Black & Veatch has joined the Australian Hydrogen Council (AHC) as part of its efforts to accelerate the global shift to zero emission energy and speed the development of a global H₂ energy economy.

“One of the strengths of the AHC was the breadth and depth of its membership which included global firms like Black & Veatch,” said CEO of the AHC, Dr Fiona Simon. “As a leading advocate in countries across the globe of decarbonization through transitioning to hydrogen, Black & Veatch brings further knowledge and experience to our membership and we are delighted to have it onboard.”

“Hydrogen and ammonia will be critical factors in decarbonizing the world’s energy systems, supply chains and heavy industries. Robust collaboration between engineering leaders, such as Black & Veatch, and industry organizations, such as the Australian Hydrogen Council, will help realize Australia’s ambitions to supply green ammonia to the Asian and domestic markets,” said Mick Scrivens, Vice President, Director, Australia Pacific, Black & Veatch.

H₂ has the potential to reduce and replace reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation as well as long duration energy storage, heating, transport, production of green chemicals and fertilizer. Additionally, H₂ can be turned into green ammonia, which is produced using 100% carbon-free renewable energy.

Ammonia, a liquid chemical consisting of nitrogen and H₂, is more energy dense than pure H₂, incredibly stable and easily liquified for storage and shipment around the globe in the same fashion as LNG.

Ammonia then can be used in multiple energy-intensive industries to produce low-carbon electricity.

It can also serve as an energy storage medium, be burned directly as a carbon-free, emissions-free energy source, or cracked to convert it back into H₂ as an energy carrier.

Converting the world’s extensive LNG infrastructure – its LNG receiving terminals and storage facilities – will help facilitate the safe, efficient shipping of ammonia.

According to Black & Veatch’s 2022 Asia Electric Report, 73% of respondents believe that H₂ will help meet carbon emissions goals beyond 10 years from now – more than any other technology.

Industry analysts anticipate that Australia will account for more than 10% of global carbon-free ammonia supply by 2035.

“Black & Veatch has an 80-year history working with hydrogen and ammonia production in multiple industries. With expertise in all stages of hydrogen infrastructure projects – from technical advisory services and design through operations – we continue to support global decarbonization programs, including those in Australia,” said Scrivens.

The AHC is the peak body for the H₂ industry in Australia, with members from across the H₂ value chain, including vehicle manufacturers, energy companies, infrastructure providers, research organizations and governments.