Related article: Sparc Hydrogen progresses pilot plant development

The provisional patent application has been submitted by Sparc on the back of more than 12 months of work with the University of Adelaide investigating alternate substrates, coating methods and delivery systems within photocatalytic water-splitting (PWS) reactors.

Initial proof of concept has been achieved with an analogue photocatalyst material demonstrating the potential to improve the current methods for coating and delivery of particulate photocatalysts to achieve higher solar to hydrogen efficiencies and lower operating costs through increased durability and better handling.

The majority of this work has been completed at the University of Adelaide with funding from Sparc Technologies.

Sparc managing director Nick O’Loughlin said, “The lodgement of this provisional patent application is significant not just insofar as the technology’s potential to improve the cost and efficiency of photocatalytic water splitting systems, but also the synergies it demonstrates between Sparc’s coatings and polymers expertise being applied to uplift the value of its investment in Sparc Hydrogen.

“Results in the lab are very encouraging and given the nascent stage of the PWS industry there is strong potential to deliver a highly relevant and complementary platform technology protected by IP which is 100% owned by Sparc Technologies.”

Sparc Hydrogen’s utilisation of PWS technology is set apart from conventional approaches to produce green hydrogen. Crucially, PWS does not rely on renewable energy sources such as solar or wind farms, nor expensive electrolysers, to produce hydrogen from water. This addresses a fundamental issue in the nascent green hydrogen industry—the cost of renewable power.

Related article: New catalyst could advance green hydrogen production

Sparc Hydrogen’s pioneering technology employs a photocatalyst material and sunlight to produce ‘ultra-green’ hydrogen directly from water. Hydrogen produced from PWS can serve as a clean fuel or feedstock to decarbonise hard-to-abate industries.

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Related article: Smart Energy expands operations across Qld and NSW

The acquisition follows a year that marked significant milestones for Smart Energy, with the company hitting record sales and installations.

Smart Energy co-founder Elliot Hayes said, “We are excited to be associated with a global company like Rinnai, which has a trusted presence in over 20 markets and a 50-year history in Australia. As we move forward, we remain committed to our core principles and to providing our customers with high-quality energy solutions.

“Our partnership with Rinnai will allow us to leverage its expertise in manufacturing and supply chain management to further enhance the quality of our products. Together, we will drive innovation, improve operational efficiencies, and create even greater value for our customers.”

With the acquisition of Smart Energy, Rinnai’s product portfolio expands to include renewable energy solutions that are crucial for sustainable living and energy independence.

“Rinnai has a long-standing reputation for quality, integrity and innovation and we’re excited to welcome Smart Energy into our group of companies as they share this same vision,” Rinnai Australia managing director Lucas Van Raay said.

Related article: Origin acquires 20% stake in Climatech Zero

“This acquisition aligns perfectly with our goal of delivering innovative and environmentally responsible solutions to Australian households and businesses.”

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The theme emphasises the importance of the electric energy industry working cooperatively to develop a sustainable energy future.

Australia is facing the complex and mammoth challenge of making the energy transition successful and this requires connecting people—customers and communities, governments, regulators, and organisations to ensure successful outcomes for all. It’s all about joining forces to address this substantial challenge and ensuring that Australia’s energy needs are met.

During EECON 2024, spanning three days, attendees can expect:

• Engaging presentations from over 40 keynote and session speakers, covering a wide array of informative topics.
• Two insightful site tours to industry-relevant locations.
• A diverse gathering of over 300 delegates representing various facets of the electric energy sector from both Australia and overseas.
• Ample networking opportunities during session breaks, social events, and the conference dinner, providing attendees with the chance to connect with a broad spectrum of individuals involved in the energy industry.

These opportunities will provide attendees with valuable insights, knowledge, and connections to remain at the forefront of the dynamic energy industry landscape.

Energy Source & Distribution is proud to be a media partner of this highly anticipated national conference.

For more information or to complete an early bird registration, click here.

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The Australian Automobile Association’s EV Index shows there were more than 30,000 battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) sales in the second quarter of this year—the first time Australia has cracked that figure in a single quarter. The index shows that BEV/PHEV sales represented 9.6% of new light vehicles sold in Q2.

