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Securing reliable energy at affordable prices is a significant challenge for Hunter households and businesses. The Newcastle Institute’s August Forum will present options for how we can take control of our energy usage and costs now, and position ourselves for future energy challenges.
Discussing our energy future will be two experts in energy: Dr Stephen White and Mr Gavin Gilchrist. Stephen leads CSIRO’s energy efficiency research and is a Program Leader in the Low Carbon Living CRC. He is renowned for research into air-conditioning and building thermal design, and is responsible for the NatHERS benchmark software tool, for rating residential home energy efficiency. Gavin is a sustainability consultant with 20 years’ experience in energy efficiency focusing on identifying and delivering energy efficiency and renewable projects. For 14 years Gavin was Director and founder of energy efficiency company, Big Switch Projects, which provided advice to business, governments and households on how to save energy through improved lighting, hot water systems, air conditioning and building design.
Making decisions about securing energy which is reliable, affordable and environmentally sustainable is complex for households and businesses. For many years energy policy has been confused and politicised, market and pricing mechanisms are constantly changing and lack transparency, and technology is advancing. As populations rise and extreme weather events are more frequent as the climate warms, demand for energy is increasing. In this complex environment, households and business energy bills have increased significantly, creating an unaffordable burden for many.
Despite this complexity there are steps households and businesses can take to ensure reliable and affordable energy. Our experts will discuss current policy, market and pricing mechanisms for ensuring secure, affordable and sustainable energy for households and business. They will also present options as to how households and businesses can position themselves for future energy needs.
Open to the Public – All welcome
What? Public Forum – Taking control of our energy future
When? 6.00 – 7.30pm, Wednesday 8thAugust
Where?Souths Leagues Club, Merewether
Who? Open to the general public. Members – entry is free; Non-members – Admission $10
Use the button at right to register