The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) announced $59.1 million in funding for 21 research projects aimed at advancing renewable hydrogen and low emissions iron and steel technologies.
This funding, provided by the Australian Government, underscores a commitment to research and development (R&D) initiatives crucial for transitioning to a low-carbon future, the agency said in a news release.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller highlighted the importance of supporting early-stage R&D to drive innovation in renewable energy.
“We’re backing Australian technological innovation that helps build our clean industries and underpins our ambitions of becoming a renewable energy superpower,” he noted.
Initially, ARENA revealed that $25 million was allocated for each of the two funding rounds – Renewable Hydrogen and Iron & Steel.
However, due to the exceptional quality of applications received, the agency increased the total funding to $59.1 million. Grant amounts for successful applicants range between $1.3 million and $5 million.
The funding will be disbursed over two stages, with an emphasis on both core research and commercialisation.
Miller underscored ARENA’s commitment to supporting projects that contribute to job creation, emissions reduction, and more affordable energy for Australians.
According to the agency, Australia, as the largest exporter of iron ore globally, holds a crucial role in the decarbonisation of the iron and steel industry.
The Iron & Steel R&D round also aims to revolutionise emissions abatement pathways in the production of these essential materials, fostering collaboration between research groups and industry stakeholders.
