The Australian Government has invited public consultation on its $523 million Battery Breakthrough Initiative, first announced in the Federal Budget 2024-25 as part of the Future Made in Australia (FMA) project.

The initiative, to contribute to the wider National Battery Strategy, commences the government’s pathway to develop a “thriving” local battery industry across manufacturing and to secure Australia’s economy and workforce in its renewable energy transition.

The paper was designed in collaboration with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), which will also deliver the program alongside the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR).

“The clean energy transition provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to use our good ideas and natural resources to build new industries,” the Hon. Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science, said.

“Countries around the world are investing in their own ability to make things and we can’t be left behind.

“Millions of Australian homes use rooftop solar to lower their electricity bills, but only a fraction of these homes have a battery. We can do better.

“A thriving Australian battery industry will create more secure well-paid jobs and ensure we’re making the products Australians need.”

DISR and ARENA have proposed that the initiative will first focus on the production of active materials, battery cell manufacturing and battery pack assembly, but is open to feedback on the development, design and market readiness of the program.

“Energy storage technology is absolutely critical for our renewable energy future. We know that solar and wind energy can provide us the lowest cost renewable energy at scale, but we also need to be able to store it for when it is needed,” ARENA CEO, Darren Miller, said.

“The Battery Breakthrough Initiative will aim to commercialise battery manufacturing technology and processes, provide clean energy opportunities for Australia’s workforce and allow Australia to leverage its expertise in energy storage.” 

“We want to work with industry to identify where the opportunities are to supercharge Australia’s battery manufacturing sector.” 

The Battery Breakthrough Initiative will sit alongside other existing programs such as Hydrogen Headstart, Solar Sunshot, the Industry Growth Program, the National Reconstruction Fund and the Critical Minerals Facility.

Consultation will close on Monday 7 October, with the program expected to launch by late 2024 or early 2025.