Viva Energy has taken a bold step toward a zero-emissions transport future with the launch of Australia’s first publicly accessible renewable hydrogen refuelling station for commercial vehicles. Opened today at the Viva Energy Energy Hub in Geelong, the station is a landmark development for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and a reminder that hydrogen remains a serious contender in the race to decarbonise heavy transport.
The launch event, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Victorian Minister for Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio, marked the beginning of a new chapter in the push for cleaner transport solutions, especially in the medium and heavy vehicle segment.
A Game-Changer for Fleet Transport
Located within the company’s Energy Hub, the new hydrogen refuelling station will serve a dedicated fleet of hydrogen-powered trucks, buses and refuse vehicles operated by local businesses in the Geelong region. These zero-emission vehicles will be able to refuel quickly and reliably from a station powered by renewable hydrogen generated onsite.
The site also features fast charging infrastructure for battery electric trucks, making it a truly multi-energy hub that brings together hydrogen and electric vehicle (EV) technologies in one location. Diesel refuelling remains available, underlining Viva Energy’s strategy of supporting customers with a range of energy solutions during the transition.
Viva Energy Chief Strategy Officer Lachlan Pfeiffer said:
“By providing hydrogen as an alternative fuel, we are aiming to reduce emissions and contribute to the development of a more sustainable heavy transport sector in Australia.”
“Offering hydrogen refuelling alongside fast charging for commercial EV vehicles – and the potential for renewable diesel in the future – is recognition that we believe the pathway to net zero will require a mix of new fuels and technologies alongside traditional offerings.”
Supporting Fleet Emissions Reduction
Viva Energy’s hydrogen project is backed by a 2.5-megawatt electrolyser, currently the largest of its kind in Australia, capable of producing 1,000 kilograms of hydrogen per day. The electrolyser uses recycled water from Barwon Water’s Northern Water Plant, highlighting the project’s integration of sustainability at every step.
In a move that should give confidence to Fleet Managers and Sustainability Managers, the station’s “fast-fill” dispensing capability allows for 300 kg of hydrogen to be delivered in under two hours – enough to refuel at least 10 trucks consecutively. This provides a user experience comparable to traditional diesel refuelling, which is critical for logistics operators managing tight delivery schedules.
The hydrogen initiative was strategically designed to align supply and demand from day one. Viva Energy secured four foundation partners – Toll Group, CDC (ComfortDelGro Corporation Australia), Cleanaway, and Barwon Water – all of which have committed to operating hydrogen-powered vehicles as part of the rollout. The partners received support from ARENA to purchase the FCEVs and to participate in a live demonstration of hydrogen’s potential to cut emissions in real-world operations.
Commercial Potential and Future Growth
The Energy Hub in Geelong is designed not only to support its immediate partners but also to provide renewable hydrogen to other commercial users in the future. Viva Energy is already in talks with additional partners and expects to announce further collaborations in the coming months.
“This is part of Viva Energy’s broader strategy to diversify its energy offerings and support the growing demand for cleaner energy solutions,” said Pfeiffer. “The development of the refuelling station was only made possible through the collaboration and support of an engaged team of stakeholders, including government agencies, foundation partners and the local community.”
Public and Government Backing
The project has received strong public funding support, including a $34 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) under its Advancing Renewables Program. The Victorian Government contributed a further $1 million through the Renewable Hydrogen Commercialisation Pathways Fund. This funding helped cover the infrastructure build, the hydrogen vehicles, and the hydrogen supply system.
Fleet Manager Takeaway
For Fleet Managers, this project signals that hydrogen is not just a future possibility – it is now a viable, operational reality for Australian transport fleets. The Geelong hydrogen hub proves that with the right partnerships and infrastructure, hydrogen can be integrated into everyday logistics operations.
Importantly, Viva Energy’s multi-fuel site allows businesses to trial hydrogen alongside battery electric and diesel vehicles, enabling data-driven decision-making about the right energy mix for specific tasks and routes.
Fast Facts for Fleet and Sustainability Managers
- Electrolyser Output: 1,000 kg of renewable hydrogen per day
- Dispensing Capacity: 300 kg of hydrogen in under two hours
- Vehicle Types Supported: Prime movers, buses, rubbish trucks
- Founding Fleet Partners: Toll Group, CDC, Cleanaway, Barwon Water
- Funding: $34 million from ARENA, $1 million from Victorian Government
- Renewable Source: Hydrogen produced using recycled water
- Integration: Co-located fast charging for commercial EVs
Viva Energy’s investment in hydrogen infrastructure is a powerful signal that zero-emission transport for heavy vehicles is no longer an abstract ambition. It’s here, and it’s happening in Geelong. Hydrogen may not yet be mainstream, but it’s proving it has a meaningful role to play in the decarbonisation of Australia’s commercial fleets.
