While a myriad of topics were discussed during the event, the overwhelming message was that the clean energy industry faces a very bright future, as long as the necessary policy frameworks are put in place, including the reforms to the Renewable Energy Target (RET).
This was a sentiment outlined from the opening of the conference by AGL Chief Executive Michael Fraser. Following the delay of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme, Mr Fraser argued that the RET changes would go a long way towards restoring the investor confidence that had been lost as a result of the delay.
In her keynote address, Minister for Climate Change, Energy Efficiency and Water Senator Penny Wong said that the clean energy industry has a critical role to play in working with all political parties to build a consensus for action on renewable energy reform.
Shadow Energy and Resources Minister Ian Macfarlane also addressed conference delegates during the three-day event, challenging the clean energy industry to find solutions to supply Australia’s base load power needs, and calling for open and honest debate around the potential of nuclear power in Australia.
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The conference also featured a series of breakout technical sessions, including sessions on wind product development, getting geothermal to market and large scale solar.
With the formal conference program over, a variety of workshops were held on Day 3, as well as the Austrade Clean-Tech financing breakfast. Other highlights from the event included the launch of a new report on investment opportunities in Korea and Australia, presented by Austrade; and an address by The Australian’s Editor-at-Large Paul Kelly at the Gala Dinner.
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