NSW Government unveils design for first Hydrogen Centre of Excellence
The NSW Government has revealed the design of its first Hydrogen Centre of Excellence, aimed at equipping thousands of plumbers and gas fitters with new skills necessary for the renewable energy sector.
The NSW Hydrogen Centre of Excellence, which will be located at the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre's (PICAC) existing Glenwood site, represents a $25 million investment and is expected to train 8,250 workers in its first five years.
Scheduled to be operational by 2027, the centre will employ approximately 50 staff. PICAC, known for its effective training programs for plumbers, will own and operate the facility. This initiative highlights the collaboration between the government, industry, and unions to meet future industry demands and support NSW's economic growth through renewable energy.
The new facility will feature spacious workshops and classrooms where apprentices will receive practical training on hydrogen equipment, including electrolysers and gas fitting techniques, in addition to traditional plumbing skills. Construction of the centre will create over 500 jobs, including positions for more than 100 apprentices.
"We are delivering on a key election promise to build a centre for the next generation of plumbers, equipping them with the skills they need to work with renewable energy technologies," Premier Chris Minns said.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe added, "This facility is crucial to ensuring the workers the renewable energy industry needs have the skills required to accelerate NSW’s shift towards clean technologies and net zero."
PICAC Chief Executive Shayne La Combre reinforced the project's importance, saying, "The Hydrogen Centre of Excellence at PICAC Glenwood will provide top-tier training for apprentices and workers in the plumbing and fire protection industry, preparing them for opportunities in new and emerging fields such as hydrogen."
The investment is part of the NSW Government’s efforts to ensure a pipeline of skilled workers ready to support the state’s transition to renewable energy technologies.
