CQUniversity joins Future Energy Export Cooperative Research Centre to drive decarbonisation innovation
CQUniversity has joined the Future Energy Export Cooperative Research Centre (FEnEx CRC), strengthening its commitment to helping decarbonise Australia’s energy export industry.
Established in 2020 with $163 million in cash and in-kind contributions, the FEnEx CRC develops technologies and skills to help Australia’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) and emerging hydrogen industries transition to a low-carbon future.
CQUniversity’s involvement will focus on leveraging its Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy (CHRE) in Gladstone, aligning with regional and national efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of energy exports from the Port of Gladstone.
CQUniversity Chair in Hydrogen Professor Jonathan Love said joining the FEnEx CRC was a natural step for the University given its strong industry connections and expertise in hydrogen research and training.
“Gladstone is already a powerhouse for Australia’s energy exports and through this partnership we’ll play a key role in supporting industry to decarbonise and remain globally competitive,” Professor Love said.
“By collaborating with the FEnEx CRC and its partners, we’ll help advance research that supports sustainable energy export pathways while building capability in regional Queensland.”
As part of the partnership, Dr Saif Al Ghafri, CQUniversity Principal Research Fellow within the CHRE, has been appointed as the Queensland program lead for FEnEx CRC’s LNG and hydrogen programs.
Dr Al Ghafri joined CQUniversity in April 2025, bringing nearly a decade of research experience working alongside FEnEx CRC Chief Executive Officer Professor Eric May. He has been involved in the CRC since its establishment and has a strong track record of collaboration with industry partners.
The first project CQUniversity plans to take part in through the CRC is Hybrid Intermetallic Materials for Enhanced Hydrogen Liquefaction and Ortho-Para Conversion, valued at $700,500 and involving QUT, UWA, the Queensland Government (DSDILGP) and HyperTech. The project aims to develop new materials to improve the liquefaction efficiency of natural gas, carbon dioxide and hydrogen.
FEnEx CRC CEO Professor Eric May said CQUniversity’s involvement brought valuable regional connections and applied research capability to the CRC.
“We’re pleased to welcome CQUniversity as a member of the FEnEx CRC,” Professor May said.
“The University’s presence in Gladstone and strong relationships with industry will help extend our research impact into one of Australia’s most significant energy export hubs.”
Dr Al Ghafri will work alongside CHRE Director Paul Hodgson, Professor Jonathan Love, and other Gladstone-based researchers, including Dr Michael Opolot and Dr Xin Chang, who are exploring new projects with local industry and CRC partners.
Through this collaboration, CQUniversity aims to support the Gladstone region’s transition toward low-carbon exports, helping Queensland maintain its economic strength as global markets move toward net zero emissions.
FEnEx CRC research is supported by a grant from the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science and Resources through the CRC program. More at FEnEx Website.
