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🌍 Protecting Australia's Future: climate and energy priorities, one key idea from our recent paper At Blueprint Institute, we think the need for long-term thinking, innovative solutions and collaboration is more important than ever. Here's one solution that's high on our wish list: 🛠️Set clear, technology-agnostic biodiversity and environmental standards now. Why do we need clear standards? 1. Technology is changing rapidly. We're living in an incredibly exciting period of technological innovation and development. 2. Our current systems don't yet solve for the long-term, so we have to. Unfortunately, we're also learning that it's foolhardy to treat nature as a limitless resources, rather than a complex system. Deep down, we all get that. We know when you chuck cane toads onto an island, it doesn't go well. So we have to start to change our approach, and put some sensible guidelines in place for all technologies about what our no-go biodiversity hotspots are, what our expectations are for end-of-life recycling, what is and isn't acceptable in terms of waste and pollution. Why now? 3. It's cheaper to do it now. Putting standards in place after technologies are already rolling out is not only difficult, it's costly and inefficient. But doing it now, means we, as tax payers, won't have to pay cascading costs of downstream impacts on our biodiversity, water, soil, food-supply and health. Doing it early means avoiding companies having to retrospectively redesign their approach to meet standards that should have been clearly articulated in the first place. Businesses craves structure–setting clear, predictable rules of the game that don't chop and change boosts investment in long-term infrastructure. 4. It's easier to do it now. Getting started without clear standards, sets up the wrong incentives for governments who are reluctant to turn off sources of revenue, and for companies, who may lobby to keep standards low. I can think of at least one state government who was just going to do a 'little trial' of fracking and see what the impacts were before setting clear standards, but many billions of revenue later, they're strangely reluctant to do so. That's very human. With a 3 year term, and a tight budget, most governments struggle to really behave with the long-term view in mind. But it doesn't make it smart long-term policy. The time is now to put robust, clear standards in place and stick to them. Terence Jeyaretnam Jae Lubberink Ian Hancock Lachlan Crombie Sophie Black Claire Poulton Harry Guinness Josh Steinert BA MSc Sam Mellett Grant Rule Andrew Muston Blueprint Institute

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Is political ideology trumping engineering & science in Australias’s green energy transition? The many questions re the validity of the annual GenCost report, which for the first time assesses the cost of adding nuclear energy into the grid.

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The National Energy Research Institute's submission to the Science System Advisory Group is available online, https://lnkd.in/gzApV2Xq Our key submission is the need to get better alignment between NZ's public investments in Science, Innovation and Technology (SI&T) and the needs of research-intensive Sectors in New Zealand. We make high level proposals on how to achieve this. We also argue for greater emphasis to be placed on innovation at the industry/Sector/value chain level.

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Hydrovoltaic generation using seawater might be a good baseload component for the electricity generation mix here in Aotearoa, accelerating transition. Purely speculatively, I also wonder whether it could be used to improve the economics of effluent treatment (using fluids other than seawater in that case).

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The draft GenCost 2024-25 Report, an annual assessment of Australia’s future electricity generation costs, was released today by CSIRO and Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).   It estimates costs for new build electricity generation and storage and found renewables continue to have the lowest cost range of any new-build electricity generation technology, for the seventh year in a row.   KEY TAKEWAYS *Large scale solar photovoltaics (PV) capital costs have fallen 8% two years in a row.  *Battery costs recorded the largest annual reduction with capital costs falling 20%.  *Gas turbine costings increased 11%. *Nuclear energy generation would be 1.5 to over two times more expensive than large-scale solar Waiting decades for nuclear energy which is twice as expensive as renewable energy is an exercise in delay in climate action.  The primary winners arecoal and gas, the losers are people and planet. Time to move on and accelerate the renewable energy rollout.  https://lnkd.in/gxAxqXjR

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This week, we were pleased to join the Electricity Engineers'​ Association of New Zealand (EEA) and other industry partners to launch the publication of findings from the first phase of the FlexTalk project. The FlexTalk project made the recommendation that the electricity sector adopt a standardised protocol for communication and data exchange to address challenges in achieving widespread engagement in demand flexibility. “This work is a step towards integrating smart technologies and distributed energy resources, ensuring mutual benefits for all stakeholders,” said EECA CE Marcos Pelenur. The joint project by the EEA and EECA has published its final industry report, along with a technical insights document. The project concluded that any adopted protocol should provide standardised functionalities, including real-time data exchange, interoperability, security, scalability, maintainability, platform independence, backward and forward compatibility, and non-proprietary characteristics. Currently, only two internationally recognised communication protocols – OpenADR and IEEE 2030.5 – fulfil this criteria. “Demand flexibility is key to our energy future, requiring effective integration and management of consumer energy resources,” EEA Chief Executive Peter Berry. The full report is now available here: https://lnkd.in/gDYpJycr

