September 1, 2014
Future energy trends the focus of SMART forum
Responding to future consumer trends in home energy will be the focus of the NEXT Generation Energy Forum on Monday 1 September.
Organised by the University of Wollongong’s SMART Infrastructure Facility, in partnership with Accenture, the forum will see industry leaders discuss the issues that are likely to impact the sector, how energy will be accessed and consumed in the future and consumer behaviour in the wake of higher energy costs and more options.
Mr Greg Guthridge, Managing Director of Accenture’s Asia Pacific Utilities practice and a panellist at the upcoming energy forum said higher energy costs remain the most important issue on the minds of Australian consumers.
“However, consumers are increasingly diverse in their expectations around value overall. Today, consumers reward providers who offer more choice, digital convenience, and an effort-free experience,” he added.
SMART Honorary Professorial Fellow Les Hosking said the event was an important and topical forum where possible responses to changes in the energy industry will be debated.
“Energy consumers are very diverse in their needs and preferences and their expectations cover a broad spectrum. Some consumers are increasingly sophisticated in their energy decisions while others view energy as nothing more than a simple ‘ubiquitous’ service,” Mr Hosking added.
Other panellists include: Brian Collins, a Professor of Engineering Policy and Director of International Centre for Infrastructure Futures (ICIF) at University College London; Tim Nelson, Head of Economic Policy and Sustainability, AGL Energy; Brian Spalding, AEMC Commissioner; and Stephen Clark, General Manager, Network Planning and Performance, Sydney Transgrid.
Event details
When: Monday 1 September, arrivals from 5 p.m. for a 5.30 p.m. start
Where: Hamilton Room, level 47, MLC Centre, 19 Martin Place Sydney
Note to media: Media are welcome to attend this event.
Media contact: Victoria Black, SMART Strategic Marketing Manager, on +612 4221 3433 or vblack@uow.edu.au.