Clean energy from carbon waste

The Australian Research Council (ARC) Research Hub in Zero-Emission Power Generation for Carbon Neutrality (ZeroPC Hub) has officially launched.

Prof Jennifer Macleod, Hub Director Prof Zhigang Chen, ARC Academic Director Prof Anika Gauja, QUT Vice Chancellor Prof Margaret Sheil, Ms Madonna Jarrett MP, CEO of Halocell Energy Paul Moonie, and Hub Deputy Director Prof Hongxia Wang standing in a row inside the event venue. Behind them is a large blue display with text “the university for the real world” and diagrams, as well as scientific posters.

QUT Deputy Dean (Faculty of Science) Prof Jennifer Macleod, Hub Director Prof Zhigang Chen, ARC Academic Director Prof Anika Gauja, QUT Vice Chancellor Prof Margaret Sheil, Member for Brisbane Ms Madonna Jarrett MP, CEO of Halocell Energy Paul Moonie and Hub Deputy Director Prof Hongxia Wang at the official launch of the ARC Research Hub in Zero-Emission Power Generation for Carbon Neutrality (ZeroPC Hub). Image Credit: Supplied. 

Building a sustainable future

The mission of this new Hub is to develop zero-emission power generation technologies that harvest renewable energy from the environment and store it in green, safer batteries. This stored energy will power advanced processes that convert carbon dioxide and other gaseous waste into useful chemicals, working to achieve carbon neutrality for the benefit of our planet in scalable ways – even carbon negativity. 

The impact of this research will be game-changing. By developing advanced technologies and innovative knowledge, ZeroPC will strengthen Australia’s research and manufacturing capabilities, positioning it as a global leader in renewable energy and carbon conversion. These breakthroughs will reduce environmental impact, stimulate new industries, create commercialisation opportunities and generate economic growth.

For Australia’s future

ARC Academic Director, Social, Behavioural and Economic Sciences Professor Anika Gauja attended the launch and highlighted the importance of this work.  

‘Research like this is crucial because it’s about making renewable energy more efficient, affordable, and reliable for everyone. The benefits of the work being done here at ZeroPC will reach far beyond the lab or energy sector,’ Professor Gauja said. 

‘Advances in clean energy and materials mean lower costs, new jobs, and a cleaner environment for all Australians. And by supporting local manufacturing and technology companies with new tools and knowledge, ZeroPC will help Australian businesses compete globally while building a well-equipped workforce in energy innovation.’

The Hub has already hit the ground running with the launch of its website and communication platforms, making research updates and opportunities accessible to partners and the public. It has also established a dynamic team of researchers, professional staff, and students.  

ARC Academic Director Prof Anika Gauja speaking at the official launch of the ARC Research Hub in Zero-Emission Power Generation for Carbon Neutrality (ZeroPC Hub). Image Credit: Supplied. 

Next steps

Looking ahead, ZeroPC is focused on delivering its first demonstrator prototypes for energy-efficient devices and materials, publishing high-impact research that strengthens Australia’s leadership in zero-emission technologies, and expanding training opportunities for PhD students and early-career researchers. 

The ARC Research Hub in Zero-Emission Power Generation for Carbon Neutrality is a significant step toward meeting Australia’s net-zero targets. 

Learn more about the work of the ARC Research Hub in Zero-Emission Power Generation for Carbon Neutrality.