Australian clean technology developers have limited time to join India collaboration program
Australian researchers, startups and technology companies have until 19 July to apply for a program that supports renewable energy collaboration with Indian manufacturers, building on the India–Australia Renewable Energy Partnership established in 2024.
Australian organisations developing renewable energy technologies have less than two weeks to apply for the Technology Commercialisation Challenge 2.0, with Expressions of Interest closing on 19 July.
Delivered by the CSIRO in partnership with the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the program connects Australian researchers, startups and small and medium sized enterprises with Indian renewable energy manufacturers to help move technologies towards commercial deployment.
Participating organisations can receive grants of up to $55,000 to support collaboration, technology development and project activities with Indian partners. Eligible technologies include solar photovoltaics, batteries, hydrogen, electrification technologies and related renewable energy solutions.
Built on an established partnership
The Technology Commercialisation Challenge operates under the India–Australia Renewable Energy Partnership, which was launched during the Australia India Annual Summit in Brazil in November 2024.
The partnership provides a framework for cooperation across solar photovoltaics, green hydrogen, solar supply chains, energy storage, circular economy initiatives for renewable energy, two way investment in renewable energy projects and related industries, workforce capability and other areas of mutual interest.
Joint work on solar photovoltaics and green hydrogen projects is already underway, while the remaining priority areas are being developed through a new 1.5 Track Dialogue that will explore future opportunities for cooperation.
According to the Australian Government, the partnership also includes commitments to develop the future renewable energy workforce through skills and training while supporting the commercialisation of renewable energy technologies.
Supporting commercial pathways
The Technology Commercialisation Challenge is designed to connect Australian research capability with India's manufacturing sector, allowing organisations to work directly with manufacturers on industry identified challenges.
The program includes facilitated introductions, capability building, market engagement and support to develop commercial relationships. Organisations that establish suitable partnerships may then apply for grant funding to progress joint projects, with successful applicants undertaking collaborative activities over at least nine months, including engagement in India.
The pilot round supported six partnerships between Australian research organisations and Indian manufacturers, including projects involving solar technology, renewable energy systems, green hydrogen and technology commercialisation.
Window for collaboration
With applications closing on 19 July, the current funding round provides Australian organisations with an opportunity to establish partnerships with Indian manufacturers while developing technologies for commercial use.
For businesses and research organisations working in solar, battery, hydrogen, electrification and related manufacturing sectors, the program offers a pathway to build international industry relationships alongside technology development.
