Our R&D Programs.
We will address our core challenges and priorities over three integrated, industry-led R&D programs, enabled by investments in testing infrastructure and workforce development program.
R&D Program 1.
Manufacturing of renewable technology commodities and products.
Themes:
Manufacturing of critical renewable technology commodities from Australian critical minerals.
Manufacturing of renewable energy technology products and systems.
Recycling of renewable technologies for circular supply chains.
Indicative outcomes:
Economic benefit through value-adding to our critical minerals.
Connected, sustainable domestic supply chains for critical renewable technology commodities and products with local off-take and high export potential.
Reduced-cost recycled chemical feedstocks and domestic recycling capabilities for circular supply chains.
R&D Program 2.
Renewable technology testing, deployment and integration.
Themes:
Accelerated testing for adoption of renewable technologies.
Grid integration and control systems.
Modelling, optimisation and deployment for regional/remote microgrids.
Indicative outcomes:
Nationally distributed common-user testing capacity.
Prove out and knowledge on performance for new and emerging critical renewable technologies.
Best practice guidelines and standardised testing methods for reliable critical renewable technology deployment.
R&D Program 3.
Safety testing, accreditation and standards for renewable technologies.
Themes:
Safety testing for renewable technology adoption.
Standards and accreditation for renewable technologies.
Indicative outcomes:
Safe rollout of lithium batteries through the developed Battery Accreditation program.
Lithium battery systems with enhanced safety.
Accredited domestic battery and critical renewable technology certification services.
Best practice guides and fit-for-purpose Standards.
Evidence-based emergency response procedures.
A national working group consisting of experts, energy generators/distributors/transmitters and battery manufactures.
Policy and regulation recommendations.
Workforce Development Program.
We will address escalating industry workforce demands and skills gaps in conjunction with our partners.
Key initiatives:
Programs to connect vocational training institutions with universities and facilities to enable practical exposure to and training with renewable technologies.
Establish national training curriculums in battery energy storage and redox flow batteries to standardise delivery.
Create training programs to enable Indigenous Australians to service and maintain renewable technology microgrids in remote areas and Indigenous communities.
Industry Fellowship Program to place skilled researchers into industry.
Top-up scholarship programs that attracts quality candidates to work with industry.
Reskilling programs, including placements and internships to expedite skill and knowledge development needed for new roles in clean energy.
Programs, short courses and engagement activities aimed to upskill, promote career opportunities and attract workers to renewable technology jobs.
Customised community education programs about the safety, reliability and benefits of different renewable technologies and systems.