Australia needs $100 billion and bold policies for its green energy goals, experts say. 

Australia must secure an additional $100 billion in public funding and enact comprehensive policies, along with stronger federal leadership, to achieve its ambitions as a clean energy and hydrogen superpower, two new reports reveal.

The Australian Hydrogen Council and the Centre for Policy Development (CPD) agree that government support for the clean energy transition is vital. 

However, they differ on priorities. The Hydrogen Council favours green ammonia and methanol production, while CPD questions methanol's efficiency.

Fiona Simon, CEO of the Hydrogen Council, suggests the possibility of exporting hydrogen, including “blue” hydrogen with captured carbon emissions, citing global demand. However, CPD's Toby Phillips has cast doubt on hydrogen shipping.

Both reports stress that current funding commitments, including $2 billion under the Hydrogen Headstart program, fall far short. 

Phillips estimates a need for $50 billion to $150 billion in new public support, similar to major international initiatives.

Simon argues that the $2 billion Headstart program, while sounding substantial, is insufficient for a full industry transition. She has called for bolder government action beyond incremental changes.

The Hydrogen Council's report contributes to a federal government review of the national hydrogen strategy but aligns with the broader decarbonization discussion. Hydrogen could be vital for hard-to-abate industries and grid stability.

CPD's report informs the Climate Change Authority's recommendations on Australia's 2035 emissions targets. It emphasises green exports, necessitating increased grid power, immigration, and targeted support. Contracts for difference (CFDs) could accelerate the transition.

The experts conclude that Australia's natural resources require significant public investment and coordination to develop new industries.