Western Australian businesses aiming to be part of the growing local wind energy manufacturing supply chain can now apply for funding through the newly launched Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program.
The program, a collaboration between the Western Australian Government and the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC), offers up to 50 per cent co-investment for eligible project costs, with $8 million allocated by the WA Government to support local businesses’ capacity and capability in wind energy and manufacturing.
Priority areas for funding include the production of wind tower foundations, anchor cages, nacelle components and assembly, transmission poles, and specialised trailers for transport, AMGC said in a media release.
Additionally, the program will focus on enhancing the capacity for replacement parts, servicing, and refurbishing centres.
Science Minister for Western Australia, Stephen Dawson, highlighted the program as part of the State’s commitment to a sustainable future.
“The Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program is a testament to our commitment to creating a sustainable future for Western Australia. Supporting local businesses to engage in the wind energy supply chains positions the State to reap the benefits of the energy transition while also supporting our economic diversification,” Dawson said.
“This funding will play a crucial role in enhancing our State’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.”
The program features two funding streams: the Market Entry Stream and the Market Growth Stream.
The Market Entry Stream, designed for businesses in the early stages, supports projects such as accreditation upgrades, niche software development, and process improvements.
With project sizes ranging from $20K to $60K, this stream offers co-investment contributions of $10K to $30K.
The Market Growth Stream, which focuses on enhancing capacity and capability, supports larger-scale projects with capital and operational expenditure, such as plant and equipment upgrades and R&D initiatives.
This stream, with project sizes ranging from $500K to $1 million, provides co-investment contributions of $250K to $500K, covering up to 25 per cent of the total project cost.
Dr Jens Goennemann, Managing Director of AMGC, emphasised the potential for local manufacturers in the wind energy sector.
“Western Australia is home to very skilled manufacturers currently engaging in the mining, minerals, and energy space. The Wind Energy Manufacturing Co-Investment Program will focus on identifying local capabilities that can be turned towards opportunities in wind energy generation,” said Goennemann.
“In doing so, the WA Government and manufacturers will develop a broader, more capable manufacturing base while serving domestic renewable energy needs.”
Applications for the program will be open continuously and will remain competitive until the funding is exhausted.
Manufacturers interested in applying can register for in-person information sessions, view written guidelines, and access a pre-recorded webinar at AMGC’s Wind Energy Program page.
Program details, eligibility criteria, and the application portal can also be found at www.amgc.org.au/wind-energy-program/.