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If you come across anyone interested in learning about ASIC Miner Repair, please send them this video. At the end, we have a survey accessible with the QR code or the link in the comments section: https://rb.gy/zphzcl #education #highereducation #blockchain #bitcoin #bitcoinminer #repair #pcb https://lnkd.in/gBbY6Vws

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🤝 Harnessing the Power of Collaboration to Accelerate Meaningful Change ⚡ Eight electricity distribution businesses (EDBs) teamed up with four global innovators to explore and demonstrate the value of low-voltage (LV) data in delivering better services to electricity consumers. A summary of the initiative's outcomes is available here: https://lnkd.in/gzC8z95y The EDBs involved found that granular LV data - covering both consumption and power quality - along with the tools to effectively use it, are valuable additions to their asset management plans, helping to improve network safety and efficiency while also reducing costs for customers. However, this data is difficult for EDBs to access, expensive to purchase, and challenging to manage due to contractual obligations. The participants in this initiative are recommending the development of: 🔓 Fit-for-purpose policies and regulations to enable ease of data access. 🛠️ Fit-for-purpose policies and regulations to enable ease of data use. Thank you to all the EDB Challenge participants: Aurora Energy Limited New Zealand Counties Energy Orion NZ Ltd Powerco The Lines Company Unison Networks Ltd Waipā Networks Wellington Electricity Elemental Impact ANSA Future Grid GRIDSIGHT Plexigrid Electricity Networks Aotearoa Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) Commerce Commission

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Two Macquarie University academics have been awarded funding under the Electrification & Energy Systems Network (EESN) Seed Grant round, which supports projects focused on reducing carbon emissions through electrification. “Winning this grant is a fantastic milestone for our team. The funding will help us refine our prototype, achieve certification, and bring our vision to life. It is a pivotal step toward delivering a solution that empowers homeowners to maximise their renewable energy usage while contributing to a more sustainable future,” says Dr Foad Taghizadeh. Dr Foad Taghizadeh’s project with industry partner, Smartizer, involves developing an AI-driven energy management platform with a modular, plug-and-play battery system that integrates with EV chargers and solar inverters. Dr Deilami says, “This funding will support the development of innovative solutions to address challenges in electric infrastructure.” Dr Deilami’s project with industry partner, Stryder, involves using an artificial intelligence algorithm to optimise the efficiency of electric shuttle (e-shuttle) bus routes and battery capacity, to create a more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable transportation system. #MacquarieUniversity

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There's an incredible opportunity going at the moment, for grants in the energy innovation space. Want to solve complex energy transition related policy challenges, demonstrate new technologies, or strengthen Canberra's energy innovation ecosystem? The Energy Innovation Fund Grants are a potential opportunity for you! ⚡ ⚡ #energyinnovation #energytransition #electrification

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PERMISSION TO ORCHESTRATE! Fantastic research from our RACE for 2030 PhD student Aleksandra Van Hummel and supervisor Prof. Rebekah Russell-Bennett looking at Australian householder perceptions of demand-side management. Cliff notes? More research that shows building trust is going to be vital for the energy transition! Based on the research, a third of customers are OK for DSM, a third need to know more and a third outright reject it. It doesn’t matter whether you couch it in environmental, social or economic benefits – a chunk of householders don’t trust networks to do the right thing. We’re going to have to provide information, options and work with different customers in different ways to bring everyone on the journey. Thanks so much to Matt Newey and Essential Energy (a network!) for providing the vision and support for this industry-informed research Check out the report and webinar! #energyresearch #CER #CERorchestration

