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.
Related article: Australia’s only solar manufacturer scores ARENA funding
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,” 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.
Related article: Alinta and NRN launch no-cost solar and battery plan
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.
Round 2 will open for submissions on September 23, 2025. Details on eligibility, funding mechanisms and timelines are available on the ARENA website.
