%20-%20no%20wave.png/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.web.1440.810.jpeg)
World-first green hydrogen innovation wins prestigious Climate Innovation Challenge
South East Water and RMIT University's ground-breaking method for producing green hydrogen from solar radiation and recycled water has won the 2024 Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge.
The project, co-production of green hydrogen and oxidant from direct solar radiation, earned $113,000 in Victorian Government funding after taking the top honours.
This world-first technology uses a floating modular platform to convert solar radiation and recycled water into green hydrogen and valuable oxidants like ozone and hydrogen peroxide.
The project harnesses recycled water and solar power to reduce carbon emissions, tackle energy challenges, and improve water quality.
South East Water Managing Director Lara Olsen said the accolade reflects the utility’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
“We’re proud to see our innovation recognised on such a prestigious platform and we’re grateful to RMIT University for their work in delivering this submission."
“This achievement highlights the enormous potential for our industry to lead the way in addressing climate challenges.
“By transforming recycled water into clean energy and enhancing water treatment processes, this project demonstrates a real-world solution to achieving net-zero goals."
South East Water Managing Director Lara Olsen
Project Lead Dr Li Gao said the project demonstrated the true value of collaboration between universities and industry.
“The photocatalytic system is a scientific breakthrough, but it is only by working with industry partners such as South East Water that we are able convert excellent research discoveries like this into real industry and community benefits,” he said.
“We’re proud to support the water industry's leadership in this space and partnering to roll this solution out more widely in future.”
South East Water and RMIT University aim to develop the technology for future full-scale rollout across Victorian water utilities.
The latest $113,000 in funding – along with $120,000 from South East Water and $130,000 from RMIT University – will fund development of a small-scale prototype to bring the technology to life.
The floating hydrogen production system is designed to be scalable and adaptable, making it suitable for reservoirs, lagoons, and other water bodies.
The project aligns with South East Water’s 2028 Corporate Strategy to innovate with purpose, and act with care – with a focus on driving innovation at scale.
Now in its second year, the Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge is a collaboration between the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, the Intelligent Water Networks and the Minister for Water to promote innovation in the water sector.
South East Water last year received a special commendation for its project focused on monitoring emissions from aerobic digesters.