The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) welcomes the long-awaited first phase of the Solar Sunshot program.
Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has today opened the first phase of the $1 billion Solar Sunshot program to support innovation in Australia’s solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing industry.
There will be two funding rounds worth a total of $550 million. The first round will support solar PV manufacturing innovation with a focus on modules, inputs to modules, and deployment systems. The second round will provide funding for solar PV manufacturing studies, including feasibility and engineering studies.
AMWU National Secretary Steve Murphy said this announcement increases Australia's role in the global solar manufacturing supply chain.
“The federal government has fired the starters’ gun for local firms to bid on who can make solar panels in Australia.”
“Australia can be a renewable energy superpower by building capacity in our domestic manufacturing sector.”
“We have fought to decarbonise our economy in a way that ensures people in Australian regions who have powered our economy for generations can have more confidence in a secure future in new manufacturing industries.”
“From the mines to the rooftops, we can make it all here.”
Mr Murphy urged the government to adhere to a community benefits principle.
“The government needs to back this announcement with a clear policy that public funds will only be used to deliver better outcomes for our communities, and that includes local procurement provisions that have secure, well-paid, unionised jobs at its centre.”
Media contact: Sonia Feng, 0478 599 580