FFI to establish hydrogen technology hub in Colorado

Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) has announced it will expand its US presence and strengthen its position as a global developer of green energy technology through the establishment of a Technology Hub in the state of Colorado.

The company says the hub, which will potentially create more than 150 local jobs, will bring together experts from leading Colorado universities and institutions, including the US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

FFI will develop green hydrogen and green energy innovations and technology, with a specific focus on decarbonising hard-to-abate industries that can be commercialised fast. More importantly, the Technology Hub will facilitate latest technologies into the manufacturing centres which FFI is now contemplating due to the successful passage of the US legislation, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

“Fortescue is building a worldwide tech network to encourage scientists and engineers from across the globe to advance research and development,” said Fortescue Executive Chairman Andrew Forrest. “FFI will rapidly commercialise the technology we build here to achieve real-world outcomes. That is where the IRA will give us the horsepower we need to bring this cutting-edge research into reality.

“America is the world’s deepest innovation ecosystem, and now the best place for green hydrogen investment following the passing of the IRA.”

Colorado was selected from a number of potential locations due to its world-leading research and development (R&D) institutions, vibrant innovation ecosystem and quality of life, which makes it an attractive destination for the best talent in the USA.

“This exciting announcement brings good-paying jobs to Coloradans, builds upon our work to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2040 and reflects Colorado’s role as a global hub for innovation,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

“Colorado offers a forward-thinking regulatory and policy environment and FFI looks forward to capitalising upon some of the best and brightest minds in the United States,” said FFI CEO Mark Hutchinson. “There is significant global demand for the green energy and green hydrogen FFI will produce, and for the new technology it is developing.

“Fortescue’s tech web will sow and harvest the best talent and stretch across the globe, with teams already set up in Australia, UK and Europe.”

The state of Colorado awarded incentives totalling US$1.996 million to support the establishment of the Hub and the creation of jobs in the green energy industry.