On 20 October 2023, the Allan Labor Government took a major step forward in strengthening the resilience of mobile networks in five regional areas of Victoria that experienced disruption following the severe storms of 2021. The Government's initiative includes supporting the development of innovative renewable energy technologies.
An investment of more than $1.1 million has been announced for Telstra to initiate the Telstra Hydrogen Fuel Cell Pilot Project. This project aims to improve energy resilience in areas including Coldstream, Kinglake, Christmas Hills, Chum Creek and Neerim North. The project will see the installation of a 10 kilowatt renewable hydrogen generator at each of these sites. These generators will provide a seamless transition during power outages, ensuring continuous site load operation and mobile connectivity.
The renewable hydrogen systems deployed through the Telstra Hydrogen Fuel Cell Pilot Project will provide an impressive 72 hours of back-up power, far exceeding the capabilities of current battery back-up systems in these regions. The initiative serves to demonstrate the reliability of renewable hydrogen as a zero-emissions fuel for backup power generation, eliminating the need for traditional diesel generators.
Funding for this project has been allocated from the $6.6 million Renewable Hydrogen Commercialisation Pathways Fund, which supports real-world applications exploring the use of renewable hydrogen. This effort aligns with the Government's Gas Substitution Roadmap, which will be updated later this year, and highlights the critical role of renewable hydrogen in Victoria's transition to renewable energy.
In addition, the Renewable Hydrogen Business Ready Fund has awarded more than $600,000 to eight recipients. This funding will support the development of business cases and feasibility studies to facilitate the transition of these businesses to renewable hydrogen. These initiatives mark a significant step in the development of renewable gases, which are key to achieving Victoria's ambitious goal of net zero emissions by 2045.