Tomago Aluminium, Australia's largest aluminium smelter, is transitioning to renewables with a $2.5 billion government package, aiming to meet international demand for low carbon products by adding 3,000 MW of new solar and wind capacity. The deal, managed through Snowy Hydro, will reduce power costs by $35/MWh and support Rio Tinto's goal of operating on 100% renewable energy by 2033. Similar agreements have been made for smelters in Queensland, with a focus on decarbonization activities and grid support. This transition is crucial for Australia to remain competitive globally, unlock new renewable investments, create jobs, and modernize the energy grid for a cleaner, more resilient future.
Tag: Australia
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CMI Update July 2026
Carbon Leader has launched a new capital allocation and risk engine for emissions-exposed organizations, while CEFC, Aviva Investors, and Gresham House have invested in a $142 million project for sustainable forestry in Tasmania. NRM Regions Australia is hiring a Strategic Engagement Lead, and ALFA NT has secured a landmark ACCU supply deal with NAB for Indigenous savanna burning projects. These developments highlight the growing focus on climate solutions, with investments in sustainable practices and partnerships for emissions reduction projects.
https://carbonmarketinstitute.org/2026/08/10/cmi-update-july-2026/
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Nio reaches 120 million battery swaps as latest generation station unveiled, may be headed for Australia
Nio, a Chinese EV company, has achieved a milestone of 120 million battery swaps with its innovative technology, showcasing the potential for quick swaps in under 3 minutes and lowering EV purchase prices through Battery as a Service (BaaS). The company's plans to launch its Firefly-branded product in Australia, where battery swapping infrastructure is lacking, highlights the scalability and impact of this technology on the EV market. The increasing availability of various EV models in international markets, including Australia, is reducing barriers to transitioning to electric vehicles, with experts like Riz from carloop in Melbourne leading the way in promoting sustainable transport solutions and reducing emissions.
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“Second roof:” Solar glass pioneer unveils big rooftop module in time to ride wave of expanded PV subsidy
ClearVue Technologies has received approval for its ClearVue-Helios integrated solar panel to be installed on Australian rooftops, delivering up to 220 watts per square meter with a Class A fire rating and long warranties. The technology allows for light transmission and electricity generation, making it suitable for building-integrated PV applications. With orders secured in the US and Australia, the focus is on commercial and industrial projects, particularly for metal roof applications to provide high energy efficiency and durability. The CEC listing and government incentives for commercial solar installations in Australia will significantly reduce acquisition costs, improving paybacks for customers and strengthening the commercial opportunity for ClearVue products.
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Australia expands rooftop solar rebate scheme
Australia's Federal Energy Minister has announced the expansion of the small-scale renewable energy scheme (SRES) from 100 kW to 1 MW, aiming to support mid-scale solar and unlock the potential of commercial rooftops. The changes will allow for upfront, deemed certificates for new installations and expansions, reducing installation costs by about 20%. The expanded SRES, expected to commence from 1 October 2026, could add an extra 80 GW in solar energy, delivering up to AUD 39.7 billion in gross energy-system benefits annually. Additionally, a government subsidy of AUD 2 billion could result in lower electricity prices, reduced grid pressure, and the potential for 63.3 GW of C&I rooftop solar and 28.7 GW of battery capacity in Australia, helping bridge the gap in the country's energy transition and cutting emissions by 21.88 million tonnes of CO2 annually.
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As Musk plans to send Ai into orbit, Bowen positions Australia to be an Earth-based data superpower
Australia's focus on renewable energy and the potential for data centers to be powered by sources like wind and solar farms could position the country as a renewable energy superpower. With stable regulations and abundant resources, Australia could attract AI developers and accelerate its energy transition. Building AI data centers in Australia not only reduces emissions and lessens dependence on the transmission network but also attracts talent, fosters partnerships, and supports policy objectives. The broader goal is to position Australia as an active participant in shaping the future of AI while achieving its renewable energy targets.
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“Every tool in the kit:” From kerbside EV charging to microgrid building, 10 companies line up for funding, incubation
EnergyLab's 2026 Climate Solutions Accelerator program, supported by Impact Ventures, New Energy Nexus, and Arena, has selected 10 companies focused on decarbonisation technologies like EV chargers, battery materials, solar, indoor plant factories, plastic-free leather alternatives, and more. The program aims to support the growth of Australia's climate tech sector through seed investment and mentorship, addressing critical bottlenecks in the country's decarbonisation path. These innovative technologies reflect the importance of tangible assets in powering decarbonisation efforts and aim to support a reliable, affordable, and renewable energy future in Australia.
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Australian sodium battery start-up claims major milestones as storage industry starts to look beyond lithium
Australian sodium battery startup PowerCap has achieved TÜV and PPP certification for its sodium-ion technology, positioning it as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries. The technology is gaining global attention due to its abundant raw materials and improved thermal stability, offering lower costs compared to other competing technologies. Major deals have been announced by companies in China and the US, with Australian utilities like AGL considering sodium-ion technology for future battery investments. Despite facing regulatory barriers, PowerCap has already achieved sales and is offering small modules for home systems and larger packs for grid-scale deployment. CEO Dane El Safty believes sodium-ion storage will gain momentum due to its safety and cost advantages. The company is looking to engage with distributors and partners globally, including in Australia, and sees promise in the EV market with sodium solid state technology, which could make batteries smaller and lighter. PowerCap predicts significant growth in the sodium-ion market within 5 to 10 years.
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Renewables and electrification help build farm resilience amidst the fuel and fertiliser crisis
Farmers are facing challenges such as volatile markets, rising input costs, labor shortages, and climate variability, with impacts of droughts, floods, extreme heat, and unpredictable seasons being felt on farms. The need for resilience in the agriculture sector is highlighted, with a call for policies that support decarbonization and renewable energy integration. Farmers are increasingly investing in renewables like solar panels and wind turbines to reduce costs, improve resilience, and lower emissions. Collaboration between governments, industry, and farmers is essential to ensure a sustainable transition to a more climate-friendly agriculture sector. The National Renewables in Agriculture Conference and Expo is focusing on how agriculture can contribute to Australia's energy transition while remaining productive, aiming to make farming businesses more resilient, strengthen regional economies, and improve food and energy security, with farmers central to the conversation on achieving these goals.