Australia’s energy technology ecosystem is being supported with the announcement of $2 million in new funding to help drive the future of energy resources innovation.

The funding, which is being provided by NERA (National Energy Resources Australia), was announced today by Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, the Hon. Karen Andrews MP and Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Matt Canavan.

NERA Chief Executive Miranda Taylor said the funding will support industry-led projects that can strengthen Australia's position as a global hub for excellence in energy resources innovation.

“We know collaborative partnerships between industry and innovators can produce truly transformational results, and NERA is committed to continuing to support our sector adopt and adapt to new technologies that generate competitive industry outcomes, efficiencies and deliver value and jobs across the nation,” Ms Taylor said.

“Through this new project funding announcement, we hope to work with local innovators to build their capacity and capability in fields of robotics and artificial intelligence, which are critical to improving the future productivity and safety of the energy resources sector, as well as developing transferable skills and technologies with benefits across the Australian economy,” Ms Taylor said.

“By continuing our sector-wide initiatives, we can unlock more than $10 billion in new value and achieve our vision of Australia as a global energy powerhouse, a sought-after destination for investment and the leading source of knowledge and solutions.”

NERA’s $2 million future technology project fund is open to all applicants who meet the Expression of Interest guidelines, and NERA is encouraging applicants with projects/initiatives that have one or more of the following focus areas impacting the energy resources sector:

·         Remote operations, robotics and Artificial Intelligence

·         Unconventional gas technologies

·         Hydrogen

·         Decommissioning

Project proponents who can demonstrate innovative approaches, clear commercialisation applications and clear project timeframes should consider applying.

Projects must have matched industry funding, be undertaken in Australia and address one or more of the Knowledge Priorities identified in the NERA Sector Competitiveness Plan — a strategic roadmap for Australia's oil, gas, coal and uranium industries and value chains.

Applications must be received by 30 September 2019. The funding is part of NERA’s collaborative $15.6 million Project Fund. For more information, visit www.nera.org.au.