'Line that learns': Hysata launches AI-enabled project in Port Kembla

It’s been a big week for Hysata. 

Last Friday, the Port Kembla-based clean-tech company scooped three accolades at the Illawarra Business Awards. Today, the company announced the launch of HysataFab, an AI-enabled manufacturing line supported by $49 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

Developed from research originating at the University of Wollongong, the project is expected to create about 40 new manufacturing, engineering and technical jobs in the Illawarra, the Australian Government announced today.

HysataFab powered by AI

“At Hysata, we build electrolysers," Hysata CEO Paul Barrett said in a video statement.  "Electrolysers are machines that split water, H2O, into hydrogen and oxygen. We figured out a way to do that using 20% less energy than anyone else in the world. So we've got this really differentiated electrolyser that we're mass producing here in Australia.

"So Hysata exists to help our customers lower the cost of green hydrogen, and we're targeting sectors such as steel manufacture, chemical manufacture such as ammonia and methanol, refining, and feedstock for things like aviation fuels and shipping at sea.

"We're here today to launch HysataFab, which is our flagship manufacturing platform that enables us to scale this technology efficiently and globally. And sitting behind that is a really powerful AI engine.

"Importantly, it's a line that learns."

'Economic opportunity'

Having raised $220 million from global investors, Hysata is matching the government grant in the new $98 million project, which aims establish commercial-scale manufacturing of its technology.

“This project is a major jobs and economic opportunity for the Illawarra and helps ensure Australia makes more of the clean-energy technology the world needs," said Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen.

“Hysata’s electrolyser can help reduce the cost of hydrogen production and decarbonise energy-intensive sectors like steel, fertiliser and heavy transport.”

The Energy Minister attended today's launch at Hysata’s premises in Port Kembla along with NSW Senator Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation, and Illawarra federal Labor members Alison Byrnes and Carol Berry.

The government is backing local jobs, innovation and "a Future Made in the Illawarra", Cunningham MP Alison Byrnes said.

“Hysata is a true local success story – born from University of Wollongong research, backed by government and now delivering to customers around the globe.

“Together with our investments in Sicona, Gravitas, BlueScope and more, we’re building an advanced manufacturing network that is putting our region on the world stage.”

'Incredible team' behind awards

Hysata won three categories at last Friday's Illawarra Business Awards: Excellence in Innovation, Employer of Choice (21+ employees) and Excellence in Large Business (100+ employees).

CEO Paul Barrett said Hysata's first customer order this year was “a huge milestone" that belongs to the team. "We really have an incredible team and culture here at Hysata.

“We've been lucky to be able to handpick talent globally. We actually have 30 different nationalities here at Hysata. So, while we're in Australia, we could be in Silicon Valley, or we could be somewhere in Europe.”