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Meet our speakers
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- Women in Energy Breakfast
Adrian Kemp
HoustonKemp
Alex Wonhas
Ampyr Energy
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Alison Reeve
Grattan Institute
Alistair Burke
Aurora Energy
Andrew Bills
SA Power Networks
Andrew Linnie
AusNet
Andrew Richards
Energy Users Association of Australia (EUAA)
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Andrew Thornton
Origin Energy
Anna Collyer
Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC)
Anthony Fowler
Tilt Renewables
Anton Rohner
Private Energy Partners
Ben Potter
Brendan French
Energy Consumers Australia
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Brett Redman
Transgrid
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Caitlin Trethewy
AGL
Cara Graham
Ernst & Young Australia
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Caroline Ottmann
AGL
Catherine Wolthuizen
Energy and Water Ombudsman (Victoria) (EWOV)
Chang Wang
Monash University
Chloe Hicks
Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo)
Chris Thompson
Amber Electric
Chrys Chandraraj
EDF
Clare Archer
Nectr
Clare Savage
Australian Energy Regulator (AER)
Craig Stallan
Lumea (Transgrid Group)
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Damien Nicks
AGL
Daniel Ziffer
ABC News
Danielle Beinart
Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC)
David Burns
Accenture Australia & New Zealand
David Perry
BOOM! Power
David Prins
Etrog Consulting
Dean Spaccavento
Reposit Power
Dennis Noaeen
Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)
Dom van den Berg
Energy Networks Australia
Domenic Capomolla
Pacific Blue Australia
Elizabeth Molyneux
Vic Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
Emma Fagan
Akaysha Energy
Felicity Underhill
Frank Jotzo
Australian National University (ANU)
Gavin Currie
Consulting Principal
Leonardo
Gavin Dufty
National Council St. Vincent Paul Society Australia
Gerard Brody
Vic Essential Services Commission
Gerard Reilly
Powerlink Queensland
Glenn Springall
Energy Queensland
Gordon Taylor
Transgrid
Guy Chalkley
Endeavour Energy
Hao Wang
Monash University
Heather Smith
Changing Weather
Jacob Mahoney
Flow Power
Jad El Sebaaly
Vice President
Powerships Australia
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Jai Thomas
Energy Policy WA
James Gerraty
Telstra
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Jana Jevcakova
Sodali & Co
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Janine Young
Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW
Jean-Marie Verrier
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC)
Jennifer Hughes
Transgrid
Jill Cainey
Erne Energy
Jo De Silva
Australian Energy Council
Joel Gilmore
Iberdrola Australia
Jonathan Prendergast
Business Renewables Centre Australia (BRC-A)
Katalin Polus
Synergy
Kate Smith
McKinsey & Company
Kotub Uddin
Envision Energy
Krystal Skinner
Horizon Power
Libby Dale
SmartMeasures
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Lisa Chiba
Momentum Energy
Liz Westcott
Woodside Energy
Louisa Kinnear
Australian Energy Council
Luke Jenner
Essential Energy
Lyn Bowring
Vic Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
Mark Collette
EnergyAustralia
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Mark Humphreys
Gentrack
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Mark Hutchinson
Fortescue Energy
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Mark Paterson
Energy Catalyst
Mark Rees
Gentrack
Mark Ryall
Transpower (New Zealand)
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Mark Sprawson
Chief Commercial Officer
VisNet
Matt Armitage
Ernst & Young Australia
Matt Cheney
Western Power
Matt Kean
Climate Change Authority
Mayur Bhaskar
Accenture Australia & New Zealand
Mekala Krishnan
McKinsey Global Institute Partner
McKinsey & Company (USA)
Melissa Irwin
Endeavour Energy
Melissa Perrow
Brickworks Building Products
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Michael Frangos
Indigenous Energy Australia (IEA)
Michael Jary
Sense
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Moragh Mackay
Mycelia Renewables
Natalie Hanna
AtkinsRéalis
Peter King
Capgemini
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Phaedra Deckart
Solstice Energy
Rachel Watson
Hydro Tasmania
Rachelle Cooper Kulkarni
Indigenous Energy Australia
