AUSTRALIA – Fortescue has commenced construction on its groundbreaking Christmas Creek Green Iron Metal Project in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
This historic initiative marks a significant step towards developing a green iron industry in the state, with the potential to revolutionise steel production globally.
The US$50 million project aims to produce iron using green hydrogen, making it suitable for use in steel plants worldwide.
Fortescue expects to begin green iron metal production by the end of 2025, demonstrating the viability of the technology and catalysing the next generation of Australia’s green iron industry.
Alongside the Green Iron Metal Project, Fortescue has also launched the Christmas Creek Renewable Hydrogen Mobility Project.
This $33.8 million initiative, supported by a $2 million grant from the WA government’s Renewable Hydrogen Fund, includes a hydrogen refuelling hub at Fortescue’s Green Energy Hub.
A key feature of the mobility project is the introduction of 10 hydrogen fuel-cell coaches, which have replaced Fortescue’s diesel fleet for crew transportation at Christmas Creek.
These coaches run on renewable hydrogen produced on-site through electrolysis.
The facility is expected to generate approximately 195 tonnes of renewable hydrogen annually.
This production forms part of Fortescue’s broader strategy to decarbonise its mining operations by 2030.
Dino Otranto, Fortescue‘s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the versatility of the hydrogen plant: “This renewable hydrogen plant enables us to produce gaseous and liquid hydrogen to power our mining equipment prototypes, while also refuelling our fleet of coaches at Christmas Creek.”
Western Australia’s Premier Roger Cook praised the project, stating: “WA is on its way to becoming a global clean energy powerhouse, and a major producer, user and exporter of green iron.”
The Christmas Creek Green Iron Metal Project represents a significant advancement in sustainable mining practices and demonstrates Australia’s commitment to developing clean energy solutions.
As the project progresses, it is expected to play a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of the steel industry and paving the way for a greener future in heavy industry.
