Lochard Energy to Receive ARENA Hydrogen Funding

Lochard Energy is set to receive $2 m from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) for an 18-month feasibility study to assess the technical and commercial viability of storing hydrogen underground in existing gas reservoirs near Iona, Victoria, Australia.

This is the second phase of Lochard’s H2Restore Project which aims to support Australia's National Electricity Grid (NEM) by providing long duration, seasonal hydrogen storage. Lochard has a history of supporting energy security and reliability in Victoria through owning and operating the Iona Gas Storage Facility near Port Campbell, Victoria.

The $6.3 m study will confirm technical feasibility of storing hydrogen deep underground in porous rock (sandstone), develop a concept design for an initial pilot facility, and progress planning, design, and techno-economics for a potential commercial underground hydrogen storage facility.