Raewyn Moss
Transpower (New Zealand)
Ralph Griffiths
AGL
Renate Vogt
CitiPower, Powercor & United Energy
Richard Wrightson
Delta Electricity
Rob Wheals
Squadron Energy
Ryan Wavish
ENGIE Australia & New Zealand
Sabiene Heindl
Energy Charter
Sara Taylor
Hydrostor
Shannon Hyde
ENGIE Australia & New Zealand
Shannon O'Rourke
Powering Australia
Shreejan Pandey
Monash Energy Institute
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Simon Emms
ElectraNet
Stephanie Unwin
Horizon Power
Steve Reid
Origin Energy
Sue Elliott
EnergyAustralia
Suzanne Falvi
AGL
Suzie Jakobovits
Jemena
Ted O'Brien
House of Representatives
Tennant Reed
Australian Industry Group (Ai Group)
Thorsten Heller
CEO & Co-founder, Greenbird Integration Technology
Tibor Schwartz
HMC Capital
Tim Nelson
NEM Wholesale Market Settings Review
Tony Wood
Grattan Institute
Victor Finkel
McKinsey & Company
Vida Cheeseman
Endeavour Energy
David Prins
DirectorEtrog Consulting
David Prins is an experienced and highly accomplished thought leader, strategic influencer and collaborator in the Australian energy market. He thrives on understanding how competition and regulation inter relate in energy markets, and helping his clients to navigate the often difficult environments in which they have to participate and engage, across the energy value chain.
David has extensive international consulting experience and expertise in strategic, regulatory and government policy and commercial issues in energy markets, particularly from a consumer perspective. His work currently focuses on the energy transition to net zero, reliability and resilience of the energy system, and energy affordability.
Speaking at
08:30
Masterclass A: Australian energy industry boot camp
Chang Wang
Research FellowMonash University
Dr. Changlong Wang is a research fellow at Monash University. He is one of the key developers of the Hydrogen Economic Fairways Tool - a government-led project by Geoscience Australia in collaboration with Monash University to support Australia's National Hydrogen Strategy. Changlong is also a Climate Future Fellow at the University of Melbourne. He is one of the two participants, who represent Australia in a new IEA, Hydrogen Implement Agreement, Task 41: “Analysis and Modelling of Hydrogen Technologies”.
Speaking at
08:30
Masterclass B: Bidding patterns of renewable generators in high-penetration renewable markets
Hao Wang
Senior Research Fellow, Department of Data Science & AIMonash University
Dr Hao Wang is an ARC DECRA Fellow and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Monash University. He is also affiliated with the Monash Energy Institute and Monash Data Futures Institute. His research interests are in the optimisation and applied AI techniques for sustainable power and energy systems. He was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stanford University and a Washington Research Foundation (WRF) Innovation Fellow at University of Washington, Seattle.
At Monash, Hao leads a dynamic research team dedicated to advancing optimisation and AI techniques for a wide array of areas, including electricity market bidding strategies, integration of consumer energy resources, electric vehicle charging coordination, and energy consumer behaviours.
He leads several government and industry funded projects, including an Australian Research Council DECRA Fellowship and CSIRO's Next Generation Graduates Program focused on AI for Clean Energy and Sustainability.
Speaking at
08:30
Masterclass B: Bidding patterns of renewable generators in high-penetration renewable markets
Heather Smith
Energy Specialist and Community Energy AdvocateChanging Weather
Heather Smith is an electrical engineer and Chair of the Coalition for Community Energy. She has been completing a PhD on redesigning the electricity grid with microgrids. Her project in Venus Bay (Vic) showed how a community might progressively invest in reliability, energy self-sufficiency and build community resilience at the same time. In 2016, Heather was awarded a Churchill Fellowship on the topic of governance and community energy, and travelled to USA, Germany, Denmark, UK and Japan to investigate the changes in electricity markets that are being stimulated by community led energy initiatives. Heather previously forged careers in industrial energy efficiency and climate change policymaking before moving to focus on local energy systems.
