• 2025-04-02
We talk to Sam Wood, Head of Operations & Partnerships at Energy Lab as she gives us an insight into the state of affairs in the Australian Climate Tech ecosystem.
What It Takes to Launch (and Scale) a Climate Tech Startup in Australia
Australia’s climate tech scene is heating up—and EnergyLab is right at the centre of it.
In a recent chat with Sam Wood from EnergyLab, we explored what’s driving success in this space, and what’s still holding us back. EnergyLab supports climate tech startups across the full journey—from ideation to international scale—with a proven track record. In fact, their alumni secured 25% of all climate tech funding in Australia in 2024.
What sets the winners apart? According to Sam, it’s not just about the tech—it’s about commercial viability and real cost-saving benefits. Startups like Allegro Energy and Infravision are thriving thanks to bold innovation paired with clear business value. The right early hires—adaptable people willing to wear multiple hats—also play a crucial role in scaling.
But the path isn’t without bumps. Australia’s corporate culture still lags in embracing startup partnerships, slowing down commercialisation. EnergyLab’s take? Corporate pilot projects—like Allegro’s with Origin—can bridge that gap.
And if you’re not in a startup but want in? EnergyLab’s ecosystem is open. From mentorship to angel investing to their accelerator fund, there are loads of ways to get involved in scaling solutions.
One key message stood out: success in Australia can be a springboard for global impact. And with the right support systems in place, there’s never been a better time to help turn great climate ideas into world-changing solutions.