ARIZONA – Fortescue began a new phase in the development of its green hydrogen production project in the United States, where it is making a US$550 million investment. The company held a ground conversion ceremony and renamed the Buckeye facility Arizona Hydrogen.
On May 2, Fortescue CEO and Founder Dr. Andrew Forrest AO was joined by local government, economic development and community leaders. At the 158-acre facility, Forrest praised the Biden Administration’s commitment to the energy transition, but cautioned that there is still work to be done.
“The United States has made great strides in attracting global investment in green hydrogen and decarbonization projects, such as the Fortescue solar and wind hydrogen facility in Arizona. Fortescue is an undisputed pioneer in this area, and the world needs us to move quickly,” Forrest said.
According to new economic data from NDP Analytics, during the two-year construction phase, Arizona Hydrogen has the potential to create up to 2,244 direct, indirect and induced jobs that could earn US$124.2 million in wages. The facility could add US$187.8 million to Arizona’s GDP and generate a potential US$31.7 million in income and sales taxes for state and local governments.
During the operation phase, Arizona Hydrogen is expected to employ 40 people at the facility itself, as part of a potential 431 direct, indirect and induced jobs that could earn US$29.3 million in wages. In addition, the company could contribute US$59.2 million to Arizona’s GDP and generate US$9.1 million annually in income and sales taxes for state and local governments.
“Buckeye is pleased to welcome Arizona Hydrogen to the Sustainable Valley. Fortescue’s investment in our community helps Buckeye, and the entire state of Arizona, continue to grow efficiently and sustainably for generations to come,” said Mayor Eric Orsborn.
Arizona Hydrogen is slated to produce up to 11,000 tons annually of liquid green hydrogen and is strategically positioned to contribute significantly to the decarbonization of the heavy-duty trucking sector.
The Southwest market consumes approximately 5 billion gallons of diesel per year in heavy-duty transportation, making PHH a vital player in reducing emissions in the mobility sector.