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The Essential Services Commission annual Victorian Energy Market Report, published last week, includes a focus on how energy retailers respond to payment difficulties. The report shows fewer customers being disconnected—a very good thing—but it also shows more people are experiencing financial stress: 🔎 Eight percent of electricity and gas customers missed a bill payment each month in 2023–24. This was an increase of 18,000 electricity and 16,000 gas customers compared to 2022–23. 🔎 Around five percent of electricity and gas customers owed their retailer at least $300 each month in 2023–24. This was an increase of around 20,000 electricity and 14,000 gas customers compared to 2022–23, with more than half not receiving payment difficulty assistance from their retailer. 🔎 While more customers are receiving assistance such as payment plans, almost half exit payment plans due to non-compliance, with great inconsistency across retailers. This data raises questions about the suitability and effectiveness of those payment plans offered by retailers. Energy retailers must provide assistance to residential customers to help them avoid getting into arrears and assist those who are in arrears. It is important that retailers communicate effectively with customers experiencing difficulty paying their energy bills rather than placing too much reliance on disconnection warning notices. The latest data is all on our Energy Market Dashboard: https://lnkd.in/gBDutUxu Victorian Energy Market Report: https://lnkd.in/g3CNvKN3 News Update: https://lnkd.in/gGM8DTAc Also covered by today's The Australian newspaper: https://lnkd.in/gP5iBgfz

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📣 Fascinated to be invited to The Australian Energy Nation Forum today. The LNP's Nuclear policy is lunacy and greenwashing on an epic scale, aimed at derailing our crucial renewables transition - and reigniting the climate war 🙅‍♂️ And it's so sad to see it dominating the headlines and discussion today. Jim Chalmers, Australia's Treasurer, hit the nail on the head: "This might be the single dumbest energy policy ever put forward by a political party.” Saul Griffith, a global leader on energy policy, said poignantly "It's unscientific to talk about climate change and not consider nuclear as part of the mix." But we should be legislating for, and investing in, fusion energy that doesn't create nuclear waste or nuclear risk, and accept that it's a post-2030 solution for offshore markets that don't have Australia's natural advantages for renewables now. Warren McKenzie & HB11 Energy Australia is poised to be a renewable energy superpower, driving advanced manufacturing and a sustainable future. We have the resources to lead in clean energy and critical minerals for a low-carbon economy, while ensuring reliable and cheaper energy sources. It'll be interesting learning from, meeting, and/or disagreeing with some of these people 🙃 The Hon. Chris Bowen MP Minister for Climate Change and Energy of Australia The Hon. Ted O'Brien MP Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Senator the Hon. Jenny McAllister  Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy The Hon. David Littleproud MP Leader of the Federal National Party Allegra Spender MP Federal Member for Wentworth Anna Collyer Chair, Energy Security Board (ESB) Craig Stallan Executive General Manager, Lumea Mark McCallum Chief Executive Officer, Low Emission Technology Australia David Gillespie Managing Director, Jemena Adam Watson Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, APA Group Cecile Wake Country Chair and Senior Vice President Integrated Gas, Shell Australia Matt Halliday Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ampol Robert Spurway Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, GrainCorp Richard Wrightson Chief Executive, Delta Electricity Tania Constable Chief Executive Officer, Minerals Council of Australia Frank Calabria Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Origin Energy Hopefully The Australian is able to report the facts of these discussions correctly, and not just push a problematic political narrative 💡🔋 What do you think? Like & comment and let me know! Especially if you disagree 🔥 #Energy #RenewableEnergy #NetZero #Technology

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Did you see the latest RACE for 2030 newsletter and its profile on QUT (Queensland University of Technology)’s Benchmarking Customer Priorities and trust report? The report builds on the great work of Energy Efficiency Council, The Australia Institute, CSIRO and others, but one particularly nice kernel is the below, and the suggestion that a customer-driven energy transition needs to go beyond the energy sector’s perspective of priorities for the transition being around the #energytrilemma of ‘reliability, affordability and clean energy’ (ahem..) to a ‘customer energy trust bundle’ that also includes clarity of information, assistance for the vulnerable, positive engagement when interfacing with the energy system (eg in outages), and a long-term energy vision for the future. So… ? CUSTOMERS WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE ENERGY TRANSITION! <3 Thanks Prof. Rebekah Russell-Bennett for leading this work! #customerview #energychoice  https://lnkd.in/gqPTBKbp

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New hydrogen micro-credential courses developed by Deakin University and Engineering Education Australia (EEA) will provide critical skills to help reach Australia's net zero and clean energy targets. The program, which features four micro-credential courses and one webinar, will focus on upskilling workers across industries including energy, transport and government, to propel Australia's hydrogen economy. The partnership between Deakin University and EEA was formed in 2022 following research from Deakin's hydrogen technology hub Hycel into the development and strengthening of a prosperous hydrogen workforce. Hycel Director Professor Tiffany Walsh says: “This builds on Deakin’s track record in hydrogen education, including in primary and secondary schools, with our TAFE partners in vocational training, for emergency response workers, and now for engineers to confidently design, plan, build and operate hydrogen systems.” https://lnkd.in/gwqmCNVz

