The NSW Government is backing a fresh group of clean technology projects with $26.2 million in grants aimed at helping local innovations move from research stage to commercial use.
Funded through the Clean Technology Innovation program, the grants support ideas that aren’t yet available in the market but show potential to reduce emissions and support NSW’s goal of reaching net zero. The program is part of the broader $275 million Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative.
Among the 13 recipients is HydGene Renewables, based in Lane Cove, which is working on a way to turn farm waste into clean hydrogen and ammonia – offering a low-emissions fuel option that can be produced directly on farms. The project received $2.5 million to demonstrate a scalable system suited to agricultural use.
Novalith Technologies, located in Alexandria, is scaling up a cleaner process for lithium extraction. This method, which avoids the use of harsh chemicals, could reduce both costs and environmental impact in battery production. The company received $1.5 million and has attracted strong private backing.
“Australia has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead the global energy transition, not just by exporting minerals, but by exporting the technology that makes them cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable to produce,” Novalith CEO and company founder Steven Vassiloudis said.
Ship-related emissions are also being tackled by Hullbot, which has secured nearly $2 million to further develop its underwater robotic hull cleaners. These robots reduce fuel use by keeping ship hulls clean without toxic coatings and also help stop invasive species from spreading.
Other initiatives include:
5B Holdings, in Mascot, developing a more efficient and transportable solar panel system.
FPR Energy, in Mayfield West, receiving $4.85 million to commercialise a solar thermal energy storage system suited for long-duration green heat and power applications.
Renewable Metals, in Muswellbrook, working on the feasibility of NSW’s first commercial lithium battery recycling facility.
Another standout is Kardinia Energy, which is building the world’s first commercial facility to manufacture Printed Solar. These flexible solar panels – already used during Coldplay’s tour – can be applied where conventional panels can’t, opening up new locations for clean energy use.
MicroTau, based in St Peters, is scaling up its sharkskin-inspired adhesive film that sticks to aircraft to reduce drag and lower fuel consumption. The innovation has the potential to cut emissions across the aviation sector.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing in the new technologies, jobs and industries that will drive our state’s transition to a low-carbon economy, create new jobs as we address the critical challenges climate change presents,” Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, said.
Each project will move through stages like design, testing, and real-world trials to prove they’re viable for market use. Grant funding ranges from $400,000 up to $5 million per project. The 13 successful recipients have also attracted a combined $46.9 million in private investment.
The projects are required to be completed by 2028 and are expected to deliver practical outcomes across NSW’s energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and transport sectors.
Applications for future rounds of the Clean Technology Innovation grants can be made through the NSW Government’s website.
