Experts gather at UNSW to discuss AU’s future in battery manufacturing

Advancements in long-duration energy storage, essential for the expanded use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, will take centre stage this week at the University of New South Wales Sydney.

The 40th Anniversary Flow Battery Innovation Symposium, hosted by Emeritus Professor Maria Skyllas-Kazacos and her team at UNSW, celebrates four decades since the invention of the vanadium redox flow battery.

This milestone highlights the evolution of the technology, which has progressed from the first 1kW battery built at UNSW to large-scale systems now deployed worldwide.

According to UNSW, unlike lithium-ion batteries, VFBs are known for their non-flammable, non-explosive properties and their ability to scale easily, making them well-suited for grid applications.

“The vanadium flow battery offers a unique solution to the energy storage needs of renewable sources like solar and wind,” Professor Skyllas-Kazacos said.

“Unlike traditional batteries, flow batteries store energy in electrolyte solutions, allowing for flexible and scalable energy storage at lower costs for long-duration applications.”

With approximately 25 per cent of the world’s vanadium reserves located within its borders, UNSW Sydney said Australia is positioned to develop a robust flow battery industry, from mining and electrolyte production to battery manufacturing.

Industry leaders attending the symposium will discuss how Australia can leverage its natural resources and renewable energy expertise to become a global leader in vanadium flow battery production.

The symposium, running from 15 to 16 October, will gather experts across the flow battery supply chain, including researchers, manufacturers, and policymakers.

Discussions will focus on the latest technological developments, market opportunities, and the importance of policy support in fostering industry growth.

The event will highlight the importance of government backing through initiatives such as the Battery Breakthrough Initiative, which aims to stimulate investment in energy storage innovation.

Experts will discuss how policy frameworks can promote flow battery manufacturing and encourage new players to enter the market.

The symposium will also feature insights from manufacturers preparing to establish operations in Australia.