Queensland Government announces $24 million dollar support of flow batteries from local manufacturers

Energy Storage Industries – Asia Pacific (ESI) has welcomed the Palaszczuk Government’s $24 million investment into flow batteries from local manufacturers, which will support the next stage of Queensland’s local battery capability and help the state meet its renewable energy commitments. 

ESI will receive $12m of the funding package for an iron flow battery to be deployed in the Wide Bay region of Queensland. These batteries use iron flow technology, which is an alternative to the more common lithium-ion battery systems which are predominantly manufactured off-shore. 

Energy Queensland’s network battery program aims to support Queensland companies to help develop local industries in battery storage technologies, which are fundamental for the energy transition. 

“If we don’t back investment in batteries in Queensland we will see investment go offshore,” Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.  

“Our government is backing local manufacturing of batteries because that means more jobs across more regions in Queensland.” 

Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said it was another way of lowering energy prices for Queenslanders as well as take a key step to a cleaner and sustainable future. 

“These new zinc-bromine and iron flow battery projects are an important part of the transformation of Queensland’s energy system to deliver clean, reliable and affordable energy to provide power for generations,” Minister de Brenni said. 

Energy Queensland’s Chief Engineer Peter Price said it was important to diversify the Queensland battery program and understand the benefits of multiple technologies and solutions.  

“The new zinc-bromine and iron flow battery projects are an important trial for Energy Queensland as it is a step towards diversifying our overall battery program away from the more commonly available lithium battery systems,” Mr Price said. 

“The batteries will be located close to areas of high solar penetration, while supporting the whole electricity supply chain, alongside other complementary solutions to maximise the growing uptake of renewable energy.” 

ESI Managing Director Stuart Parry said the funding would cement Queensland’s growing reputation as a the national leader in the renewable energy economy. 

“ESI is a Queensland-based and Australian owned company that is supporting jobs and investment in the regions through the manufacture of reliable and environmentally friendly iron flow batteries,” Mr Parry said. 

“We are establishing a $70 million battery assembly facility in Maryborough and, as part of a joint venture with another Queensland company, will make the electrolyte solution in Townsville. 

“We look forward to working with Energy Queensland to deliver this pilot project as an important step in bringing this sustainable energy storage technology to scale and underpinning Queensland’s energy transformation.”  

 For more information on the announcement, please read the linked press release: $24 million investment in flow batteries supports local battery companies