The University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Next-Gen Energy Technology sign an MOU in a tripartite partnership to work together using a triple helix approach that will build the battery manufacturing supply chain in South Australia
Next-Gen Energy Technology (Next-Gen), the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia (UniSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will accelerate Next-Gen’s efforts to establish the world’s first Li (NCA) ternary cathode materials manufacturing plant outside of China.
The University of Adelaide is a distinguished research-intensive university in South Australia, established in 1874, offering high quality research, postgraduate and undergraduate degree programs with strengths in research and development of new energy technologies and materials science.
UniSA is based in South Australia and was established in 1991. UniSA is among the world’s top young universities ranked in the world’s top 50 under 50 years old and has forged a reputation as the University of enterprise through its strong industry research focus.
Next-Gen Energy Technology is helping to build the value chain for sovereign battery manufacturing in Australia by onshoring cathode materials manufacturing using Australian minerals and Australian refining upstream and attracting cell manufacturers downstream, which is in keeping with the Australian Governments National Battery Strategy.
The University of Adelaide and UniSA will play a critical role in independent validation and certification of materials the factory produces and in research of new materials development which will build on this Australian-owned company’s family of patents.
“South Australia is ideally located with all of the minerals we require for manufacturing of Lithium (NCA) active materials, with additional reserves in Western Australia and the Northern Territory,” said Andrew Cooper, CEO of Next-Gen Energy Technology.
“Our partnership with these two leading research institutes will provide pathways for development of new knowledge in materials science and manufacturing methodology, as well as opportunity for graduate students to take key roles in what is a new industry for Australia and the world.”
“We are extremely grateful for the level of co-operation and collaboration shown by the two Universities which sets the platform for a smooth transition as they combine in 2026 to become Australia’s new major university.”
Quotations from Professor Michael Goodsite Pro Vice Chancellor (Research Operations & Commercialisation) University of Adelaide.
“The University of Adelaide is delighted to collaborate with Next-Gen and UniSA on what we believe is a project of national significance. This work highlights the willingness for industry to partner with the research community to progress economic, environmental and social sustainability goals, which align with the University’s own sustainability targets.”
Quotations from Peter Stevens, Director Enterprise Partnerships, University of South Australia.
“As Australia’s University of Enterprise, the University of South Australia is a strong supporter of industry university collaboration. Our relationship with Next-Gen is a significant opportunity to work with an emerging innovator in this critical sector.”
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