With the energy transition in full swing, attention has turned to how each sector of society can participate in its own unique way.
Australia’s Community Energy Congress – organised by the Coalition for Community Energy – will take place tomorrow, Wednesday, March 6, and Thursday, March 7, in Sydney, showcasing the central role communities are playing as the nation continues the shift to clean energy.
This year’s congress will focus on the theme of 'Fast, Fair and Vital', particularly concentrating on the speed of transition, the values and outcomes communities desire in the energy transition, and the vital nature energy plays in our everyday lives and businesses.
Exploring new pathways of innovation
Community batteries and microgrids, local finance, partnerships and energy resilience are topics that will all be discussed at the conference.
Independent Federal MP for Mackellar Dr Sophie Scamps and Rewiring Australia founder Dr Saul Griffith will speak at the keynote session.
“To make the clean energy transition we don’t just need new physical infrastructure, but new ways of leading and organising at a community level,” Dr Griffith said.
“I’m constantly inspired by the passion and innovation of community groups driving change in the climate and energy space. It’s households that have the most to benefit from an electrified future - more local jobs, healthier streets, and cheaper energy bills.”
The congress will be followed by a tour of Narara Ecovillage on the Central Coast on Friday, March 8.
The energy self-sufficient village is powered by a microgrid, supported by photovoltaic solar generation with a goal of eventually incorporating 1,052 kW of solar PV and suitable battery storage to support it.
“To get to 100% renewable energy, chances are most of it is going to be done by electricity,” Coalition for Community Energy chair Heather Smith said.
“We're going to use electricity in our homes, in our businesses and in our transport system, and that's tricky for lots of people and community energy groups are one of the best ways to get trusted information and respectful conversations about how to do this and how to make it benefit our communities.
“An Energy Transition simply won't happen without involving people, and unfortunately the energy sector sometimes focuses on its technologies and not on the people it needs to bring along with it.
“Community Energy groups are different. We're working in our communities and we're talking to people all the time about what the energy future might look like.”