The Queensland Government is set to energise the local battery manufacturing industry with an investment in a pioneering manufacturer of long-duration energy storage systems.
Energy Storage Industries – Asia Pacific (ESI) is establishing Australia’s first manufacturing plant dedicated to grid-scale batteries at a commercial-scale facility in Maryborough.
The Miles Labor Government’s $25 million debt and equity investment has successfully attracted an additional $40 million from a UK-based investment fund, accelerating the development of this critical local industry.
Early works have commenced at the Maryborough site, which, when fully operational by mid-2029, is expected to create up to 273 full-time jobs.
ESI will enhance its manufacturing capabilities through technology licensed from Oregon-based ESS, Inc, the government said in a media statement.
This flow battery technology promises to deliver extended energy storage durations of up to 14 hours—an essential feature as the global community strives for decarbonization and increased clean energy generation.
“By partnering with local industry and attracting private capital, Queensland is well-placed to seize the incredible opportunities presented by the world’s decarbonisation,” said Cameron Dick, Deputy Premier, Treasurer, and Minister for Trade and Investment.
“Our investment in ESI is part of our commitment to firmly establish a new battery manufacturing industry right here in Queensland.
He added, “Through investments like this we meet our own future clean energy storage needs and take advantage of the massive export opportunities.”
Meanwhile, Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni, also highlighted the importance of this initiative.
“Investors are buying into Queensland’s clean economy future thanks to the Miles Government’s world leading Energy and Jobs Plan,” he stated.
“Today’s announcement of more than 270 skilled jobs in Maryborough is further proof Queensland’s decarbonisation is creating new jobs in the regions.
De Brenni contrasted the current investment climate with previous administrations, asserting, “It’s a stark contrast with the LNP who laid off Maryborough rail workers and sent their jobs overseas the last time they were in office.”
State Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders expressed his support for the initiative, saying, “Maryborough has a proud manufacturing history, and this investment ensures there will be manufacturing jobs in Maryborough for years to come.”
He added, “This investment demonstrates the Miles Labor Government’s Queensland Battery Industry Strategy is delivering the good manufacturing jobs of the future, especially in regional Queensland.”
Stuart Parry, ESI Asia Pacific Managing Director, underscored the significance of the project. “ESI is a Queensland-based, Australian-owned manufacturer of proven grid-scale battery technology that solves a key problem in the energy transition—how to provide renewable grid-scale energy overnight,” he explained.
“Thanks to this far-sighted support from Treasury and private investors, the first production of Australian-made grid-scale batteries will take place in Queensland by the end of 2025,” Parry noted.
“ESI is targeting the delivery of 400 megawatts (MW) of energy storage annually from 2029—enough to power a city the size of Toowoomba each year.”
He also emphasised the local economic impact, stating, “Importantly, key battery components will be sourced from throughout Queensland, supporting businesses and creating skilled jobs in local communities.”
