Finding good solutions at the energy summit
COAL, gas and renewable energy leaders will join local, state and federal politicians in Toowoomba for the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise’s National Energy Summit.
With energy supply and use in Australia continually changing, a forum is being held to debate the ‘trilemma’ of finding an energy mix that is reliable, affordable and sustainable.
TSBE executive chairman Shane Charles said the inaugural National Energy Summit would address issues in relation to policy development and chart a roadmap for a sustainable energy future for Australia.
“We know that electricity prices are climbing and we often hear that gas is a reason for this. We want to hold a conference to explore how we can achieve a more sustainable, reliable and cost-effective energy mix in Australia,” Mr Charles said.
“What is clear is that the energy debate in the country is convoluted, difficult and has traditionally dealt with populist short-term solutions rather than long-term structural change.
“The state and federal governments have differing policies on energy and as such we feel it’s important to have them in the room so we can truly understand their positions.”
Mr Charles said there was no doubt the Surat Basin was the strongest energy region in Australia with a mix of coal, gas and renewable projects, and more projects coming online this year.
“Because of coal and gas development in the region, we have become a hub for renewables. It is about 25% cheaper to connect to the electricity grid in the Surat Basin because of the extensive electricity network we have as a result of the 10 gas and coal-fired power stations in the region.”
The National Energy Summit is also a chance to highlight the good work being done in the Surat Basin, and to show how the region can be an example for the rest of Australia.
“The energy debate is currently raging across the east coast of Australia and anyone interested in energy policy should attend, as we hear from both the political and industry experts on what they believe the solutions are.”
Mr Charles said the event was expected to host attendees across a range of industries, especially large-scale businesses and producers where electricity prices were a significant operational concern.
Find out more at www.tsbe.com.au/events/ national-energy-summit.