Energy efficiency leaders meet in Sydney before G20 10 November 2014
Top Australian and global experts will meet at the National Energy Efficiency Conference in Sydney on 11 and 12 November, just days before Tony Abbott, Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin discuss energy efficiency at the G20.
"Energy efficiency has become a major global issue, which is why it's being discussed at G20. A recent report by the International Energy Agency found that energy efficiency has become the world's 'first fuel'. In 2012 global investment in energy efficiency was over US$310 billion, which was more than investment in either renewable energy or fossil fuel generation," said Luke Menzel, Acting CEO of the Energy Efficiency Council.
"Australia faces some real challenges. Electricity bills shot up in recent years, mainly due to the cost of building poles and wires. Now gas prices are doubling, which could have a huge impact on manufacturing. The NSW Government is rising to this challenge by helping homes and businesses save energy, but other governments have dropped the ball," said Luke Menzel.
"The G20's plan on energy efficiency doesn't involve any real commitments. Australia, and the world, needs to look at what NSW is doing and really lift its game," said Luke Menzel.
The National Energy Efficiency Conference brings leaders together to address the challenges of rising energy bills. Participants include:
- The Hon Rob Stokes, NSW Minister for the Environment
- Innes Willox, Chief Executive, Australian Industry Group
- Dagmar Graczyk, Manager for South Asia, International Energy Agency
- Jillian Broadbent AO, Chair, Clean Energy Finance Corporation
- The Hon Gary Gray, Federal Shadow Minister for Energy
The National Energy Efficiency Conference takes place at Swissôtel at 68 Market St, Sydney. Sessions will run across Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 November 2014.