Two Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) bids from the University of Adelaide’s Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Resources have progressed to the next stage of the selection process for federal government funding.
Bids for the Copper for Tomorrow and Scaling Green Hydrogen CRCs are now entering stage two of the funding process. Only six bids have been approved by Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic to go to the next stage of the Round 24 bidding process.
The proposed Copper for Tomorrow CRC seeks to convene industry and researchers who will work together to develop the Australian copper industry’s role in a global net zero future.
The copper industry is faced with the challenge of closing the gap between copper endowment ad production levels without inflicting adverse impacts on the environment. This comes as forecasts predict a looming supply shortfall.
In a media release, the University of Adelaide said there is an opportunity to produce Australian copper that can be certified as low-emission, low-water “green” copper.
“Australia is well placed to lead the development of these technologies and methods and take them to a global market through the vibrant Australian mining, equipment, technology and services METS sector,” the university said.
Meanwhile, the Scaling Green Hydrogen CRC eyes becoming the largest initiative in Australia to focus on supporting the vital expansion of the emerging Australian green hydrogen sector.
The centre will help de-risk the transition through collaboration and government co-funding.
The CRC grants provide funding for medium to long-term, industry-led research collaborations. The federal government is slated to release results for the selection process in December 2023.