Speaking at
08:30
Masterclass C: Developing local energy expertise
Moragh Mackay
Managing DirectorMycelia Renewables
Moragh Mackay is Managing Director at Mycelia Renewables Ltd., a social enterprise supporting self-determined participation of First Nations and regional communities in the energy transition. She is a researcher/practitioner of systemic inquiry and strategic design. Her PhD was in facilitating co-design of collaborative governance and she has over 30 years of experience in the fields of ecological restoration, regenerative agriculture, climate change resilience in rural landscapes, renewable energy, emissions reduction and, strategic planning and co-design to create value for SMEs, community-based organisations and rural communities. Her roles have included Founding Director of the Energy Innovation Co-operative in 2009 and Chair 2015-19, New Energy Projects Manager and Lead of the Gippsland Smart Specialisation Team with the Latrobe Valley Authority, Senior Policy Advisor at Federation of Victorian Traditional Owner Corporations, Consultant at Riverbend Ecological Services and Projects Manager and Executive Officer at Bass Coast Landcare Network.
Speaking at
08:30
Masterclass C: Developing local energy expertise
Jana Jevcakova
Senior Advisor, Corporate Governance & SustainabilitySodali & Co
Jana has more than 15 years’ experience in corporate governance advisory, capital market research, shareholder engagement and sustainability. She advises company boards and management teams on all aspects of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policies and disclosures. Her focus is on providing ASX and other company boards and senior managers with insightful analysis on corporate governance and sustainability-related matters and practices, ensuring effective and efficient reporting, and in the execution of corporate actions and vote-related company meetings, including M&A, shareholder activism campaigns and proxy battles. Prior to joining Sodali & Co, Jana was the Director of Research at Glass Lewis, with responsibility for research and engagement covering more than 800 companies in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Her experience in advising large domestic and institutional investors positions her as an expert on the proxy guidelines and ensures she can provide clients with in-depth analysis on their projected recommendations, along with highly valued strategic advice on shareholder engagement.
Speaking at
08:30
Masterclass D: Sustainability reporting fundamentals - an essential toolkit to minimise risk
Daniel Ziffer
Reporter, ‘The Business’ABC News
Daniel Ziffer has worked at the intersection of journalism and public debate for more than two decades. He covers business issues for ABC News, presents the Finance segment on the 7PM bulletin nationally and appears on radio and television programs around the nation. Daniel is the long-time senior producer of Mornings with Jon Faine, ABC Radio Melbourne, and has worked on air and in production at Macquarie Radio, as a freelance foreign correspondent based in New York City, journalist at The Age and a magazine editor. In 2019 he wrote a book called ‘A Wunch of Bankers: A year in the Hayne Royal Commission’.
Speaking at
08:30
Opening remarks from Chair
Ted O'Brien
Shadow Minister for Climate Change and EnergyHouse of Representatives
Ted O’Brien is a seasoned leader with a rich background in business, government, and international relations. He began his career working in his family’s business, Defiance Mills, progressing from a trainee baker to senior management, where he led operations across Australia and Asia. Ted’s expertise expanded further as he took on roles in Australia’s rice industry, focusing on international negotiations and market entry strategies in Asia.
Ted spent over a decade at global consulting firm Accenture, where he led strategy consulting initiatives and complex international deals. His final role was as Director of Growth & Strategy for Asia Pacific and Emerging Markets, based in Beijing, where he managed mergers, acquisitions, and corporate strategy.
Returning to Australia, Ted served as Managing Director of Barton Deakin Qld before entering politics. He won the seat of Fairfax in 2016, where he continues to advocate for his community on the Sunshine Coast. Beyond his professional career, Ted has held key community roles, including Chairman of Ronald McDonald House Charities SEQ and Founder of Generation Innovation, a not-for-profit helping young people start their own businesses.
