The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has opened a consultation on the design of the $1 billion Solar Sunshot program, announced by the Australian government in March 2024.
The program aims to accelerate the development of Australia’s solar manufacturing industry, catalyse clean energy industries, and connect Australia to new global solar supply chains.
In partnership with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW), ARENA has released a consultation paper outlining a proposed structure for the program.
This structure could see the program delivered through a series of funding rounds supporting various stages of the supply chain.
The primary form of financial support proposed under the program is production-linked payments.
ARENA will also assess, informed by consultation, how capital grant funding or other forms of concessional support can complement production-linked payments to achieve program objectives.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller emphasised the importance of industry collaboration in designing a program that supports innovative and competitive solar PV manufacturing.
He noted that Australia’s role in the transition to a net-zero world requires a greater focus on domestic solar production to make the supply chain less vulnerable.
The consultation process, open until 31 May 2024, includes an online submission portal and two consultation webinars. Interested parties can access the consultation paper, webinar dates, and submission portal on the ARENA website.
The aim is to determine the best approach for delivering the $1 billion Solar Sunshot program, ensuring it delivers for industry, communities, and all Australians.
