ARENA backs Sicona battery technology to boost EV performance

Australian battery technology research and development has received a further boost with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) announcing up to $45 million in funding to support Sicona Battery Technologies (Sicona) to demonstrate manufacturing of its advanced silicon-carbon battery anode material, SiCx.

Delivered under the Battery Breakthrough Initiative, the project involves the construction and operation of a commercial-scale demonstration facility in the Illawarra region, potentially within BlueScope’s Port Kembla precinct.

With global demand for higher-performing electric vehicle (EV) batteries continuing to grow, charging speed, driving range and cost remain key barriers to widespread EV adoption. Sicona’s SiCx technology aims to increase battery density by 20% and enable charging speeds up to 40% faster than conventional graphite, while remaining compatible with existing battery production lines.

ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the project supports the development of next-generation battery technologies and strengthens Australia’s role in the global battery supply chain.

“Improving battery performance will help to further accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles and lowering emissions,” he said. “Sicona’s technology has the potential to deliver faster charging, longer driving range and lower-cost batteries. The technology has undergone independent testing and is already being evaluated by global battery and electric vehicle manufacturers, highlighting its strong commercial potential.”

SiCx is produced using a mechanical process that is safer, more scalable and lower-cost than incumbent silane-based approaches. Samples of SiCx produced at the plant will be sent for advanced sampling enabling Sicona to secure offtake agreements with global battery and EV manufacturers.

“Battery-powered industries need higher performance at lower cost. Our silicon-carbon anode technology is designed to deliver faster charging, greater energy density and a scalable pathway into existing lithium-ion battery supply chains,” said Sicona Founder and CEO Christiaan Jordaan.

“The Wollongong facility will allow us to validate our process at commercial scale, deliver SiCx to customers, and accelerate our path to market.

“It also shows Australia can do more than export critical minerals. We can manufacture advanced materials, create skilled jobs, and compete in the high-value battery supply chains that will power the global energy transition.”

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