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I have shouted at the wind on this site a number of times that entities like Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) need to acknowledge that what they are responsible for, is the equivalent of Electrification a century ago. That transition involved an extensive public education process. The effort put into social learning was on the same scale as that put into the technical engineering (and government financing). There was the acknowledgement that the infrastructure transition was only going to work if people were brought along with it, if communities were helped developing new practices, adopting new values, and taking into account new risks. One of the key transition mechanisms for rural electrification was giving communities effective ownership of the new energy systems through cooperatives. Electrification 2.0 is perhaps a harder transition because it is not moving from no-electricity to electricity, which is patently systems change, but instead shifting baked-in habits and mental models associated with the old unsustainable electrical system. For 100 years, households were told 'it comes to you so set and forget because it can kill you; it will always be on so use it whenever, but be thrifty lest you get retrospective bill shock.' The coming distributed energy system, where households and small businesses act not just as energy consumers, but also producers, storers, distributes, and 'grid balancers,' displaces or reverses every one of these entrained everyday sociotechnics. The unlearning and learning that people need to be HELPED to do is vast. But instead the transition is being approached in the most risk-averse manner under the fantasy that the body politic can be price-spiked into change. The sole theory of change seems to be more neoliberalism. Everyone claims to be a customer-advocate with too few doing the hard social research of working with households and communities over the long term, treating people, you and me, as partners in value-creation. There should be, for example, as many anthropologists and sociologists working at AEMC, as non-social researchers. And as with Electrification a century ago, the AEMC should be a major commissioner of cultural productions - posters, movies, deliberative democracy town halls, school curricula, etc.

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In this week's episode of the podcast we hear from James Bradley, former CTO of Diffuse Energy. Diffuse was a micro-wind turbine business that Bradley and co-founder Dr Joss Kesby decided to end this year. A big thanks to James for sharing their story. Imho we don't do enough to acknowledge that moving technology from lab to market is a very difficult thing to do and it doesn't always work. It's still important that folks are brave enough to try. This episode is proudly brought to you by ECI Software Solutions. Episode guide 1:24 – Career shift. Big box retail then mature age engineering student at age 32. 3:13 – Meeting Joss and being involved with his work in the second half of Joss’s PhD. 3:52 – A concept for a very small turbine and forming a team to explore commercialisation of this via CSIRO ON. 5:40 – A diffuser-augmented turbine and “unravelling the horrendous mathematics” involved in design and simulation. 7:40 – Early applications involving luxury yachts. 8:35 – Changing focus to telecommunications tower applications. 9:30 – An ARENA-backed, multi-site project focussed on telco towers, why they thought it was needed, and some of the difficulties involved. 11:20 – Having to design a controller that would handle difficult weather events. Then COVID happened in 2020 and made the project move very slowly. 13:03 – The trial and the results gathered. Developing a tool for more accurately predicting wind speed on sites. 15:10 – “Yes, wind turbines can work on remote sites. Probably not as many as you’d hope for. They’ve got to be a pretty good site to make sense. But also we came up with a way of validating sites… pretty accurately”. 15:55 – The great global semiconductor shortage of the early 2020s and why there was no possibility of building what’s needed here. 17:05 – The type of MOSFET products used in their controllers were “unicorns”, which made them hard to replace when the supply chain broke. 23:04 – The lessons in this that are worth sharing, including in electronics design. 24:10 – We are probably not great at accepting the fact that commercialising scientific breakthroughs isn’t always going to be a success. 25:24 – Fundamental research is important, and its contribution to progress won’t be immediately apparent. 26:50 – The two co-founders’ friendship has survived the end of the business. “We’ll have a wake for Diffuse Energy soon.” 27:55 – Yes, he would do another startup. There isn’t the variety or the same chance of building “the world’s best something” in a big, established company. 28:50 – Current work with University of Newcastle on accelerator and pre-accelerator programs, which are available to regional businesses as well as spinouts. 30:17 – Is there a chance the invention might be used at a different business? #manufacturing #australianmanufacturing #spinouts #commercialisation #startup #supplychain #semiconductorindustry

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