Announced at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan: ATCO Australia and GE Vernova to supply advanced hydrogen-capable gas turbines projected to generate 200 megawatts (MW) of power.
The South Australia Whyalla hydrogen plant is crucial in providing stable power support to the electricity grid of South Australia, particularly during times when solar and wind energy generation is low – marking a major progression in South Australia’s Hydrogen Jobs Plan. The state is committed to becoming a hub for renewable energy innovation by investing in technology that supports a transition to a hydrogen economy.
Whyalla, with a population of about 21,000, is located on the northeast coast of Adelaid South Australia, is historically known from the ‘40’s as the “Steel City” for integrated steelworks and shipbuilding. Whyalla Steelworks is still in production today producing high-quality steel with the ambitions to become carbon neutral by 2030.
The Whyalla plant will be equipped with the world’s first LM6000VELOX aeroderivative gas turbines from GE Vernova. These turbines are uniquely engineered to operate entirely on renewable hydrogen.
Advanced hydrogen-capable gas turbines are cutting-edge turbines designed to run on 100% hydrogen fuel. These turbines are a significant step towards cleaner energy production, as hydrogen combustion produces only water vapor, making it a zero-emission energy source2.
Key Features:
- Aeroderivative Technology: These turbines are derived from aviation jet engines, offering high efficiency and flexibility.
- Renewable Hydrogen: They can operate on renewable hydrogen produced from water using renewable energy sources like wind and solar.
- Decarbonization: By using hydrogen, these turbines help reduce carbon emissions and support the transition to a sustainable energy future.
South Australia’s entry into hydrogen energy is supported by its abundant wind and solar resources, which allow for the sustainable production and storage of renewable hydrogen. This hydrogen will be used to power the LM6000VELOX turbines, supplying reliable and clean energy to the state’s electricity grid.
The planned commissioning of the turbines is set for early 2026. This project will also become the first commercial-scale implementation of GE Vernova’s power technology using aeroderivative gas turbine combustion technology operating solely on hydrogen.
South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas said, “South Australia is at the forefront of the global shift to clean energy, and our investment in 100% hydrogen-capable technology at Whyalla sets a new standard for what’s possible.”
“By integrating this world-first technology, we are not only supporting our state’s energy security but also creating a blueprint for sustainable, hydrogen-fuelled power that the rest of the world can follow.”
“This partnership with GE Vernova, through ATCO Australia, brings us one step closer to a future powered by zero-emission hydrogen, positioning South Australia as a leader in renewable energy innovation.”
John Ivulich, CEO and Country Chair of ATCO Australia, also remarked on the region’s renewable capabilities, saying “With more than 75 percent of energy generated from renewable resources, South Australia is set to become a global leader in producing and utilising renewable hydrogen.”
Echoing these sentiments, Eric Gray, CEO of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business, referred to the ongoing research and development in enhancing GE’s combustion systems to higher hydrogen tolerance. “We are proud to unveil our first 100 percent hydrogen-ready aeroderivative gas turbine solution to support our customers’ decarbonisation goals while maintaining grid reliability,” Gray said.
ATCO has been serving Australian businesses since 1961, originally leveraging our Structures & Logistics expertise to support the resource sector in Australia, moving into the supply and management of energy in the 1990s.
Fuelled by the dedication of our team of ~6,200 people worldwide, we offer comprehensive solutions and service excellence in:
- Structures & Logistics — workforce housing, innovative modular facilities, construction, site support services, and logistics and operations management
- Energy Infrastructure – electricity generation, transmission, and distribution; natural gas transmission, distribution and infrastructure development; energy storage and industrial water solutions; and electricity and natural gas retail sales
- Transportation – ports and transportation logistics
- Commercial Real Estate
