The Albanese Government has unveiled its National Battery Strategy to enhance domestic battery manufacturing capabilities.

The initiative seeks to position Australia as a key player in the burgeoning battery industry.

The government says global demand for batteries is expected to quadruple by 2030. 

The strategy outlines a number of strategic opportunities to capitalise on this demand.

It calls for the development of Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to support renewable energy generation for the national grid, as well as for communities, businesses, and homes.

The strategy also seeks to improve Australia’s processing of raw minerals into battery components to strengthen supply chains and provide battery active materials to the global market.

Additionally, it says Australia’s expertise should be leveraged to manufacture safer, more secure batteries connected to the grid, and for the transport manufacturing sector, including heavy vehicles.

Funding for the strategy, detailed in the recent budget, includes significant investments aimed at fostering innovation and scaling up production. 

The allocations include $523.2 million for the Battery Breakthrough Initiative, administered by ARENA, to enhance manufacturing capabilities through production incentives.

There is also $20.3 million for the Building Future Battery Capabilities scheme, which supports advanced battery research, the Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre, and the Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre for workforce skills and training.

Additionally, the budget includes a $1.7 billion for the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund, also administered by ARENA, to accelerate the deployment of innovative technologies in clean energy manufacturing.

More information on the National Battery Strategy is accessible here.