The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has launched a $500 million initiative aimed at strengthening battery manufacturing in Australia and supporting the nation’s clean energy transition.
The Battery Breakthrough Initiative (BBI) will provide funding to projects that advance battery technology and production, including active materials, battery cell manufacturing, and battery pack assembly, the agency said in a news release.
ARENA said the program is intended to foster innovation, improve supply chain resilience, and enhance local manufacturing capability.
ARENA Chief Executive Officer Darren Miller said energy storage is essential for Australia’s renewable energy future.
“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,” Miller said.
He added that the initiative will play a direct role in building Australia’s manufacturing strength. “BBI will enhance Australia’s battery manufacturing capability, improve supply chain resilience and battery manufacturing processes, and foster innovation.”
The program forms part of the National Battery Strategy and was developed in consultation with the Department of Industry, Science and Resources as well as a wide range of stakeholders.
ARENA noted that the BBI also aligns with the Economic Resilience and Security stream of the federal government’s Future Made in Australia policy agenda.
Funding may be awarded in the form of capital grants, production incentives, or other payments deemed appropriate by ARENA.
The agency said program guidelines are available on its website, with the submission portal scheduled to open in August 2025.
“The BBI is designed to provide opportunities for Australia’s workforce in clean energy manufacturing and help ensure we can leverage our expertise in battery energy storage,” Miller said.
According to ARENA, the program will remain open until funding is exhausted or until otherwise extended or terminated. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the agency before submitting proposals.
