• Japanese tech giant Sharp signs MoU with Queensland’s ESI Asia Pacific to co-develop next-generation energy storage.
• The partnership includes a proof-of-concept with The University of Queensland, backed by targeted research funding.
• Initiative positions Queensland as a global leader in scalable, low-cost, long-duration battery innovation.
• Zinc-air flow batteries are emerging as a game-changing solution for grid stability and decarbonisation.

Osaka, Japan – Brisbane, Australia, Oct 2, 2025 - (JCN Newswire) - Japanese electronics leader Sharp Corporation and Queensland-based energy innovator Energy Storage Industries – Asia Pacific (ESI) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-develop cutting-edge zinc-air flow battery technology, marking a major milestone in global energy storage innovation.

The MoU was signed at the Australia Pavilion at World Expo 2025 in Osaka, witnessed by Tak Adachi, Queensland’s Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner for North Asia.

The partnership was facilitated by Trade and Investment Queensland, reinforcing the state’s role as a global connector in clean energy collaboration.

Tak Adachi, Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner, North Asia said the partnership reflects the kind of forward-thinking collaboration that defines the relationship between Japan and Queensland that’s been highlighted throughout World Expo 2025 Osaka.

“By combining Japanese innovation with Queensland’s research and deployment strengths, we are laying the groundwork for scalable, sustainable energy solutions that can serve markets across the Indo-Pacific and beyond,” Mr Adachi said.

“This project reflects the strength of Australia-Japan technology ties and the shared commitment to building resilient, low-emission energy systems.

“By connecting world-class Japanese technology with Queensland’s energy expertise and research capability, we’re accelerating the future of sustainable power—and creating jobs and investment opportunities for our state.”

Bringing together Sharp’s world-class leadership in electrochemical systems and ESI’s proven track record in deploying long-duration energy storage infrastructure, the collaboration will begin with a technical proof-of-concept project in partnership with The University of Queensland. This phase will be supported by targeted research funding and a dedicated research position.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with ESI, made possible by the support of the State of Queensland,” said Norio Ito, Senior Vice President, Head of Corporate Research & Development Group, Sharp Corporation.

“This partnership will enable us to integrate the technologies of both companies, with the goal of accelerating the research and development of zinc-air flow batteries and contributing to the realisation of a carbon neutral society."

The project will explore the viability of zinc-air flow batteries as a safe, sustainable alternative to lithium-based systems, offering longer storage durations, lower costs, and enhanced compatibility with renewable energy sources.

Energy Transition Technologies (ETT), a subsidiary of ESI who is driving the commercial R&D and technology development in Australian decarbonisation says they’re excited to be working with such an innovative partner as Sharp.

“Building off over 100 years of Sharp’s product innovation, this MoU signals not only collaboration between Sharp and ESI but also between Japan and Queensland," said Justin Begg, CEO Energy Transition Technologies who leads the development program.

“We thank the State of Queensland, and in particular Trade and Investment Queensland, for their support in developing this relationship and we look forward to the mutually beneficial outcomes that will come."

Following the initial proof-of-concept phase, Sharp and ESI intend to pursue additional research grants and advance toward commercialisation—positioning Queensland as a global hub for next-generation energy storage.

Images - MoU Signing Serendix/Planum Partners

Media contact:
Anita Duffin
Principal Communications Officer 
Expo 2025, Trade and Investment Queensland
0484 369 222
tiqmedia@tiq.qld.gov.au

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