The Queensland Government has announced a significant investment to support the development of a local battery plant.
The State Government said it will contribute $25 million towards establishing Australia’s first grid-scale battery plant in Maryborough, located in the Wide Bay Burnett region.
Energy Storage Industries – Asia Pacific (ESI) will spearhead the project, which aims to produce iron-flow batteries for long-duration energy storage.
Queensland’s Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said by partnering with local industry and attracting private capital, the state is well-placed to seize the incredible opportunities presented by the world’s decarbonisation.
“Our investment in ESI is part of our commitment to firmly establish a new battery manufacturing industry right here in Queensland,” he said.
“Through investments like this we meet our own future clean energy storage needs and take advantage of the massive export opportunities.
“Most importantly, this investment supports new technology and manufacturing jobs, creating more than 270 highly skilled jobs in regional Queensland.”
These batteries have the potential to store energy for up to 14 hours, a crucial capability as the world shifts towards clean and renewable energy sources.
The government’s investment has successfully attracted an additional $40 million from a UK-based investment fund, bringing the total funding to $65 million.
This financial boost is expected to accelerate the industry’s development and secure its future in Queensland.
Construction has already begun at the Maryborough site, with full operations projected to commence by mid-2029.
Once fully operational, the facility is anticipated to create up to 273 full-time jobs, providing a significant economic boost to the region.
ESI will be utilising technology licensed from Oregon-based ESS, Inc. to scale up its manufacturing capabilities. The Queensland Government views this investment as a strategic move to position the company for potential collaborations with publicly owned energy corporations.
This initiative aligns with the state’s broader goals of fostering innovation in the renewable energy sector and creating jobs in regional areas.
The development of long-duration energy storage capabilities is seen as a vital component in the ongoing global efforts to decarbonise and increase reliance on renewable energy sources.
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