Related article: “Batteries on wheels”: EVs bolster power grid during blackout

Electric Vehicle Council CEO Samantha Johnson said, “Australia has never had so many electric vehicles on the roads. It was a record breaking quarter for combined battery and plug-in electric vehicle sales.

“The continuing strength of electric vehicle sales means Australia remains on track to hit the 100,000 EV annual sales target in 2024.

“These sales figures are without precedent, which is extremely encouraging given the broader economic pressures with high interest rates and the cost of living limiting people’s ability to purchase new cars.”

Johnson said the figures demonstrated Australians wanted more electric cars and governments must continue to provide support for electric vehicles.

“We have seen several states prematurely withdraw incentives—it is critical that governments implement targeted programs that enable more Australian households and businesses to make the switch to electric vehicles,” she said.

Related article: Australia’s first EV battery and charger factory takes shape

“Misinformation is also hampering the electric vehicle transition. The facts are that EVs are cheaper to own and run than ICEs, they reduce air pollution and they’re essential to reducing our carbon emissions.

“We need to see the EV market grow to meet our climate targets—the National Vehicle Efficiency Standard will play a vital role but there is much more that needs to be done to reduce the nation’s transport emissions.”

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These new contracts allow participants to price and hedge emissions reduction risk amid the transition to a lower carbon economy. They represent the first carbon futures contracts to launch in Australia and New Zealand.

Related article: Gold Hydrogen begins trading on ASX

The three futures contracts are available for trading on the ASX 24 Market and include physically delivered Large Generation Certificate (LGC) Futures, Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Futures and New Zealand Unit (NZU) Futures.

ASX head of commodities Daniel Sinclair said, “As Australia moves from a voluntary to compliance-led carbon market in step with other global jurisdictions, derivatives markets can play an essential role.

“The transition to clean energy, by definition, is uncertain, and ASX-hosted Environmental Futures will be a key instrument in managing risk and supporting the net zero targets of organisations and policymakers.”

Australia’s carbon market is poised for its next stage of development and is set to be one of the world’s largest producers of carbon credits over coming years. Recent data from the Clean Energy Regulator shows that around half of all ACCUs now sit in the registry accounts of safeguard or safeguard related entities alone.

ASX’s Environmental Futures are part of a broader ecosystem of current and planned futures and options contracts across electricity, gas and environmental markets.

Related article: Australia issues inaugural $7 billion green bond

“Building from our core electricity products and driven by strong market demand, ASX intends to develop a diversified and integrated transitional product ecosystem that helps our customers to price and manage the risk and uncertainty of the energy transition,” Sinclair said.

“A liquid and transparent Environmental Futures market will give organisations greater visibility and confidence to support ongoing investment in renewable energy and carbon abatement projects. This will ultimately help mobilise capital towards meeting longer-term emissions targets.”

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Related article: Shipping giant Maersk accelerates decarbonisation plans

This includes exploring the construction and deployment of Cosco Shipping vessels, or co-owned vessels, powered by green ammonia, to ship iron ore and other mineral products with the aim of reducing Australia-China iron ore green shipping corridor’s carbon emissions.

Fortescue Metals CEO Dino Otranto said, “The shipping industry plays a vital role in global trade however also contributes significantly to the world’s carbon emissions. This collaboration marks a significant step in decarbonising the shipping industry and establishing a green fuel supply chain.

“It also paves the way for collaboration on a variety of decarbonisation solutions which we believe will be integral to delivering on our ambitious target of net zero Scope 3 emissions by 2040.”

This collaboration builds on Fortescue’s research and development to decarbonise shipping, having developed a green ammonia capable ship engine.

In March 2024, the Fortescue Green Pioneer received the world’s first certification to use ammonia in combination with diesel as a marine fuel, bringing the company one step closer to green shipping.

Related article: Fortescue to boost energy investment despite job cuts

The vessel has also successfully completed propulsion and manoeuvrability trials in the Port of Singapore.

