Victoria’s journey toward a net-zero future is advancing with the government’s new investment in local manufacturers, empowering them to create essential components for renewable energy infrastructure.
Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins announced that four manufacturing businesses will collectively receive over $1 million in funding through the Made in Victoria – Energy Technologies Manufacturing Program.
This investment will equip these companies with new tools and technology to expand their production capacities in support of Victoria’s transition to zero emissions, as revealed in a news release.
“We’re helping some of our most innovative local manufacturers to be part of the growing renewables sector, create new jobs, and drive economic growth right across the state,” said Minister Hutchins.
The funding initiative is projected to create 13 new jobs while enabling these companies to expand their offerings within the renewable energy sector.
Among the funding recipients is PowerPlus Energy, a Scoresby-based company that specializes in energy storage technology.
This grant will allow PowerPlus to enhance and automate the production of lithium-ion batteries, supporting Victoria’s transition to renewable energy while creating seven new jobs at the facility.
“These grants will back manufacturers to contribute towards the net zero transition by increasing their capacity to manufacture key products and technology for renewable energy generation,” added Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio.
Victoria’s ambitious climate goals include a 40 per cent renewables target by 2025 and achieving 95 per cent renewable electricity by 2035, paving the way for the state to hit net zero by 2045.
By strengthening local manufacturing, this initiative also aims to reduce reliance on international supply chains for renewable energy components.
PowerPlus Energy CEO Bradley Paton noted the grant’s impact on local production, saying, “This grant is playing a vital role in supporting our growth, enabling future facility upgrades, and strengthening our contribution to the state’s manufacturing infrastructure. It will also firmly position PowerPlus Energy at the forefront of renewable technology production right here at home.”
For a full list of Made in Victoria – Energy Technologies Manufacturing program recipients, visit business.vic.gov.au.
