Australian Solar Manufacturing Boost
Australia is taking a step towards clean-tech leadership with a $45.5 million investment from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to scale up local solar manufacturing.
At the heart of this initiative is Tindo Solar, Australia’s only solar panel manufacturer, which will receive $34.5 million to expand its Adelaide facility from 20 MW to 180 MW of annual production capacity. The company is also exploring the development of a 1 GW gigafactory, which could significantly reduce Australia’s reliance on imported solar panels.
In addition to Tindo’s expansion, ARENA is funding feasibility studies into upstream solar manufacturing, including polysilicon, wafers, and cells, with $11 million allocated to projects led by Solquartz, Energus, and Stellar PV. These studies aim to assess the viability of producing solar components onshore, which are currently sourced overseas.
This investment aligns with Australia’s 2050 net-zero emissions target and supports the federal government’s broader ambition to become a global clean energy superpower.
By backing local innovation and manufacturing, ARENA is helping to build a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable solar industry.
One that not only powers homes and businesses but also fuels jobs, exports, and long-term national capability.