High Emitting Industries Grants NSW

Purpose and Program Overview

The High Emitting Industries Grants NSW program offers $305 million in funding. It supports high-emitting manufacturing and mining facilities in New South Wales. The grants help these facilities develop and implement decarbonisation projects. The program aims to achieve significant and sustained reductions in industrial emissions by 2030. This aligns with NSW’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. The program supports projects from feasibility studies through to complete commissioning of proven low-emission technologies and infrastructure.

This initiative helps high-emitting facilities transition to a low-carbon economy. It encourages the adoption of technically ready and commercially proven solutions. It also aids in developing local industry skills and capacity. The program works to help NSW industries operate effectively while meeting environmental targets. It also helps achieve broader climate goals. This program is administered by the Office of Energy and Climate Change and funded by the NSW Treasury.

The funding forms a part of the Net Zero Industry and Innovation Program. This larger program supports emissions reductions while ensuring industries prosper in a low-carbon economy. The grant assists by providing decarbonisation solutions that can be scaled across various industrial settings.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Part of a $305 million total funding pool. Grants cover up to 50% of eligible project costs.
• Application open: Ongoing (rolling intake) since October 2022.
• Application closes: Rolling. Applications are accepted until funding is fully used or the program concludes.
• Eligible industries/business types: Manufacturing and mining facilities in NSW. They must have emitted more than 90,000 tCO2e (0.09 MtCO2e) annually since 2018-19.
• Co-contributions: A minimum of 50% of the eligible project costs must be contributed by the applicant. Higher contributions are preferred.
• Location applicability: Facilities located within New South Wales.

Priority Sectors

High Emitting Industries Grants Program targets high-emitting manufacturing and mining sectors. Eligible applicants include facilities in: coal mining, metal ore mining, basic ferrous and non-ferrous metals manufacturing, chemical products, pulp and paper products, cement and concrete production, glass manufacturing, grain mill and cereal processing. Other mining or manufacturing operations exceeding the emissions threshold may also be eligible.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts per project: No fixed limits are set. Funding is proportional, with preference for projects requesting co-funding contributions of 50% or more.
• Project types:
  • Pre-deployment projects: late-stage feasibility studies, commercial trials, business case development, front-end engineering and design. These projects accelerate strategic Scope 1 emissions reduction opportunities.
  • Deployment projects: implementation of proven decarbonisation technologies focused on Scope 1 emissions reduction.
• Project timeline: Projects must match program priorities and funding agreements. They are typically completed prior to 2030.

Grant Amount in Total

A $305 million total funding pool is allocated for the program.

Eligibility Criteria

• Registered under the Australian Corporations Act 2001 as an incorporated Australian entity.
• Hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN).
• Registered for all relevant insurances, including public liability and workers’ compensation.
• Operate a high-emission manufacturing or mining facility. This facility must have emitted more than 0.09 MtCO2e annually since 2018-19.
• Comply with all relevant legislation, workplace health and safety, and employment obligations.
• Solvent with no insolvency events.
• Hold intellectual property rights necessary for project implementation.
• Disclosure of any legal proceedings or investigations. Disclosure of prior grant applications related to the project is also required.
• Commitment to public decarbonisation goals.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Late-stage feasibility and technical studies that prepare the facility for decarbonisation implementation.
• Commercial trials and validation of low-emission technologies or processes.
• Development of business cases and front-end engineering and design for decarbonisation projects.
• Deployment and commissioning of proven decarbonisation technologies, reducing Scope 1 emissions.
• Capital equipment purchases are important to decarbonisation projects.
• Project management and associated technical consulting services are directly related to implementation.

Assessment Process

This is a competitive, rolling assessment of applications. Technical review committees conduct assessments.

The process involves two stages: an initial expression of interest or Stage 1 application. A full application upon invitation follows this.

Evaluation criteria include:

• Project merit and technical commercial readiness.
• Alignment with NSW’s Net Zero Industry and Innovation Investment Plan 2022-2024 priorities.
• Value for money and sustainability of emissions reductions.
• Applicant capability, financial viability, and risk management.
• Level of financial co-contribution and cooperation with industry partners.

Recent Program Updates

The program began accepting applications in October 2022. Rolling assessment is underway through 2025. Funding guidelines remain valid through 2025 until updated versions are published. There is a strategic emphasis on projects that speed up transformative decarbonisation with medium to long-term impact. The NSW government encourages engagement with program officers and early consultation through project idea forms.

Application Tips

• Confirm eligibility based on the emissions threshold and industry classification before applying.
• Prepare detailed project documentation, including feasibility studies or deployment plans.
• Organise financial co-contributions of at least 50%. Consider exceeding this to strengthen the application.
• Match the project with the NSW Net Zero Industry and Innovation Investment Plan objectives.
• Speak with program representatives early to refine project scope and improve competitiveness.
• Submit complete applications promptly. This is due to rolling assessment and funding availability.

Where to Get Help for High Emitting Industries Grants

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. For detailed application guidance and templates, visit the NSW government’s official website.