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. We do our own research and collate research undertaken by other bodies, run events, creating submissions particularly on energy policy to influence the community and the three levels of politics. Recent blogs include a response to the dismal trifecta of 2035 Climate Targets/Climate Risks report/NW Shelf extension to 2070, and on policy for effective climate action.
Decarbonisation and electrification
While the group primarily focuses on our energy transition, given members’ industry experience, we also discusses agriculture and forestry and the ways that we can reduce emissions and / or increase land based carbon sequestration. We also 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.
Current areas of focus
Energy transition and decarbonisation
Reducing emissions through the energy transition
The Energy Transition Group focusses on the clean energy transition, particularly through research, education and policy submissions.
- ETG promotes strong emissions targets, including advocacy and submissions across three levels of government.
- Members and the group write letters to MPs on topics of concern and following up with meetings where possible.
- Over the last few years the group has facilitated events on Federal energy policy, energy macroeconomics, the Safeguard Mechanism, concerns about carbon credits with Professor Macintosh, and off-shore wind.
- Federal submissions include risks of nuclear energy, and fuel efficiency standards. State submissions include 2035 emissions reduction target, and zero emission bus transition.
Electrification
Electrification, solar and home batteries
The Energy Transition Group supports electrification at home, commercially and across the grid through running events, education and policy submissions.
- Recently ETG facilitated two home battery information nights. You can view the first presentation on YouTube, the second on YouTube Live, and download slide sets from Trent Jones, Russell Williams and David Coote.
- Check out battery homeowner slide sets here and view presentations here and a blog on setter your heat pump hot water timer for even more savings.
- ETG has facilitated events on home electrification including smarts/ EV integration, and lowering energy bills
- ETG is presenting a submission to The Essential Services Commission (ESC) on the Energy Consumer Reforms – Regulatory Impact Statement
Energy Efficiency
Supporting improved energy efficiency to increase home comfort, lower energy bills and meet emissions reductions targets
ETG contributes to submissions supporting improved standards for home owners and renters, and helps run events on energy efficiency.
- Federal submission on residential electrification, and State submission on minimum standards for rental properties.
- Read more about scorecard assessments, draught proofing and electrification here.
- Check out this entertaining short video on insulation and draught proofing
- ETG is preparing material on hot water heat pumps, and a submission to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on the proposed design of the new Victorian Energy Upgrades Ceiling Insulation activity.
- ETG submissions include to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) on the Building Electrification – Regulatory Impact Statement.
Transitioning off gas
Moving our energy system and households away from gas
ETG has a particular interest in the transition away from gas, including the orderly retirement of the gas networks
- Working with VETA on the orderly retirement of the gas networks (VETA is a group of experts from various fields collaborating to provide policy advice on orderly retirement of gas distribution networks. We are focussing on Victoria, with an eye to the broader Australian context. Contributors include; Alan Pears, Craig Memery, David Strang, Freja Leonard, Glen Currie, Jim Crosthwaite and John Godfrey. We acknowledge valuable input from organisations including JEC, Environment Victoria, Friends of the Earth, Lighter Footprints and others.)
- ETG has run events on going electric/getting off gas, check out this short video highlighting reducing the health impacts of gas.
- Submissions on gas include the Victorian State Government’s Gas Substitution Roadmap, Betaloo Basin gas, the gas system code of practice and on the role of ‘renewable’ gas encouraging transition away from fossil fuels.
Information pages
- Home batteries information page – sizing, features tariffs, how to make the best of the 30% government rebate.
- Solar information page, with Yarra Energy Foundation seminars here and here
- 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 and electrification and smart homes.
Register your interest
If you would like to consider contributing to the Energy Transition Group we would grateful if you would fill in the form on this page so we can stay in touch.
You are also welcome to call the ETG Convenor, David Strang, on 0405 506 275, or email Lighter Footprints Convenor Jenny Smithers convenor@lighterfootprints.org to discuss ways that you could be involved.
Interested in the Energy Transition group?
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