Ted holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Politics, a Masters in International Business, and a Masters in Economics.
Speaking at
08:45
Policy perspectives
Mark Collette
Managing DirectorEnergyAustralia
Mr Collette has been with EnergyAustralia since 2003 and Managing Director since 1 July 2021. He served as Chief Customer Officer from May 2019 until June 2021 and led the Energy business (comprising generation and trading at the time) between July 2015 and May 2019. Former roles have included executive responsibility for policy, sustainability, strategy and other matters.
Mr Collette is Chair and Director at the Australian Energy Council (AEC), which represents 20 major electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in the competitive wholesale and retail energy market. He is also a former member of the AEMC's Reliability Panel and a former director of the Australian Financial Markets Association.
Prior to joining EnergyAustralia, he worked for management consulting firm LEK consulting on a variety of commercial engagements in Australia, Thailand and the UK.
Speaking at
09:00
Expanding renewable energy and storage to meet 2030 climate targets
Mekala Krishnan
McKinsey Global Institute Partner
McKinsey & Company (USA)
Dr. Mekala Krishnan is a partner at the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI), McKinsey’s business and economics research arm.
Her research focuses on topics related to sustainable and inclusive growth, including climate risk and the net-zero transition, globalization, productivity growth, and gender economics. Her most recent research focuses on the net-zero transition, adaptation and physical climate risk across sectors and geographies, including its implications for companies and countries. She is an author of the recent MGI reports, The net-zero transition: What it would cost, what it would bring, From poverty to empowerment: Raising the bar for sustainable and inclusive growth, and Climate risk and response: Physical hazards and socioeconomic impacts. Her past research has focused on the risks facing global value chains and the future of globalization.
Mekala is a frequent speaker on these topics at global conferences as well as with executives at Fortune 500 companies. She has authored numerous articles and her work has been cited in leading business publications, including The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and Harvard Business Review.
Mekala serves on a Bretton Woods Committee working group on climate finance and on advisory boards for the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and for the Sibley School of Mechanical Engineering at Cornell University. She is also on the board of the Global Fund for Women, a leading public foundation dedicated to improving global gender equality. She was previously a member of a task force at the Hutchins Center on Fiscal and Monetary Policy at Brookings focused on improving productivity measurement.
Mekala received her Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University in 2011. Prior to Cornell, she received a Bachelor of Technology degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2006 from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi.
Speaking at
09:25
International Address: Global insights and practical strategies for energy transition: opportunities, challenges, and innovations
Tim Nelson
ChairNEM Wholesale Market Settings Review
Tim is currently the Chair of the independent review of Australia's NEM. The Review is to make recommendations to Ministers in late 2025.
Tim was the Executive General Manager, Energy Markets at Iberdrola Australia until November 2024. In this role, Tim led the wholesale and retail energy markets functions. He also led business development for firming, hydrogen and smart solutions. Tim joined Iberdrola Australia in March 2020 from the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC). Up until November 2018, Tim was the Chief Economist of AGL Energy.
He has also been a Climate Councillor, a member of the Westpac Stakeholder Advisory Council, an advisory board member for My Net Zero.
Tim is an Associate Professor at Griffith University and is widely published in Australian and international peer-reviewed journals. He holds a PhD in economics for which he earned a Chancellors Doctoral Research Medal and a first-class honours degree in economics. Tim is also a fellow of the Governance Institute (FGIA FCG CS CGP) and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). He is also a Fellow of the Centre for Policy Development.
Speaking at
09:55
Reimagining the future of the national electricity market
Victor Finkel
PartnerMcKinsey & Company
Victor Finkel is a Partner at McKinsey, based in Melbourne, Australia. Victor specialises in supporting leading private and public sector institutions through the energy transition, having worked with energy companies across Australia and New Zealand on wide range of strategy, organisation and transformation topics.
