The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has launched the second funding round of the $1 billion Solar Sunshot program, building on the momentum of Round 1 to establish a resilient solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing sector in Australia.
Round 2 has $150 million available to extend support to critical segments of the solar PV supply chain, including framing, solar glass, junction boxes and deployment technologies.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the Solar Sunshot program represented a pivotal opportunity for Australia to secure its place in the global solar industry.
"Australia has the opportunity to build high-quality products across the solar PV supply chain. Although we have a very small production capability today, we have the skills, partnerships and raw materials to establish a strong base that can be built on over the next decade," Mr Miller said.
Round 1A, now closed, dedicated up to $500 million to support module manufacturing. Round 1B, with up to $50 million available for feasibility and engineering studies, has been extended until November 2026.
Through these initial rounds, ARENA supported pioneering Australian companies, including up to $46 million for 5B to expand manufacturing capacity of its Maverick solar deployment system, $34.5 million to Tindo Solar to boost domestic production of solar PV and $11 million to three feasibility studies for upstream solar manufacturing.
Solar Sunshot plays a key role in ensuring Australia can make the most of its natural resources across the entire value chain - from mineral extraction to module manufacturing. A cornerstone of the Government's Future Made in Australia ambitions, the program supports innovation, scale and diversity in solar manufacturing and our renewable energy superpower ambitions.
ARENA is delivering the $1 billion Solar Sunshot program to grow Australia's solar PV industry by supporting innovation, scale and diversity in solar manufacturing.
The program will help Australia make the most of its abundant solar energy and expertise, creating diverse, secure and resilient supply chains that support thriving green energy industries.
Round 2 will open for submissions on 23 September 2025. Details on eligibility, funding mechanisms and timelines are available on the ARENA website.
