In a bid to propel Australia into a renewable energy powerhouse, the Albanese Government has unveiled the Solar SunShot program, backed by a substantial $1 billion investment.
Empowering Renewable Energy Production
The Solar SunShot initiative aims to bolster Australia’s presence in the global solar manufacturing supply chain by offering production subsidies and grants, with a focus on increasing domestic solar panel manufacturing.
Prime Minister Albanese made the announcement at the former coal-fired Liddell Power Station site in the Hunter Region, highlighting the government’s commitment to transitioning towards cleaner energy sources.
Catalyzing Regional Growth
Despite Australia boasting the highest rate of household solar panel uptake globally, only a mere 1% are domestically produced. Solar SunShot aims to change this narrative, particularly benefiting regions like Hunter, thereby fostering regional prosperity.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and the Australian Government, with consultations set to commence in mid-April. ARENA will oversee the project’s design and implementation, covering the entire solar supply chain.
Government Support and Vision
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the importance of fostering a future driven by Australian innovation, with a focus on supporting regional economies. Ministers Bowen and Husic echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program’s potential to create Australian jobs and strengthen the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.
Ministers Sharpe and Houssos from NSW also welcomed the initiative, aligning it with the state’s Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative. They underscored the significance of supporting clean energy manufacturing and leveraging government procurement to bolster the domestic solar industry. The Solar SunShot program marks a significant step towards realizing Australia’s renewable energy potential, driving economic growth, and securing a sustainable future.
Source：miragenews.com