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The eagerly anticipated grand opening of the inaugural Omexom Institute for Australia has officially opened in Laverton North, Victoria.

Welcoming esteemed guests to the occasion was The Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for the State Electricity Commission; Pierre-Andre Imbert, French Ambassador for Australia; and Myriam Boisbouvier-Wylie, Honorary Consul General of France for Melbourne.

With 15 Omexom training facilities now operational worldwide, the recognition of the necessity for a central learning hub in Victoria to foster ongoing education has led to the establishment of the very first Omexom Institute in Australia.

Supported by French parent company VINCI Energies, the institute is dedicated to preparing the workforce of tomorrow, encompassing apprentices, electricians, lineworkers, cable jointers, and STEM-trained professionals.

In 2023, training was provided to over 120 individuals, with the aspiration to expand this figure to over 3,000 internal and external participants by 2035. The alignment of the State Government’s vision to promote job creation and nurture essential skills with the principles upheld by the Omexom Institute is evident.

The inauguration of the training facility signifies Omexom’s commitment to supporting Australia’s current and future workforce.

As noted by managing director Tony Croagh, “Omexom is proud to be at the forefront in Australia, advancing the workforce by investing in its people to achieve industry excellence.”

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The report is the first comprehensive assessment of innovation in critical minerals refining required to build a sovereign mid-stream processing industry in Australia.

Related article: Critical minerals industry gets $400M federal funding

The demand for energy transition minerals has doubled in the past five years to US$320 billion, led by the exponential growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and the continued deployment of solar and wind energy.

The report provides data on the current capabilities and RD&D and international co-operation opportunities across lithium, cobalt, silicon, rare earth elements and graphite.

The report takes the guess work out of investment and policy decision-making, by unpacking the processing technology options to make essential materials for:

• lithium-ion batteries used in electric cars
• rare earth magnets used in electric cars and wind turbines
• solar PVs.

Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub manager Lucy O’Connor said R&D had a pivotal role to play in realising Australia’s potential in critical mineral processing, commercialising the sector and establishing the ESG standards and practices that set Australian industry apart.

“We need to ensure research is targeted to industry problems and outcomes and can be developed into commercially applicable technologies,” she said.

Related article: A glimpse at Australia’s hydrogen future

“This report provides information industry, international partners and investors, as well as the R&D sector, need to identify comparative opportunities as well as the most challenging technical bottlenecks for the sector when developing integrated supply chains in critical minerals.”

The report was funded by the Critical Minerals Office in the Department of Industry, Science and Resources and will also help inform the Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub—a $50.5 million initiative that brings together Australia’s leading science agencies ANSTO, CSIRO and Geoscience Australia.

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Related article: Horizon Power community partnerships recipients announced

The program provides $1.1 million each financial year to community organisations, events and initiatives making a positive impact in our regional communities. It aims to support not-for-profit organisations and local governments, enriching the lives of residents within Horizon Power’s service area, which includes the Kimberley, Pilbara, Gascoyne, Mid West, Esperance and Goldfields regions.

Partnerships of up to $10,000 are available to successful applicants of initiatives within a single Horizon Power region and up to $50,000 for organisations that impact multiple regional communities.

In July 2023, Horizon Power took responsibility for the delivery of power for 117 Aboriginal communities in remote Western Australia. Since then, it has supported numerous remote communities with over $45,000 in partnerships, including Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Culture Centre, Far North Community Services, Mulan Aboriginal Corporation and the Cycling Development Foundation.

Organisations based in or supporting these remote communities are encouraged to apply for a Horizon Power Community Partnership.

Horizon Power CEO Stephanie Unwin said, “The relationships we have with our regional communities are invaluable. The Community Partnerships Program is a way for us to strengthen these relationships, working together to achieve shared goals and create lasting impacts.

Related article: Horizon boosts solar access in Gascoyne and Mid West

“Our towns are made up of so many passionate people who work tirelessly to support their communities. The programs and events they run are making a real difference to the lives of many people and we are proud to be able to support them,” she said.

Applications for the latest round of partnerships close on August 19, 2024.

