Three Geelong-based businesses are leading the way in clean technology and circular economy innovation, thanks to support from the City of Greater Geelong's Clean Economy Grants program.
The grants help businesses develop proof-of-concept products and services that reduce emissions, improve resource efficiency, and deliver environmental benefits to the community.
Rhino Instruments has successfully commercialised a lithium-ion battery management system that repurposes cells from discarded consumer battery packs to power industrial temperature monitors.
Battery waste continues to be a national challenge, due to limited recycling options and fire risks when incorrectly disposed of in general waste. Rhino Instruments' system offers a safer, more sustainable alternative.
This local innovation demonstrates the potential of circular economy solutions to address the growing challenge of lithium-ion battery waste.
By extending the lifespan of battery cells through creative product design, the system delays the need for recycling.
FormFlow Pty Ltd, a modular housing manufacturer, is tackling housing affordability and sustainability through a market analysis study supported by a Clean Economy Grant.
The study explored circular economy finance models that separate land and home ownership, enabling affordable leasing options using FormFlow's relocatable homes. These homes can be repurposed, resold or returned at the end of a lease, reducing costs and environmental impact.
The preferred model identified offers up to 40 per cent lower life cycle costs over 50 years and up to 23 per cent lower Global Warming Potential emissions, compared to traditional build-and-sell approaches. These insights will inform future product development to meet national housing and sustainability needs.
Fulton Hogan Industries Pty Ltd used its 2022-23 Clean Economy Grant to investigate the use of biochar in pavement products.
The project delivered valuable data on the strength properties of biochar-based materials and established key stakeholder connections to support future low-carbon and carbon-neutral product development. Work is ongoing to identify viable biochar sources for commercial use.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said the Clean Economy Grants continue to support local ingenuity and sustainable growth.
"These projects show the incredible innovation happening right here in Geelong, with practical solutions to national and global challenges like battery waste, housing affordability and low-carbon construction," Mayor Kontelj said.
"It's fantastic to see local businesses leading the way in clean technology, creating new opportunities and jobs for our community right here in the region."
Councillor Elise Wilkinson, Chair of the Environment and Circular Economy portfolio, encouraged businesses with innovative ideas to apply for funding to help bring their concepts to life.
"We're proud to support these local innovators who are turning smart ideas into real-world solutions," Cr Wilkinson said.
"These projects demonstrate how clean technology and circular economy thinking can deliver better outcomes for our environment, economy and community. They also strengthen Geelong's reputation as a City of Design."
Will you be the next innovator or business to develop a Clean Economy solution? Applications are now open for the 2025-26 Clean Economy Grant round, closing 5.00pm on 8 September 2025. Grants of up to $25,000 are available.
Apply now: https://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/grants/article/item/8da4236930bcee7.aspx
