The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) recently made headlines with its announcement of $59.1 million in funding allocated to 21 research projects focused on advancing renewable hydrogen and low-emission iron and steel technologies.
This significant investment reflects ARENA’s commitment to supporting innovative research initiatives that contribute to the global transition to net-zero emissions.
Darren Miller, ARENA’s chief executive, emphasized the organization’s dedication to funding early-stage research and driving innovation. With an initial allocation of $25 million for each of the two funding rounds – Renewable Hydrogen and Iron & Steel – ARENA aimed to propel technological advancements that foster the growth of clean industries and bolster Australia’s position as a renewable energy superpower.
The funding provided by ARENA encompasses a diverse range of research teams, including those from top universities, research organizations, start-ups, and companies across Australia. Each successful applicant received grant funding ranging between $1.3 million and $5 million, reflecting ARENA’s commitment to supporting projects at various stages of development.
Renewable hydrogen and low-emission iron and steel technologies are poised to play pivotal roles in reducing global emissions. Australia, as the world’s largest exporter of iron ore, holds significant potential to drive emissions reduction through decarbonization efforts in the iron and steel value chain. ARENA’s investment in research projects targeting emissions abatement pathways in iron and steel production underscores the importance of collaboration between research groups and industry to achieve substantial environmental impacts.
