Ricardo, a global strategic, environmental, and engineering consulting company, was honored to host Her Excellency Vicki Treadell CMG, MVO the British High Commissioner to Australia, at its Adelaide office this week. This visit, one of Her Excellency’s final engagements as High Commissioner, before her posting to Australia concludes, coincided with a discussion on the on the opportunities and challenges of H₂ in the Australian market.

The discussion coincided with the release of a comprehensive report, written and presented by Xodus, a leading energy consultancy, which explores the role of H₂ as a key driver of Australia’s energy transition and its global clean energy landscape, as well as Australia’s potential to become a global H₂ leader, leveraging its abundant renewable resources and export infrastructure.

The High Commissioner said, “The UK was the first major economy to commit to net zero by 2050 and is in prime position to support and partner with countries like Australia to help deliver their energy transition. The low carbon H₂ market is still in its formative stages but with strong ambition from both countries to decarbonize their industries, the step toward a cleaner, greener future is brought closer by collaboration in research, development and subsequently the implementation of projects in this exciting sector.”

Among its key findings, the report highlights that H₂ offers significant opportunities for decarbonizing domestic industries and supplying international markets. However, collaboration between government, industry, and communities—alongside international partnerships—will be critical to driving affordability, innovation, and social readiness. The study stressed the importance of strategic action to ensure H₂ plays a transformative role in Australia’s energy transition while supporting economic growth and community well-being.

Ricardo’s Director for Australia & New Zealand, Chris Hewitson commented, “It was a privilege to host Her Excellency Vicki Treadell at our offices. Ricardo has been at the forefront of the energy transition in the UK and Europe, and we are bringing those insights to Australia. Our role as consultants is to help clients navigate the path to net zero—prioritizing affordability while ensuring that sustainable energy solutions drive economic growth and improve quality of life.”