Landmark energy program findings set to be revealed

The results of Australia’s groundbreaking Solar Cities projects are set to be revealed as each of the project leaders prepares to meet and share their learnings with industry leaders.

For the first time, key findings and lessons that will drive Australia’s clean energy future will be discussed at the Solar Cities 2012 conference, to be held from 22-25 October at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The conference is organised by Energy IQ in partnership with the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency.

The innovative $7 million Australian Government-funded project has been having a huge impact on communities across the country as trials have been completed to create sustainable living through energy efficiency projects.

The program allowed for efficiency initiatives to be trialled under real-world conditions in communities across Australia, with consortia members from energy retailers, generators, distributors, government, academia and not-for-profit organisations all having a part to play.

Since the projects commenced in 2007, the initiatives have showcased sustainable energy models that helped consumers and retailers to monitor their energy usage and supply, and use energy more wisely. Adelaide, Perth, Townsville, Alice Springs, Central Victoria, Blacktown and Moreland have all taken part in schemes involving activities such as smart meters, PV, smart grid and hot solar.

Some of the key results of the projects so far include:

• Townsville was able to use 37% less energy in 2012 than in 2006;
• Alice Springs provided $5.67 million in funding for residential solar and energy efficiency measures;
• Perth was able to reduce peak time energy use by 20% in year one;
• Adelaide has rolled out 400 in-home displays.

As well as all of the Solar Cities project leaders, the exclusive speaker panel features representatives from the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Clean Energy Finance Corporation, Energex, Ergon Energy, Investec, CitiPower and CSIRO.

The Solar Cities 2012 conference agenda has been tailored to meet the needs of energy retailers, generators and the government sector and will cover topics including reducing energy consumption, influencing customer behaviour, using real-time data, securing funding and using alternative energy sources.

For more information visit www.solarcitiesaustralia.com.au.