Speaking at
11:05
CEO PANEL: Navigating the transition: Overcoming challenges to ensure reliable renewable energy integration
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Brett Redman
Chief Executive OfficerTransgrid
Brett Redman is a highly experienced energy industry executive at the centre of Australia’s energy transition. He was appointed CEO of Transgrid in November 2021, tasked with leading the build of the nation’s energy super-highways, involving some of Australia’s largest ever transmission projects.
No country in the world is yet running a nation-sized power network with 100% wind and solar generation. Brett is determined to innovate and invest early in building the industry capabilities and capacity to enable Australia’s rapid transition to 100% instantaneous renewable power.
Brett’s three decades of leadership experience include nearly 15 years at AGL Energy, where he was appointed CEO and Managing Director in 2018. He is also the former Chair of the Australian Energy Council.
Brett is a passionate believer that corporates must build their social license as well as the bottom line to be truly successful. He is committed to working across the community to help build an energy market that is reliable, affordable, and sustainable. Brett is a proud member of the Champions of Change Coalition, personally taking the lead on gender equality actions.
Speaking at
11:05
CEO PANEL: Navigating the transition: Overcoming challenges to ensure reliable renewable energy integration
Guy Chalkley
Chief Executive OfficerEndeavour Energy
Guy is a highly regarded leader and influencer within the energy industry. As CEO of Endeavour Energy, he is transforming the business to become a leading provider of energy services, as it integrates renewable energy sources to deliver a smarter, cleaner, affordable and more reliable energy system, and continues to deliver safe, reliable and essential electricity services to 2.7 million people living and working in NSW’s fastest growing regions.
Guy is a Partnership Committee member of the ACEREZ Partnership (consisting of ACCIONA, COBRA and Endeavour Energy), which has been appointed by the NSW Government as the preferred network operator to finance, build and operate the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone transmission project, and will play a pivotal role in NSW’s transition to a clean energy future and help the State achieve its net zero targets.
He is also a board member of Energy Networks Australia, the peak national body representing energy businesses in Australia. In February 2025 Guy was appointed Non-Executive Chairman of ASX listed West Australian based company Frontier Energy ASX:FHE.
Prior to Endeavour Energy, he was CEO of Western Power, a Western Australian State Government-owned transmission and distribution network corporation, after earlier roles including Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Western Power, he worked for a decade at Veolia Water and Thames Water in senior finance and regulatory director roles. He has a wealth of international, financial and operational experience.
Speaking at
11:05
CEO PANEL: Navigating the transition: Overcoming challenges to ensure reliable renewable energy integration
Liz Westcott
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer AustraliaWoodside Energy
Liz was appointed Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Australia in August 2024, leading Woodside's projects and business operations for Australia, focusing on optimising value across the portfolio and throughout an asset's lifecycle.
Liz joined Woodside in 2023 as Executive Vice President Australian Operations, responsible for the safe, efficient and reliable operation of Woodside's portfolio of assets across Australia.
Prior to joining Woodside, Liz most recently held the role of Chief Operating Officer at EnergyAustralia, where she had broad leadership responsibilities across sustainability, HSSE, procurement and the operations of EnergyAustralia's generation portfolio.
Liz had a 25-year career at ExxonMobil working in Australia, the United Kingdom and Italy, including a secondment in 2013 to Adriatic LNG as Managing Director. Her roles spanned strategic planning, operations, project management, and safety, technical and commercial leadership.
Speaking at
11:05
CEO PANEL: Navigating the transition: Overcoming challenges to ensure reliable renewable energy integration
Shannon Hyde
Chief Executive OfficerENGIE Australia & New Zealand
Shannon is passionate about the unique role energy businesses play in the decarbonisation of our economy, customer participation in the energy transition, and how data and enabling technologies can deliver benefits in our pursuit of net-zero.
ENGIE ANZ has operated in Australia since 1996 and is part of a global network of 97,000 transition makers across 30 countries with ambition to reach net zero across all scopes by 2045.
