The initiative that grabbed international attention in September 2023 was led by several prominent Australian research institutions, most notably the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). The CSIRO is Australia’s national science agency, renowned for pioneering research in various fields, including renewable energy, materials science, and environmental sustainability.
This initiative accelerated clean energy innovation by fostering collaboration between research organisations, government agencies, and industry partners. It highlighted Australia’s commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
Six leading Australian research institutions, including the national science agency CSIRO, have joined forces with international researchers to spearhead innovation in clean energy production and storage.
The two multi-lateral research projects are part of the National Science Foundation Global Centers in Climate Change and Clean Energy (NSF Global Centers) program, a joint effort between Australia, the US, Canada, and the UK.
As the world moves towards net zero, these countries have committed to invest more than AU$118 million in the NSF Global Centres programme over a five-year period to address difficulties brought on by climate change. For Australian participants in the Global Centres, CSIRO will provide a total funding commitment of A$7 million over a five-year period. The Science and Industry Endowment Fund (SIEF), through CSIRO, is funding Australia’s involvement.