Australian battery pioneer Zenaji named finalist in two national manufacturing awards

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The company has been shortlisted for:

  • Advanced Manufacturing Excellence Award
  • Excellence in Sustainability Award

The Endeavour Awards celebrate leading manufacturers who are building the next generation of Australian industry through engineering, technology and sustainable production. 

For Zenaji, the recognition highlights a different approach to battery technology. Instead of designing systems intended for regular replacement, the company has focused on creating energy storage that can operate safely and reliably for decades. 

At the centre of that approach is Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) battery chemistry, known for its exceptional durability, thermal stability and long operational life. The technology allows batteries to operate with minimal degradation even under demanding conditions. 

This capability is becoming increasingly important as Australia’s electricity system evolves. With more homes, businesses and critical infrastructure relying on battery storage to support renewable energy, safety, reliability and long-term performance are becoming essential. 

Zenaji’s Chief Technology Officer Charles van Dongen said the company’s work has always focused on building energy storage that strengthens Australia’s long-term energy resilience. 

“Energy storage is becoming essential infrastructure,” van Dongen said. 

“Batteries are now being used to support homes, businesses, remote communities and critical systems. That means safety, reliability and longevity matter more than ever.” 

“Technology that lasts decades rather than years reduces waste, lowers long-term costs and strengthens Australia’s energy independence.”

The company’s recognition in the Excellence in Sustainability Award category reflects the environmental advantages of long-life battery systems. Storage technologies designed to operate for decades significantly reduce replacement cycles, material consumption and electronic waste.

Meanwhile, the Advanced Manufacturing Excellence Award nomination recognises Zenaji’s engineering innovation and manufacturing capability within Australia, including advanced battery management systems, modular storage design and high-reliability power systems.

Simon Fawaz, Head of Global Distribution at Zenaji, said the recognition also reflects growing international interest in Australian-developed energy storage technology. 

“Battery storage is becoming a critical part of the global energy transition,” Fawaz said. 

“What we are seeing internationally is a strong demand for technologies that prioritise safety, reliability and longevity, not just short-term capacity.” 

“Recognition like this helps showcase Australian engineering on the global stage and highlights the role companies like Zenaji can play in supplying long-life energy storage solutions to markets around the world.” 

The awards come at a time when Australia is rapidly expanding its energy storage capacity to support the transition to renewable electricity. 

Industry analysts expect battery storage to play a central role in stabilising electricity networks, storing solar energy and improving resilience during extreme weather events and grid disruptions. 

Van Dongen said recognition from the Endeavour Awards reinforces the importance of maintaining strong advanced manufacturing capability within Australia. 

“Australia has the talent and the engineering capability to lead in energy technology,” he said. 

“Being recognised alongside other innovative manufacturers is a huge honour for our team and a reminder that Australian manufacturing still has a vital role to play in the future energy system.” 

The Manufacturers’ Monthly Endeavour Awards are held annually to recognise outstanding achievements across Australia’s manufacturing sector.

Winners will be announced at the 2026 Endeavour Awards ceremony in Brisbane later this year.