Speaking at
11:05
CEO PANEL: Navigating the transition: Overcoming challenges to ensure reliable renewable energy integration
Mark Humphreys
General Manager, AustraliaGentrack
Mark leads Gentrack’s Australian business. He joined Gentrack in April 2019 and was appointed General Manager, Australia in December that same year. Mark has worked with software for utilities and telecommunications companies across Asia Pacific for more than 25 years. He started his career as a programmer moving through delivery, channels, sales and management roles. In his current role he is responsible for Gentrack’s Australian customers, staff and business.
Speaking at
11:50
Addressing challenges in energy regulation for a resilient future
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Damien Nicks
Managing Director & Chief Executive OfficerAGL
Damien Nicks is MD and CEO at AGL, a leading Australian energy company with a commitment to deliver one of the most significant decarbonisation initiatives in the country. His vision will deliver value for AGL's customers and shareholders and position the company for future growth.
Damien is responsible for driving a once-in-a-generation transformation of AGL’s generation and retail portfolios to an integrated energy leader, with an ambition to add 12 GW of new renewable generation and firming capacity by the end of 2035 while helping 4.5 million customers decarbonise and electrify the way they live, move and work.
Prior to becoming MD and CEO in January 2023, Damien held several senior executive finance positions at AGL before joining its Executive Team as Chief Financial Officer in August 2018.
With more than 10 years’ experience in the energy industry, Damien is also Chair of the Australian Energy Council and is a strong advocate for diversity and gender equality as a founding member of the Champions of Change Coalition Energy Group.
Damien’s significant leadership and project delivery experience in complex and large multinational organisations spans more than 28 years across a number of other sectors, including logistics, industrial and professional services.
Speaking at
12:10
Navigating the evolving energy landscape: strategies for regulatory alignment
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Ben Potter
JournalistBen Potter spent 27 years at The Australian Financial Review in Melbourne, finishing up in August 2024. Most recently he wrote about energy and climate policy. Ben believes the energy transition is no less urgent because some investors and corporations think it's too hard, or that they can take their foot off the accelerator. He is passionate about this subject and writing about it as a freelancer.
Ben previously wrote about technology, business and tax, edited the companies section and the opinion pages, and served as Washington correspondent and Melbourne Bureau Chief. In the 1990s he worked at The Telegraph (London) and The Age/The Sydney Morning Herald. In the mid-1980s Ben briefly masqueraded as a solicitor before seeing the light and seeking a career in journalism.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can Australia prevent high energy prices and cost-of-living pressures from stalling the energy transition?
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Simon Emms
Chief ExecutiveElectraNet
Simon is a long-term Executive with more than 30 years of experience within the Australian energy industry. He is a dynamic, results oriented, corporate leader with extensive knowledge across a range of infrastructure portfolios, including Network Operations, Maintenance, and new Major Projects.
In his previous role of Group Executive, Network Services, Simon managed a Capex budget of more than $300 million per year, and an annual Opex budget of approximately $50 million.
Simon has been responsible for the successful delivery of major transmission lines to Oz Minerals’ Prominent Hill and Carrapateena mines, synchronous condensers located on Yorke Peninsula and Robertstown, and the positive progress seen on the Eyre Peninsula Link (EP Link) and Project Energy Connect (PEC) transmission lines.
Simon has successfully navigated ElectraNet during a time of extensive industry change, predominantly brought about by the uptake of renewable energy technologies and he has successfully led the delivery of over $3 billion worth of substation and other transmission lines projects. He was appointed to the role of Incident Manager during the South Australian 2016 state-wide blackout and is an accomplished business negotiator, with a proven ability in resolving complex issues among many customer, industry and government stakeholders.
Simon holds an Honours Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Adelaide, as well as a Masters of Business Administration from the University of British Columbia in Canada.
Above all, Simon’s passion is coaching the next generation of energy industry professionals, inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can Australia prevent high energy prices and cost-of-living pressures from stalling the energy transition?
