The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced up to $45 million in funding to support Sicona Battery Technologies (Sicona) to demonstrate manufacturing of its advanced silicon-carbon battery anode material, SiCx®.
Delivered under the Battery Breakthrough Initiative, the project involves the construction and operation of a commercial-scale demonstration facility in the Illawarra region, potentially within BlueScope's Port Kembla precinct.
With global demand for higher-performing electric vehicle (EV) batteries continuing to grow, charging speed, driving range and cost remain key barriers to widespread EV adoption. Sicona's SiCx technology aims to increase battery density by 20 per cent and enable charging speeds up to 40 per cent faster than conventional graphite, while remaining compatible with existing battery production lines.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the project supports the development of next-generation battery technologies and strengthens Australia's role in the global battery supply chain.
"Improving battery performance will help to further accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles and lowering emissions," Mr Miller said.
"Sicona's technology has the potential to deliver faster charging, longer driving range and lower-cost batteries. The technology has undergone independent testing and is already being evaluated by global battery and electric vehicle manufacturers, highlighting its strong commercial potential."
"This project also supports the development of domestic capability in advanced battery materials, reducing reliance on imported components and strengthening Australia's position in the global battery supply chain."
SiCx® is produced using a mechanical process that is safer, more scalable and lower cost than incumbent silane-based approaches. Samples of SiCx® produced at the plant will be sent for advanced sampling enabling Sicona to secure offtake agreements with global battery and EV manufacturers.
"Battery-powered industries need higher performance at lower cost. Our silicon-carbon anode technology is designed to deliver faster charging, greater energy density and a scalable pathway into existing lithium-ion battery supply chains," said Sicona Founder and CEO Christiaan Jordaan.
"The Wollongong facility will allow us to validate our process at commercial scale, deliver SiCx® to customers, and accelerate our path to market."
"It also shows Australia can do more than export critical minerals. We can manufacture advanced materials, create skilled jobs, and compete in the high-value battery supply chains that will power the global energy transition."
The development of the facility is expected to create up to 36 skilled manufacturing jobs and support workforce development, training and local industry partnerships.
About the Battery Breakthrough Initiative
The Battery Breakthrough Initiative (BBI) was a funding program delivered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of the Australian Government's National Battery Strategy and Future Made in Australia agenda.
BBI supported the growth of Australia's battery manufacturing industry, helping to build local capability across the battery value chain and unlock clean energy opportunities for Australian workers and businesses.
The program was delivered as a competitive, merit-based initiative and is now closed.
