PowerPlus Energy Pty Ltd (PPE) is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $2.3 million grant under the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s (ARENA) Battery Breakthrough Initiative (BBI) program. This grant forms part of PPE’s $6.7 million project to semi-automate the local manufacture of battery modules for current and future products and to provide toll manufacturing capacity for other local battery businesses.
The BBI program, established under the Future Made in Australia policy agenda, aims to build local capability across the battery supply chain. As Australia’s largest local manufacturer of battery modules for stationary storage, PPE is proud that ARENA recognised its market position and long-term commitment to local suppliers.
Under the project, PPE will invest in a three-fold scale-up over the next two years of its manufacturing capacity, producing up to 150 MWh of battery modules annually. This expansion will support growth in key sectors, such as agriculture, utilities and eco-resorts, where PPE’s ability to design and manufacture for local conditions is critical.
The project is further supported by local suppliers, reinforcing PPE’s long-standing commitment to Australian product supply chains.
Ben Spincer, PowerPlus Energy Executive Chairman said:
“As Australia’s largest battery pack manufacturer this grant will help us maintain our position at the forefront of the local industry by enabling us to accelerate further investment in our manufacturing and testing capabilities. We are delighted that the team at ARENA has recognised both our ambitions and our unique market position in supporting this investment.
“This investment is not just about our facility in Melbourne, but also about the thousands of customers across the country, ensuring we can continue to supply Australian-manufactured, accredited and supported products in a market increasingly dominated by low-cost imports.”
ARENA CEO Darren Miller said scaling local battery manufacturing capability is critical to Australia’s clean energy transition. “Battery manufacturing is a key part of Australia’s energy transition and economic future,” Mr Miller said. “This project supports an established Australian manufacturer to grow, innovate and compete, while delivering flow on benefits across the local supply chain.”