14:50
Harnessing residential flexibility to enhance grid efficiency – the South Australia experience
Dom van den Berg
Chief Executive OfficerEnergy Networks Australia
Dom grew up in South Africa and after living and working in the UK, Kazakhstan and Singapore now considers Australia home. Dom and her partner Michele have two young children and live on the Mornington Peninsula. Dom brings to the role an international career spanning more than twenty years in the energy sector – from leading BG Group’s operations in South and East Asia, to Shell’s energy transition team in Australia to AGL’s decentralised energy team.
Australia’s energy transition is well underway, and ENA will continue to be at the centre of this change. The environment is set for Australia to take a leadership position in network innovation, and we look forward to leading the change with our members.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can Australia prevent high energy prices and cost-of-living pressures from stalling the energy transition?
Rachel Watson
Chief Executive OfficerHydro Tasmania
With over two decades of leadership experience in the energy sector, Rachel is recognised for her dynamic approach and commitment to fostering both commercial success and positive cultural change. Before joining Hydro Tasmania, she was the Country Manager for OX2 Australia, where she led the development of renewable energy projects across the nation. As CEO of Pacific Hydro Australia, she played a pivotal role in driving the growth of hydro, solar, and wind power projects. Her leadership extended to her time as Chair of the Clean Energy Council, where she championed the transition to renewable energy across the country.
Rachel's expertise spans infrastructure development, retail, finance, and legal, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the energy industry's complexities. She has been named in The Australian’s list of 100 Green Power Players, a testament to her influence and contributions to clean energy.
Known for her passion for inclusivity and strategic vision, Rachel continues to shape the future of the energy industry with a focus on sustainable growth and innovation. She holds an MBA from Melbourne Business School and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Rachel is looking forward to making Tasmania her home and building on Hydro Tasmania’s big vision for the future.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can Australia prevent high energy prices and cost-of-living pressures from stalling the energy transition?
Phaedra Deckart
Chief Executive OfficerSolstice Energy
Phaedra Deckart is the CEO of the Solstice Energy Group, including Tas Gas Networks, and is leading its successful transformation into a diversified energy business. She has previously served as a senior executive at AGL and Santos.
With more than 25 years’ experience in domestic and global markets, Phaedra is one of Australia’s strongest advocates for the role gas continues to play in the energy transition to diversified and renewable energy in Australia. She began her career in law, before moving into the business side of the energy industry.
At AGL, Phaedra managed the sourcing and origination of gas, power and coal deals while navigating the transition to firmed renewables. She played a lead role in the company’s LNG import project. During her years at Santos, she held commercial, corporate, gas and LNG marketing positions.
Solstice Energy is an electricity retailer and the gas network distributor and largest gas retailer in Tasmania. It is also pursuing new projects, such as bio-fuels and renewable gases, as part of the state’s future energy mix, further cementing it as a diversified energy company.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can Australia prevent high energy prices and cost-of-living pressures from stalling the energy transition?
Mark Sprawson
Chief Commercial Officer
VisNet
As Commercial Director of EA Technology’s VisNet business, he drives international growth in LV network monitoring, software modelling, and consultancy services. Under his leadership, VisNet has become a UK leader in actionable insights and self-serve connection tools for DNOs. With 20 years in the industry, Mark has pioneered techno-economic modelling and led key projects across four continents, helping utilities make strategic, future-focused decisions to support the transition to Net Zero.
Speaking at
14:35
Building cost-effective energy networks for a sustainable future
16:30
Panel discussion: Powering the future: breakthrough technologies and innovations paving the way to a net zero energy system
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Anna Collyer
ChairAustralian Energy Market Commission (AEMC)
Anna Collyer is a leading energy expert and the Chair of the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) and a member of the Energy Advisory Panel (EAP). She has nearly three decades of public and private sector experience in energy and has worked extensively on industry reform with energy ministers.
Anna has a passion for leadership and change and is a big believer in a learning culture, where experimentation is a necessary part of creating something new. In 2022, she became one of Australia’s inaugural ambassadors for the global Energy Equality Initiative, supporting the urgent task of improving female representation in the energy sector.
