Sparc’s Green Hydrogen Pilot Faces Critical Commissioning Phase Ahead

Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant Milestone

Sparc Technologies Limited (ASX – SPN) has marked a significant step forward in its green hydrogen ambitions with the ongoing construction of a first-of-its-kind photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) pilot plant at the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy Campus. The project, a joint venture involving Sparc, Fortescue Ltd, and the University of Adelaide, remains on schedule and within budget, with commissioning expected to begin in July 2025.

The pilot plant represents a breakthrough in green hydrogen production technology, leveraging concentrated solar radiation to split water molecules without the need for traditional electrolysis. This approach promises a scalable, modular, and energy-efficient alternative to conventional methods, potentially reducing costs and infrastructure demands.

Government Endorsement and Funding Support

In a strong endorsement of its innovation, Sparc Hydrogen and the University of Adelaide secured a competitive A$2.75 million grant from the Australian Government’s Economic Accelerator Innovate program shortly after the quarter ended. This funding will support pilot plant operations, research and development, and commercialisation efforts over the next two years, supplemented by matched contributions from Sparc and its partners.

The grant follows earlier seed funding awarded in 2023 and underscores the technology’s commercial potential amid a global push towards sustainable energy solutions. The pilot plant opening ceremony in June attracted key stakeholders, including international collaborators from Japan’s Shinshu University, highlighting the project’s global relevance.

Graphene-Based Coatings Progress

Alongside its hydrogen initiatives, Sparc continues to advance its graphene additive technology, ecosparc®, designed to enhance the performance of epoxy-based anti-corrosion coatings. Field inspections at multiple Australian sites confirmed the coatings’ durability and resistance to cracking, peeling, and rust, supporting ongoing discussions with major coatings manufacturers and asset owners.

Laboratory tests also revealed up to a 60% improvement in corrosion resistance for water-based coatings enhanced with ecosparc®, a promising development given the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to solvent-based products. Sparc anticipates commercial adoption of ecosparc® products during the 2026 financial year, leveraging existing manufacturing capabilities to scale production efficiently.

New Collaborations and Corporate Developments

Sparc has entered a collaboration agreement with Detmold Packaging to develop graphene-enhanced paper packaging products aimed at improving barrier resistance and durability. Detmold’s global footprint and sustainability focus align well with Sparc’s innovation goals.

On the corporate front, Sparc completed a capital raise of approximately A$3.2 million through a share placement and oversubscribed share purchase plan, bolstering its cash position to A$3.3 million as of June 30, 2025. The company also achieved three ISO certifications covering quality, environmental, and occupational health and safety management systems, reflecting its commitment to operational excellence as it scales its graphene technologies.

Looking Ahead

With its green hydrogen pilot plant nearing commissioning and promising advances in graphene-enhanced coatings, Sparc Technologies is positioning itself at the forefront of clean technology innovation. The combination of government backing, strategic partnerships, and successful capital raising provides a solid foundation for the company’s next phase of growth and commercialisation.