The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced it will fund up to $45 million to support Sicona Battery Technologies (Sicona) to demonstrate the manufacturing of its advanced silicon-carbon battery anode material, SiCx.
Delivered through the Battery Breakthrough Initiative, the project will see the construction and operation of a commercial-scale demonstration facility in the Illawarra region.
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Sicona’s SiCx technology aims to increase battery density by 20 per cent and charging speed by up to 40 per cent while remaining compatible with existing battery production lines.
If successful, the batteries could outperform conventional battery performance and help address the global demand for higher-performing electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
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 more safe, affordable, and scalable than incumbent silane-based approaches.
Samples of SiCx produced at the Illawarra plant will be sent for advanced testing, enabling Sicona to secure offtake agreements with global battery and EV manufacturers.
Sicona Founder and CEO Christiaan Jordaan said SiCx could open up opportunities across the broader battery supply chain.
“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,” Mr Jordaan said.
“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.
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The Battery Breakthrough Initiative is a funding program delivered by ARENA as part of the Australian Government’s National Battery Strategy and Future Made in Australia agenda.
