The $2.5 billion deal to help Australia's biggest aluminium smelter go green will see it act as a kind of giant battery, and unlock the stalemate in the energy transition.

Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns are poised to sign a bailout agreement for the beleaguered Tomago aluminium smelter, ending months of uncertainty for workers.

Australia’s biggest aluminium smelter is set to receive a major bailout package following long-running crisis talks with the federal and NSW governments.