- Fortescue Metals, led by Andrew Forrest, has withdrawn its plans to establish a green hydrogen and ammonia hub in Darwin, Northern Territory, due to a shift in focus towards international projects.
- The decision reflects broader uncertainties in the region’s development as a green energy hub, amidst debates over the sustainability of the Middle Arm industrial precinct and its mix of proposed projects.
Fortescue Metals has officially relinquished its ambitions to create a green hydrogen and ammonia production facility in the Middle Arm industrial hub near Darwin, Northern Territory. The Australian mining titan confirmed the withdrawal, which aligns with previous indications that the company was reassessing its investment in the project after disengaging local staff last year.
The move to forego the allocated land, which was designated for a major sustainable development initiative, was precipitated by discussions with the Northern Territory Government regarding the projected development timeline. “Fortescue’s ‘Do not Deal’ commitment at Middle Arm expired at the end of May 2024, and following discussions regarding our global pipeline of green hydrogen projects, the commitment was not extended,” a Fortescue spokesperson stated to Renew Economy.
This decision follows Forrest’s departure from the ambitious Sun Cable solar project in the NT, due to strategic disagreements with co-investor Mike Cannon-Brookes, highlighting a broader shift in Fortescue’s focus towards more supported international green initiatives. Despite this, Fortescue still considers the Middle Arm Sustainable Development Precinct an attractive long-term location for green projects.
The cancellation represents a setback for the Northern Territory’s aspirations to transform Middle Arm into a significant green energy hub. The precinct has been controversial, criticized by environmental groups for its fossil fuel support and deemed unsuitable due to its distance from essential infrastructure. Additionally, the role of Tamboran Resources and its LNG export plans at Middle Arm further complicates the precinct’s green credentials.
Despite Fortescue’s withdrawal, the NT government remains optimistic, hinting at potential new parties interested in filling the vacancy left by Fortescue, though specifics about these parties and the nature of their industries have not been disclosed.
Read the most up to date Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Industry news at FuelCellsWorks