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Related article: WA to host first TAFE Clean Energy Skills Centre

TAFE Queensland proudly opened the new Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility and Advanced Manufacturing Skills Lab at the Townsville Trade Training Centre in Bohle, marking a significant step forward in supporting emerging industries and providing them with a pipeline of skilled workers well into the future.

TAFE Queensland North region general manager Susan Kinobe said, “For over 140 years, TAFE Queensland has been at the heart of Queensland communities.

“The new Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility and Advanced Manufacturing Skills Lab will enable TAFE Queensland to continue this legacy by training skilled workers for emerging industries like hydrogen and advanced manufacturing, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.”

The state-of-the-art facilities will offer a range of training options, from nationally recognised certificates and diplomas to skill sets, micro-credentials, and trade tasters for high school students as part of the TAFE at School program.

These programs will cover areas such as sustainable energy, autonomous technologies, and robotics, equipping students with the skills required for the jobs of tomorrow.

Each year, more than 2,000 trade apprentices are trained at the Bohle campus. With the addition of the new training facilities, North Queenslanders will have even greater access to cutting-edge education and skills development in hydrogen and advanced manufacturing.

Related article: Australia’s first Hydrogen training centre opens in Brisbane

“There’s never been a better time to take on a trade—it might just change your life. These new facilities open up exciting possibilities for North Queenslanders to gain the skills needed for the future of work,” Kinobe said.

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The who’s-who of Australia’s clean energy sector gathered at the Australian Clean Energy Summit (ACES) NAB Gala Dinner, with awards announced across the categories of collaboration, First Nations engagement and participation, diversity and inclusion, media and outstanding contribution to industry.

Related article: CEC calls for increased Renewable Energy Target

SA Power Networks won the Collaboration Award, in recognition of their leadership in creating the Flexible Exports initiative. The program is a world-first connection offer involving deep collaboration across industry, customers and market bodies, that allows customers to double their solar exports and minimise any constraints.

The First Nations Engagement and Participation Award was won by Beon Energy Solutions, in recognition of their First Nations engagement for the Girgarre Solar Farm near Shepparton, Victoria. Beon proactively assisted 31 local Yorta Yorta women and men through the employment process. Many of these people had been long-term unemployed.

Iberdrola and Transgrid were dual winners of the Diversity and Inclusion Award, in recognition of their work on gender equality initiatives aimed at improving diversity and inclusion within their organisation and/or the industry more broadly.

Australian Associated Press (AAP) Future Economies Correspondent, Marion Rae, won the Media Award, acknowledging her outstanding commitment to writing about Australia’s clean energy transformation and the role of renewables in powering our future economic success and meeting our climate targets.

Ekistica principal consultant power systems Kate Summers and UNSW Energy Institute industry Professor Mark Twidell were both winners of this year’s Outstanding Contribution to Clean Energy Award, in recognition and appreciation of their decisive leadership in supporting Australia’s clean energy transition.

Clean Energy Council CEO Kane Thornton said this year’s awards celebrate the tireless work of the sector across varying initiatives and functions, to accelerate the growth of renewables in Australia’s energy system.

Related article: Clean Energy Council releases strategic Power Playbook

“Our sector is at a major turning point in powering Australia’s future. Our award winners have led from the front in delivering the immeasurable benefits of clean, low-cost renewable energy to all Australians,” he said.

“I congratulate and thank all of our 2024 award winners, as well our finalists on their achievements.”

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The factory will produce 300 batteries a year and create 300 jobs on the Gold Coast, capable of serving up to 100 Queensland households with reliable and cheaper renewable energy.

Related article: For a ‘future made in Australia’, we need more innovation and diverse people in science and tech

eLumina CEO Lisa Marsh said onshore manufacturing of critical EV technology, such as chargers and batteries, was essential to Australia’s energy future.

“Global demand for batteries is soaring. We have record solar uptake and energy generation in Australia, but we need battery storage at scale to harness its full potential,” she said.

“Through battery storage we can capture this energy and ensure reliable and cheaper off-grid power to all Australians. This insulates communities from power outages and saves them money.

