The federal and WA governments have finalised a $140 million agreement for a hydrogen hub in the Pilbara.

The announcement is part of the federal government’s Regional Hydrogen Hubs program, which is investing in hubs at regional locations including Kwinana, Gladstone, Townsville, Bell Bay, Port Bonython, and the Hunter.

Construction at Pilbara will start this year with plans to have the hub operational in mid 2028 as a centre for hydrogen production and driver of green steel and iron exports.

The federal government hopes the hub will position the Pilbara as a future producer and exporter of clean energy, as well as mining giant.

“WA is already a global mining and export powerhouse, and it’s now primed to become a world-leading hydrogen supplier as well,” climate change and energy minister Chris Bowen said.

WA Premier Roger Cook says the hub is a key part of the state government’s ambition to turn WA into a global clean energy powerhouse.

“This project will be WA-produced hydrogen on Asia’s doorstep, helping to strengthen and diversify our economy for the future.”

The commonwealth and state governments will provide  $70 million each to build infrastructure to support hydrogen exports and renewable energy production.

The investment will also fund the establishment of a Clean Energy Training and Research Institute which will provide training to Pilbara residents.

The project will take place in on the traditional lands of the Ngarluma and Kariyarra people. This also includes Murujuga, where the traditional custodians are represented by the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation.