Bianca Graham GAICD

It appears the stars are aligning for companies such as Bass which are turning to gas developement and production to service the Australian east coast gas market. This is a significant growth opportunity. https://lnkd.in/gKXiuSy9

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Today I had the opportunity to speak at a conference in Launceston, which is focused on renewable energy and other development opportunities in Bell Bay, Northern Tasmania. It’s an exciting time for renewable energy development in our region, but with great opportunity comes the responsibility to do things right. Genuine community engagement isn’t just a box to tick—it’s the foundation for sustainable, meaningful, and trusted partnerships between developers and the communities they operate in. I spoke about the 3P Advisory approach where we believe that successful projects are built on understanding and aligning with the values, aspirations, and concerns of local people. I shared our 5-stage engagement approach, which is designed to foster collaboration and trust:
1) Context and Connection – Understanding the unique characteristics of each community.
2) Timing and Sequencing – Engaging at the right time and in the right way for maximum impact.
3) Framing and Narrative – Using language that is jargon free, open and invites dialogue and respects the way of life of local people. 4) Project Flexibility – Adapting to feedback and being open to compromise.
5) Trust and Shared Purpose – Building relationships that last beyond the project's lifespan. This framework isn’t just about achieving project goals; it’s about creating long-term value for everyone involved. Renewable energy projects have the potential to contribute to shaping the future of Northern Tasmania, and contribute to Tasmanian, national and global sustainable development goals. But they must be developed with the community at the heart of the process. Let’s prioritise people, place, and purpose (3P!) as we navigate this critical energy transition. @Informa BBAMZ

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📣 EESN Seed Grant Winners Announced 📣    We are thrilled to announce the WINNERS of the #NSW Government's Electrification & Energy Systems Network Seed Grant Scheme! ⚡️ Announced today by the Hon. Penny Sharpe, Minister for NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water...   These groundbreaking projects, awarded $2.9 million in total, are all leading with an innovative and collaborative approach to #electrification and #decarbonisation.    Each project addresses critical challenges and paves the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future 🌱 Read the Minister's release below! Learn more about each winning project: https://lnkd.in/gswn4wNE   🏆 Congratulations to our awardees:    ⚡ University of Wollongong: Identifying and Removing Barriers for Electricity  System Planning    ⚡ UNSW: Developing device electrification functionality for the APVI's SunSPOT solar and battery calculator    ⚡ University of Technology Sydney: Cost-effective wireless energy harvesting from high voltage transmission lines    ⚡ Macquarie University: Powering E-Shuttles with Optimised Routes and Magnetised Cement Charging    ⚡ University of Sydney: Recycling of Lithium from Discarded Battery Materials    ⚡ Macquarie University: AI-driven energy management platform    ⚡ UNSW: Open Platform for Real-time Renewable Energy Bidding and Trading    These projects exemplify innovation and collaboration between academia and industry, driving us closer to our Net Zero targets and a greener future. 🌱    Stay tuned for updates on these exciting initiatives and their impact on our energy landscape.      ⚡About EESN⚡  As part of the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub, the Electrification and Energy Systems Network (EESN) is dedicated to advancing electrification technologies and solutions, enhancing energy efficiency, and supporting the NSW transition to sustainable energy systems across industry, government and community.   This initiative is generously funded by the NSW Environmental Trust and our Network Partners; University of Newcastle, UNSW, University of Wollongong, University of Technology Sydney and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. #Innovation #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #OpenInnovation

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An Australian Energy Producers (AEP) commissioned report by EnergyQuest has revealed the “major economic disruption” to the east coast economy under the Australian Greens proposal to ban new gas investments and highlights "the critical need for new gas supply” (Ms McCulloch, CEO, AEP). 3D Energi is positioning itself to be able to deliver much needed gas into the east coast market, having recently released a conceptual Otway gas development scenario ahead of the drilling of up to 6 exploration wells in the offshore Otway Basin, operated by Joint Venturer ConocoPhillips Australia. Under the scenario, a conceptual gas development hub could be unlocked by commercial success in southern VIC/P79 during 2025 exploration drilling. Drill targets are low risk and near to existing fields and infrastructure. Northern and southern development pathways may be unlocked by exploration step-outs into northern VIC/P79 and T/49P, to the south, through further drilling as part of the Otway Exploration Drilling Program. For more information, please refer to our latest announcement here: https://lnkd.in/eC7Su5R2 #TDO #3denergi #gas #eastcoastgas #Otway #exploration

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The lack of proper #fauna and #flora studies and inadequate #community #engagement has led to massive opposition against large-scale renewable projects (83% are against these projects in the Have YourSay survey: https://lnkd.in/gp_SCbzC). It should not come as a surprise because altering the #environment and #lifestyle of communities and #FirstNations peoples, and interfering with #nature inevitably triggers backlash. When projects of such magnitude are proposed without thorough consideration of their impact on local #ecosystems and without involving the affected communities in decision-making processes, it disrupts established ways of life. It raises valid concerns about #environmental degradation and loss of #cultural #heritage. This resistance reflects an instinct to protect the #environment and #traditions, especially when they feel their interests and voices are not adequately represented or respected in the planning and implementation of these projects. To address these challenges, The Community Engagement Review led by Andrew Dyer made recommendations including establishing independent rating schemes for #developers, implementing clearer project zoning, and prioritizing genuine community benefit sharing and communication programs, underscoring the crucial role of building trust and integrating community engagement efforts into project development. Coalition for Conservation Inc. Australian Wildlife Conservancy UN Biodiversity The Biodiversity and Climate Change Network (BCCN). United Nations Steven Nowakowski Animals Australia Bush Heritage Australia Landcare Australia American Conservation Coalition Nature Conservation Council NSW Ben Goldsmith

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Do you want to learn about shared ownership? Shared ownership gives community groups the chance to make an investment in a commercially owned renewable energy project. Visit our shared ownership hub to learn more👇 https://lnkd.in/dgGSdCp5

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Does your community group need solar, a battery or to get off gas? Ausgrid's Electrification Grants are up! They say they: "support our communities to make the switch and benefit from the opportunities of electrification. Whether it be from reducing your power bills, or your greenhouse emissions, to improving the air quality in your environment. There are many ways electrification can support our communities, which is why we’re offering grants of up to $15,000 to help organisations access these benefits. Looking for inspiration? Below are a few examples of how these grants could do good in your community. - Purchasing of induction portable cooktops for community kitchens - Replacing gas appliance for electric in community housing to improve air quality for chronic asthma suffers - Helping not-for-profits go electric and cut costs on fuel with Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure - Installing batteries to maximise use of Solar" https://lnkd.in/g-mnjsrJ

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As momentum for the energy transition continues to grow, it's important we're bringing the community and industry along in this once in a generation change. The CEDA - Committee for Economic Development of Australia NSW Energy Outlook last week provided a platform to hear from policy makers and industry leaders on NSW's energy market, and share insights in our efforts to reach net zero. The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)'s 2024 Integrated System Plan, highlights the need for 6GW of generation capacity to be installed each year to 2030, double the current rate of investment of 3-4GW a year. Customers also play a vital role in optimising existing capacity on distribution networks, allowing for smarter network investment. The co-ordination of Customer Energy Resources (CER), such as rooftop solar, batteries, electric vehicles, hot water heaters and pool pumps, is a growing area of focus. Thanks to CEDA - Committee for Economic Development of Australia for providing a forum for industry collaboration, and Kellie Charlesworth for facilitating the invaluable discussion. Photo of Kelly Wood Ausgrid's Group Executive Transmission Development & Growth, joined by Penny Sharpe, NSW Minster for Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Heritage, Guy Chalkley CEO Endeavour Energy (NSW), Damien Nicks MD AGL, Brett Redman CEO Transgrid and Kellie Charlesworth. #NetZero #EnergyTransition #CleanEnergy

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Australia faces a growing gap between contracted gas supply and demand post-2024, the AER reports. Producers need firm contracts to de-risk new supply, but electrification trends add uncertainty. Energy Action helps businesses secure stable, cost-effective energy solutions.

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David Leitch at RenewEconomy has provided some important insights into the size of the opportunity in the South West Renewable Energy Zone in NSW. As he points out, the region is capable of supporting a significantly larger REZ (in MW) than currently forecast. Why? ✅Highly supportive community ✅Represents the “transmission junction” of Project Energy Connect, HumeLink and VNI West (we like to say that if you threw a dart into the NEM it would land on Dinawan) ✅Excellent wind speeds (materially higher than originally posed by AEMO’s 2022 ISP and draft 2024) ✅Solar irradiance is outstanding. We have always had a high conviction relating to this REZ, and we invested early in our two projects, Dinawan Energy Hub, which is positioned on the key Dinawan substation, and Mallee Energy Hub, on the far west side of the REZ. At that time this REZ was considered inferior to the others, and we are pleased to see it progress more rapidly now. As David points out, the opportunity is far greater – there are a number of other serious, well credentialled developers in the REZ who take community engagement seriously and are passionate about their projects, and we would be happy to collaborate with key stakeholders to unlock the full potential of this fantastic region. The key really comes down to transmission links all the way from Dinawan to Sydney, not just Humelink through to Bannaby Substation. Article: https://lnkd.in/gZYbzXaR #renewableenergyzone #malleeenergyhub #dinawanenergyhub

