TEN/1529 Supply and Delivery of two (2) hydrogen powered refuse compactor trucks

Summary and scope

Bundaberg Regional Council (BRC) is seeking submissions for supply and delivery of hydrogen powered waste refuse/compactor trucks. Bundaberg is considered the food bowl capital of Australia, producing a large portion of Australia’s fresh produce. It is also internationally recognized by iconic Australian brands such as Bundaberg Rum, Bundaberg Sugar and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks (to name a few). With a perfect climate and a spirit of innovation – Bundaberg is Australia’s best kept secret. Innovation goes hand in hand with sustainability and the circular economy, particularly in the agricultural sector. What was previously known as ‘waste’ has now become a commodity with value. In the Bundaberg region ‘waste’ comes in many forms such as crop waste, brewers waste, agricultural plastics to name a few. The circular economy is not a new premise – however with carbon emissions reduction targets being set and 2030 just around the corner, BRC have decided to embrace the circular economy and make changes now that will assist us to reach that target. With the abundance of ‘waste’ accessible in the Bundaberg region, the opportunity to use it as a feedstock is clear. In February 2021, BRC facilitated the region’s first ‘Bundaberg & Wide-Bay Bio-hydrogen Technology Cluster Group’ meeting. Since the initial meeting, the group has met on a quarterly basis and attendance has grown to over 60 at the latest meeting. The attendance ranges from industry proponents with technical hydrogen expertise to potential industry users wanting to learn how to obtain hydrogen as a fuel. Council wishes to further understand what the market capability is for bio-hydrogen and hydrogen powered waste refuse trucks. Through the form of the Cluster Group, industry consultation has occurred in regard to the needs and willingness to take part in the offtake of hydrogen and the associated vehicles. Council’s overall objective is for the commencement of both a bio-hydrogen and hydrogen powered fleet industry; with local jobs and further economic outcomes for the region. Council conducted a public Expression of Interest in January 2022, in which suppliers were shortlisted for this selected Tender approach.