The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has launched the $500 million Battery Breakthrough Initiative (BBI), a program aimed at building domestic capacity in battery technology and manufacturing.
The BBI is part of the federal government’s Future Made in Australia agenda and sits at the centre of the National Battery Strategy. The scheme has been developed in consultation with the Department of Industry, Science and Resources as well as a wide range of stakeholders.
ARENA has said the initiative is designed not only to fund individual projects but also to help bring new technologies and processes to commercial scale, while supporting Australia’s workforce and creating more manufacturing opportunities in clean energy.
Funding will be directed across three focus areas:
- Active materials – projects linked to producing cathode materials, anode materials and electrolytes used in electrochemical batteries.
- Battery cell manufacturing – support for the manufacture of cells and related components.
- Battery pack assembly – projects bringing together cells or modules into packs, including flow battery stacks.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller said energy storage is an essential part of the energy transition.
“Energy storage is a critical enabling technology for our renewable energy future. We know that solar and wind energy can provide us the lowest cost renewable energy generation at scale, but we also need to be able to store it for when it is needed.”
The initiative will provide funding in several forms, including capital grants and production incentives. ARENA noted that projects will be assessed on merit, with the program staying open until the $500 million is fully allocated or unless it is extended or closed.
Mr Miller said the program aims to help create a stronger local manufacturing base.
“BBI will enhance Australia’s battery manufacturing capability, improve supply chain resilience and battery manufacturing processes, and foster innovation,” Miller said.
ARENA will hold two public webinars in September to explain eligibility and funding arrangements. Although the submission portal is open, the agency has encouraged interested parties to make contact before submitting applications.
