The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has launched the first phase of the $1 billion Solar Sunshot programme to boost innovation in the country’s solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing industry.
Announced by the Australian Government in March, the programme’s guidelines were developed after extensive consultation. ARENA CEO Darren Miller stated that the initiative aims to foster innovation to scale and diversify a critical industry.
“Solar electricity will be the foundation of Australia’s future energy supply and the key to our net zero and renewable energy superpower ambitions. We need to build on our history of innovation and extend this into manufacturing across the solar supply chain. The demand for solar required to meet our net zero and renewable energy superpower goals is immense and Australia has the opportunity to build resilience and unlock long-term economic opportunity,” Miller said.
Two funding rounds were launched, totaling $550 million. Round 1A, with a $500 million allocation, targets innovation in solar PV manufacturing, focusing on modules, their components, and deployment systems. Round 1B offers $50 million for feasibility and engineering studies in solar PV manufacturing.
Australia’s strengths in renewable energy potential, abundant raw materials, and excellence in R&D position it well to benefit from this initiative. The Solar Sunshot programme aims to capitalise on these advantages to diversify supply chains and create economic opportunities.
The applications for this programme developed in collaboration with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), industry, and other stakeholders, are now open. ARENA will host an information webinar for potential applicants in the coming weeks. . Future funding rounds under the Solar Sunshot programme are expected to be announced from mid-2025.