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Mining & Resources

Energy generation (utility-scale) - R&D Tax Benchmark

What proportion of total business expenses do Australian energy generation (utility-scale) typically claim as R&D under the RDTI?

Typical range
0–5%
Direct (core) R&D as % of expenses
Elevated but plausible
up to 15%
Still defensible with strong evidence
Unusual - review carefully
> 30%
May still be valid; expect AusIndustry scrutiny
Supporting R&D
0–3%
Indirect / supporting activities

What drives R&D intensity in this sector

Operating utilities have low intensity; R&D is concentrated in pilot projects.

Sector disclaimer

Day-to-day generation operations are not R&D. Pilot deployments need clear experimental scope.

ATO & AusIndustry context

Standard commissioning is excluded; novel first-of-kind systems may qualify.

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Educational benchmark only - not an eligibility test or tax advice. Final eligibility depends on whether your activities meet the s.355-25 / s.355-30 core and supporting R&D definitions and is determined by AusIndustry on registration.