ETG – Energy Transition Working Group

The Energy Transition Group (ETG) group consists of members with a broad range of backgrounds brought together by a passion for reducing emissions.  As we are a relatively small group of volunteers we can not undertake research into all areas of emissions reduction, so we also rely on research undertaken by other bodies to help us deliver our messages and to support our cause. We like to think that we make a difference.

While the group primarily focuses on our energy transition, where some members have industry experience, we also discusses agriculture and forestry and the ways that we can reduce emissions and / or increase carbon sequestration in these areas.

However while the task of emissions reductions is enormous, and it is impossible for the group to be across all issues, we can focus on energy industry (electricity, heating, industry, transport) which accounts for about 75% of AU emissions. Electricity is the major contributor (30%) in this segment but is also the leader in decarbonising and electrification will decarbonise much of the energy sector. 

Influencing outcomes

The group focuses on areas where we can make a difference. Assuming that we want to influence individuals, politicians and corporations we need to tailor our messages and methods of communication to be most effective. The ETG works collaboratively with other groups and collates research undertaken by other bodies as well as conducting our own.

Examples of action by the Energy Transition Group or its members are as follows:

• A formal submission as a response to the Combet report, and one on sector emissions reduction and Betaloo Basin gas.
• A submission to the Victorian State Government’s Gas Substitution Roadmap
• Making submissions  and presentations regarding proposed gas import facilities at Westernport and Corio
• Writing leaflets and blog posts on subjects like emissions targets, fossil fuel tax breaks and gas sufficiency in Victoria and community batteries.
• Writing letters to MPs on topics of concern and following up with meetings where possible
• Working with other groups on subjects like transitioning off gas and advocating stronger emission targets

Current focus areas for the group are the transition away from gas, analysing how we can close all brown coal powered generators by 2030, understanding how quickly hydrogen can become part of the transition and planning a community energy project.

Information pages

• Making the switch to clean, efficient household appliances and protecting your families health – with interactive pdf
• Comunity batteries information – sign up to the email list for quarterly updates

Online meetings, projects and working groups

The Energy Transition Group meets twice a month and members provide updates on specific issues enabling the group to be better informed. Members often work in smaller teams for instance on gas, community batteries, electric vehicles, or working on specific presentations to decision makers. Lighter Footprints also runs major events on energy related subjects such as emissions targets, gas-led recovery.