Energus – Australian Silicon Study

Summary

Need

Australia currently lacks a domestic polysilicon (Poly-Si) production capability, which is a critical material in the solar PV value chain. The global supply of Poly-Si is concentrated in a few countries, exposing Australia to significant supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical risks. To support the objectives of the Solar Sunshot Program and reduce reliance on international supply, there is a need to assess the commercial viability of establishing large-scale domestic Poly-Si manufacturing. This feasibility study aims to address knowledge gaps in cost, design, engineering, and supply chain factors necessary to support the development of a 10–40 GW capacity facility producing 50,000 tonnes of Poly-Si per annum.

Action

Energus will establish a consortium to undertake a feasibility study for the development of a polysilicon (Poly-Si) production facility with a capacity of 10–40 GW, capable of producing 50,000 tonnes of Poly-Si per annum. The feasibility study will be delivered in multiple phases covering the analysis of:

1. commercial factors,
2. high-level draft design,
3. supply chain factors,
4. operational considerations,
5. enabling factors
6. regulatory compliance aspects
7. the final report and knowledge sharing deliverables

Key scope activities for the design and construction phase include:

• reviewing market development and supply channels
• estimating annual output and plant size
• identifying infrastructure needs for the Hunter Energy Hub (e.g., power, water)
• engineering feasibility in partnership with Australian and overseas engineering companies
• estimating energy supply requirements and project timelines

The findings of the feasibility study will inform the commercial and technical viability of progressing to full-scale development of a domestic Poly-Si production facility in Australia.

Outcome

The objectives of the Project will be achieved through the following Outcomes:

1. to provide a pathway for the development and operation of a commercial scale Poly-Si manufacturing facility;
2. to support innovation in Poly-Si manufacturing facilities in Australia; and
3. to reduce barriers to Poly-Si manufacturing by:
   1. investigating the potential to achieve a Poly-Si green price premium;
   2. addressing challenges to Australian Poly-Si production; and
   3. providing a feasible pathway towards the Australian supply of Poly-Si.