“Queensland has the potential to become a world leader in next-generation battery manufacturing and research and development. Our centre is just the start of that. We are committed to making a fundamental difference to Australia’s clean energy economy.

“We’re building this facility using local talent and locally sourced parts and materials. Once it’s completed, it will support 300 high-skilled jobs, which will draw on the region’s talent.”

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the Gold Coast had an ambitious plan to secure a larger slice of the clean energy sector and the high skilled jobs it’s creating.

“Our Economic and Climate Resilience and Sustainability Strategies are all about backing the Gold Coast to use renewable energy and boost the uptake of renewables.

“I’m excited to see the thousands of EV chargers and batteries set to be deployed in Australia over the coming years to be stamped ‘Made on the Gold Coast’.”

Related article: The government’s cash splash aims to kickstart Australia’s battery industry. Has it flipped the right switches?

To accelerate the deployment of its EV chargers across the country, eLumina has partnered with Addelec (formerly known as Gemtek), a leading installer of EV charging stations with national asset management capabilities.

The factory is set to be operational by August 2024.

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Related article: Government expands clean energy apprenticeships program

The New Energy Apprenticeships Mentoring Program is designed to support the clean energy sector. This Australian Government initiative aims to maximise retention and completion rates of Australian apprenticeships in clean energy occupations by connecting apprentices to skilled workers and businesses in the clean energy industry.

“We are excited to launch the New Energy Apprenticeships Mentoring Program. It will create substantial opportunities for apprentices and the clean energy sector in Australia,” ARA CEO Bernadette O’Connor said.

“This program aligns perfectly with our mission to transform the Australian workforce for the new energy revolution.”

Related article: WA to host first TAFE Clean Energy Skills Centre

The government funding will enable a range of services under the program, including peer support, networking events, and other clean-energy-industry-based activities. This strategic investment highlights the government’s commitment to building a strong workforce for the growing clean energy sector.

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ARENA is providing a total of $1.98 million in grants directly to 10 businesses that are looking to contribute to Australia’s emissions reduction targets by deploying renewable technologies novel ways.

Related article: ARENA opens funding round for industrial decarbonisation

The grants, awarded as part of ARENA’s work to drive industrial decarbonisation, will support businesses to undertake feasibility studies. ARENA will work with industry to share valuable knowledge generated from these studies.

ARENA has announced the following grants:

• $399,503 for G&K O’Connor to achieve comprehensive decarbonisation for a meat processing facility in Pakenham, Vic.
• $110,000 for Paper Australia to investigate using a deep-bore geothermal heating system at a barramundi farm in Maryvale, Vic.
• $149,850 for Unilever to develop a decarbonisation roadmap for three factories across NSW and Victoria.
• $242,924 for George Weston Food to modernise refrigeration infrastructure at a smallgoods facility in Castlemaine, Vic.
• $117,515 for Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water to optimise system operations across water pipelines in Western Victoria.
• $116,397 for Brown Family Wine Group to investigate the requirements for low emissions and energy efficiency technologies at a winery in Milawa, Vic.
• $205,000 for Beston Global Food Company for site-wide energy efficiency and electrification projects at its cheese plant in Jervois, SA.
• $250,400 for Real Pet Food to consider a heat energy recovery system at pet food manufacturing sites in Qld and NSW.
• $244,677 for Quantem to improve energy efficiency and examine electrification options across its operations.
• $147,800 for Bindaree Beef to investigate biomass processing options to harness energy from waste and a meat processing facility in Inverell, NSW.

“Meeting Australia’s emissions reduction targets will require businesses in Australia’s most energy intensive industries making actionable plans to incorporate renewables in their operations,” ARENA CEO Darren Miller said.

Related article: AGL trials flexible demand in commercial/industrial sector

“The grants we’ve announced today are for businesses eager to get on the front foot, looking to deploy renewable energy technologies in new ways.”

ARENA’s industrial decarbonisations programs include the $400 million Industrial Transformation Stream (ITS) and the $40 million National Industrial Transformation (NIT) Program.

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