Released 15/09/2025
The ACT Government has announced three new funding recipients that will help solve energy challenges in the ACT and accelerate the uptake of renewable energy initiatives.
Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, Suzanne Orr, said these projects funded through the Energy Innovation Fund help unlock new opportunities for industry and drive innovation, while also supporting the ACT Government’s goal of net zero emissions by 2045.
“These grant recipients, funded through the Energy Innovation Fund, highlight the impressive creativity and strategic thinking of Canberra-based organisations, as well as those seeking to establish a presence in the Territory,” Minister Orr said.
“Among the three projects are innovative solutions to support the transition off gas and towards electrification and the launch of a cutting-edge aircraft training and maintenance hub in the ACT, powered by 100% renewable energy. Paving the way for sustainable regional air travel.
“These projects and the businesses behind them are helping to solve policy and technological challenges in energy transition, drive up collaboration and investment between all levels of industry, government and community, and inspire industry to take concrete steps in adapting to a changing climate.
“I strongly encourage any Canberra-based businesses with ideas on how to solve energy challenges and accelerate the uptake of renewable energy initiatives to apply for the next round.
Congratulations to these recipients, I look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition.” said Minister Orr.
The three newly funded projects through the Energy Innovation Fund are:
- Indi Flight Pty Ltd (Learn2Fly) – for the Technology Demonstration Stream with a grant of $750,000
Launching an electric aircraft training and maintenance hub in the ACT, powered by 100% renewable energy. This initiative supports sustainable regional air travel. - Aratherm Services Pty Ltd – for the Technology Demonstration Stream with a grant of $450,000
The ‘Commercialising Electric Heat’ initiative promotes industrial decarbonisation by making electric heating solutions more viable. It helps manufacturers reduce gas use and improve energy resilience. - Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) – for the Innovation Ecosystem – Innovation Clusters Stream with a grant of $195,000
The ACET (Accelerate Canberra’s Energy Transition) project connects researchers, startups, students, and investors to drive innovation in electrification, grid resilience, gas transition, and recycling.
Since 2016, the $17 million Energy Innovation Fund has been made possible through industry contributions secured through the ACT Government’s pioneering Renewables Reverse Auctions.
The Fund has supported more than 20 ACT-based projects across three different grant streams: the Technology Demonstration Grant, the Policy Challenge Grant, and the Innovation Ecosystem Grant.
The program is open for applications year-round and applications are assessed twice a year. The next assessment deadline is on 30 September 2025.
Learn more about the grants and how to apply on the Everyday Climate Choices website.
Quote attributed to Andrew Scheiffers, Head of Operations, Learn2fly:
“Learn2fly look forward to using this grant to take a step forward in electrifying the aviation system. Starting with small training planes we will be striving to develop processes, approval and training for flight and maintenance crews.
We thank the ACT government for the support and belief in this pursuit. We look forward to working together to deliver a positive impact to the environment and the global travel system.”
- Statement ends -
Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases