The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has unveiled the first $550 million of the federal government's Solar Sunshot program, a $1 billion initiative designed to strengthen Australia's solar PV manufacturing industry and enhance its role in the global renewable energy supply chain. This funding is a key step in advancing solar innovation and creating a resilient domestic solar manufacturing sector.

Darren Miller, Chief Executive Officer of ARENA, emphasized that the program will offer production subsidies and grants to Australian businesses, aiming to drive scale and diversity in the solar 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," Miller said.

The initial $550 million investment is divided into two parts: Round 1A, with $500 million dedicated to scaling up solar panel manufacturing, and Round 1B, which allocates $50 million for feasibility and engineering studies to further develop solar production capabilities.

Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen highlighted the importance of bringing solar manufacturing to Australia, noting that currently, only about 1% of the solar panels installed in the country are domestically produced. "Diverse, secure, and resilient supply chains are crucial for our future as a renewable energy superpower," Bowen said.

Applications for the first round of funding are now open, with ARENA evaluating proposals based on merit. Deadlines for submissions are set for April 30, 2025, for Round 1A, and November 12, 2025, for Round 1B.

Source: pv-magazine-australia.com