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Solar ScaleUp Challenge
Delivered in partnership with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA)
Context
The solar industry is at a turning point. While already the cheapest new energy source, costs must fall further to make renewable power accessible for all. Australia aims to cut large-scale solar costs below $0.30/W installed and reduce LCOE to under $20/MWh, making solar the backbone of a net-zero economy and enabling green hydrogen, clean manufacturing, and decarbonised industry.
About this Challenge
In partnership with ARENA, Greenhouse delivered the Solar ScaleUp Challenge — a $100M global program calling on entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry to rethink large-scale solar. The Challenge aimed to crowdsource breakthrough ideas to reduce costs, speed deployment, and accelerate Australia’s Ultra Low-Cost Solar (ULCS) vision.
- Achieve ARENA’s ULCS targets: <$0.30/W installed and <$20/MWh LCOE
- Identify next-gen solar technologies, designs, and business models
- Strengthen collaboration between startups, researchers, and industry
- Build foundations for new clean energy industries
"We’ve taken that leap of faith by working with Greenhouse… Australia ultimately wants to see more innovation happening."
The Challenge process
Following Greenhouse’s proven open-innovation model, the process included:
01
Defining the Scope: Aligned with national decarbonisation and energy goals.
02
Global Outreach: 140+ applications from robotics, AI, advanced materials, and system designs.
03
Collaboration: Workshops, mentoring, and matchmaking sessions.
04
Evaluation: Expert review on cost reduction, scalability, and feasibility.
05
Shortlisting: 34 high-potential innovators selected.
06
Challenge results
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Results
Key Insights
- Automation and AI cut installation and maintenance costs
- Modular systems reduce site time and boost scalability
- Data-driven design and performance analytics improve efficiency
Partnerships
- ARENA – Lead funding partner
- Greenhouse – Program design, global engagement, and innovation delivery
Where We Are Now
Following the Challenge, ARENA and Greenhouse are engaging shortlisted innovators to explore pilot projects and investment opportunities. The next ULCS funding round in July 2025 will support breakthrough solar technologies and system integration. The program continues to prioritise diversity and inclusion, enabling new entrants and emerging researchers to contribute to Australia’s clean energy transformation.
Impact
The Challenge shows that ultra low-cost solar solutions exist and they need support and collaboration to scale. By connecting global talent with Australian ambition, the program accelerates a more affordable, sustainable energy future.
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