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Strike announced this morning that it has been awarded Certified Reserve Capacity (CRC) for the 2026 capacity year by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) for our proposed fully integrated 85 MW peaking gas power station, as part of the development of the 100% owned and operated South Erregulla gas field. This comes at a time in Western Australia where investment in new gas power generation is needed to firm renewables and support the phase out of coal fired power generation. The CRC and associated capacity credits form a valuable part of the economics of the project and may provide annualised revenues of $15 - 20 million before the sales of energy generated or ancillary services. Our CEO, Stuart Nicholls, said: “Being awarded the 85 MW of capacity for the 2026 cycle paves the way for South Erregulla’s path to market. The project capitalises on the incremental value that integrated gas to power projects can generate from the spark-spread during peak power prices and WA’s capacity credit mechanism. Upon receiving confirmation of our minimum network access quantity, we look forward to taking a Final Investment Decision. Strike’s proposal to integrate the South Erregulla gas field into a dedicated peaking gas power station to firm local renewable power generation, is a clear demonstration of how Strike is using its gas endowment for a positive impact in Western Australia’s energy transition.” Read the full release here: https://lnkd.in/gbuv8mcM

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The Clean Energy Regulator has opened a consultation on the new unit and certificate registry and proposed a possible carbon exchange trading model. Efficient, deep and transparent carbon markets play an important role in supporting Australia to meet its legislated climate targets of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. To support the future expansion of Australia’s vibrant carbon markets as the result of the reformed Safeguard Mechanism and implementation of new schemes such as the Guarantee of Origin Scheme, the Clean Energy Regulator is seeking feedback from carbon market participants on: its needs and priorities for the establishment of new market infrastructure, including a modern registry, that allows market participants multiple pathways to access carbon markets; and the feasibility and views on a proposed Australian Carbon Credit Unit exchange trading model. Your feedback will help inform the development of key carbon market systems and processes that will facilitate future carbon market growth and efficiency. Read more on our website, including how to have your say and to register your interest for targeted virtual consultation sessions 👉 https://bit.ly/4h2PwvG

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Mackay Sugar leads the way in employing circular economy principles. Their 'Nothing is Wasted' approach transforms by-products like bagasse and molasses into renewable energy and valuable biofuels, supporting not only self-sufficiency but also contributing power back to the national grid. Through initiatives like these, Mackay Sugar not only enhances their operational efficiency but also paves the way for a sustainable future. AgriBusiness Connect’s Circular Economy Program, in partnership with Queensland Government, aims to fund more innovative start-ups looking to create circular economies. Learn more via the link below: https://lnkd.in/gA_hYvCk #CircularEconomyProgram #CircularEconomy #AgriBusinessConnect End Food Waste Australia

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What does it mean to be a woman in energy? Our GM Electricity, Karen Frew was one of four female energy leaders to share their perspective at the Women in Energy: Past/Present/Future event hosted by Manawa Energy in Tauranga this week. During her almost 30 years in the energy industry, Karen has seen a growth in women in the industry, however diversity will be the key to delivering Aotearoa New Zealand’s energy future. Karen: “There’s just so much work ahead of us. The challenge is, how do we get more people into the industry to get this work done? There’s opportunity as an industry to be collaborative. How can we work together to make the industry exciting and appealing?” “Being a woman who is a leader draws other women. There’s opportunity for growth together.” Thanks to Manawa Energy for hosting and fellow speakers Manawa Energy Director Phillippa Harford, Northpower COO Network Josie Boyd and Mercury GM Sustainability Lucie Drummond. #WomenInEnergy #Diversity #ReflectingCommunities #Powerco_NZ Northpower Mercury NZ  James Kilty Stuart Dickson Chris Taylor Jemma Gerring Don Elers Ryno Verster

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Today marks the welcome release of updated planning guidelines for renewable energy projects in New South Wales, with the release of the Renewable Energy Planning Framework.   The framework aims to strike the best balance between a timely energy transition and managing the impacts of projects.   New benefit sharing guidelines are a fundamental component of this framework, designed to ensure that local communities are empowered and supported through reaping the significant economic benefits of hosting renewable energy projects, including a projected $400 million shared over a 25 year period and the creation of local jobs.   The Clean Energy Council’s Dr Nicholas Aberle said the guidelines will play a crucial role in ensuring wind and solar farms in NSW are assessed in a timely manner while helping the state to maintain a reliable electricity supply.   “Clearer guidelines create a more predictable process for the companies seeking to build renewable energy projects as well as for the communities where these projects are proposed to be built, which is a win-win.   “This outcome reflects a significant volume of advocacy work by members and the Clean Energy Council, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to ensure NSW’s energy transition is on track.” #cleanenergy #renewableenergy

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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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