Crakanthorp Welcomes $4.85 Million Grant for Mayfield West’s FPR Energy to Advance Emissions Reduction Technology

newy.com.au – A Newcastle-based clean energy company has received a multi-million dollar grant to help develop cutting-edge technology aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across New South Wales.

FPR Energy Limited, based in Mayfield West, has been awarded $4.85 million under the NSW Government’s Clean Technology Innovation grant to commercialise its particle based concentrated solar thermal system. The technology is designed to deliver long duration renewable heat and power, contributing to the state’s transition towards net zero emissions.

The funding is part of a broader $26.2 million investment into 13 projects across NSW under the Clean Technology Innovation Commercial Readiness program. These projects are required to progress through design, prototyping, construction and testing stages, ensuring they are commercially viable and capable of delivering tangible emission reductions by 2028.

The grant forms one stream of the $275 million Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative, which also includes funding for low carbon product manufacturing and renewable energy production. The Clean Technology Innovation stream alone provides up to $25 million for new technologies that go beyond research and development, with a focus on real-world application in areas such as power fuels, electrification, and land management.

NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, said the initiative is part of the government’s strategy to back innovation and job creation in the clean energy sector.

“The Minns Labor Government is investing in the new technologies, jobs and industries that will drive our state’s transition to a low-carbon economy, create new jobs as we address the critical challenges climate change presents,” Ms Sharpe said.

“This investment will see these projects transition into practical, real-world solutions for emissions reduction that also boost innovators, investment and new jobs.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp welcomed the grant, saying the funding highlighted the Hunter region’s leadership in the development of emerging clean technologies.

“It’s fantastic to see Newcastle at the forefront of bold clean technologies that will help cut emissions and drive the state towards achieving net zero,” Mr Crakanthorp said.

“I’m excited to see this project take shape, unlocking new opportunities for local businesses and strengthening the future of our community.”

Although the current funding round is closed, future opportunities under the Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative are expected, with updates available via the NSW Department of Energy and Environment website.