As a partner of Allens law firm from 2001 to 2020, Anna focused on the energy sector throughout its evolution, advised a broad range of clients in the public and private sectors on major projects, and fostered innovation at all levels of the firm, not only in technological developments but also in new ways of working and addressing disruption.
Speaking at
14:55
Coordinating the transition to lower household energy costs
Rob Wheals
Chief Executive OfficerSquadron Energy
Rob is a highly regarded leader with more than 25 years’ executive experience across the energy infrastructure and telecommunications sectors in Australia and internationally.
As Squadron Energy CEO, he heads up Australia’s leading renewable energy developer, owner and operator, and also sits on the board of the Clean Energy Council.
Prior to joining Squadron, he was CEO and Managing Director of the top 50 ASX-listed energy infrastructure business APA Group.
Speaking at
16:05
Enabling more rapid decarbonisation through complementing renewable power generation with firming technologies
Felicity Underhill
Energy Transition and Decarbonisation ExpertFelicity Underhill has spent twenty-five years working in the energy industry in a career spanning strategy, commercial, innovation, project and executive leadership roles across almost thirty countries. After an early career with Shell in Europe and around the world, she has held senior roles at Origin and Fortescue in Australia, where she was one of the early leaders working on energy transition challenges and projects across the Asia Pacific region. She was Deputy Chair of the Australian Hydrogen Council until late 2023. Her current board positions include NZ’s Channel Infrastructure as it transitions from refinery to terminal to energy precinct, and Australian renewables platform, Intera Renewables. In December 2024, Felicity was appointed as a Commissioner on the board of He Pou a Rangi, the New Zealand Climate Change Commission, which is responsible for advising the government of the day and monitoring its progress to reduce emissions.
Speaking at
16:30
Panel discussion: Powering the future: breakthrough technologies and innovations paving the way to a net zero energy system
Mark Rees
Chief Technology OfficerGentrack
Mark is an experienced technology leader focused on leading software engineering teams that create innovative solutions to complex customer problems. He has worked across many business domains, from financial services to e-commerce and technical domains, including data, security, and cloud.
Before joining Gentrack, Mark was the Chief Technology Officer at Xero, the National Technology Officer at Microsoft New Zealand and the Chief Product and Technology Officer at Trade Me.
Mark graduated from the University of Canterbury with a PhD in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Mathematics. He was also a research fellow at Technische Universiteit Eindhoven.
Speaking at
16:30
Panel discussion: Powering the future: breakthrough technologies and innovations paving the way to a net zero energy system
Craig Stallan
Executive General ManagerLumea (Transgrid Group)
Craig Stallan has more than 25 years’ experience in heavy industry including mining and manufacturing, working in the United Kingdom, United States and Australia. He has held senior executive roles in commercial, operations and projects, leading large and complex divisions in the oil and gas, and energy infrastructure industries.
Craig was appointed the Executive General Manager of Lumea (Transgrid Group) in 2024 and is responsible for delivering essential infrastructure that delivers on Australia’s clean energy targets. Prior to his appointment, Craig led the safe development and delivery of Transgrid’s maintenance and capital programs.
Craig is committed to values-based leadership with a deep-seated desire to contribute to the industry’s responsible impact on communities and the planet.
Speaking at
16:30
Panel discussion: Powering the future: breakthrough technologies and innovations paving the way to a net zero energy system
11:25
Integrating batteries to the grid
Mark Hutchinson
Chief Executive OfficerFortescue Energy
Mr Hutchinson commenced with Fortescue in July 2022 as Director of Projects before being appointed Fortescue Energy CEO in August 2022.
Mr Hutchinson’s focus as CEO is to drive growth in Fortescue Energy which is building a global portfolio of renewable green hydrogen and green ammonia projects and developing green technology solutions. In 2024, the team is focused on accelerating projects in Morocco, Norway, the USA, Brazil and Australia.
Mr Hutchinson brings extensive business and leadership experience at a senior executive level, having held various roles at GE over a 25-year career, the two most recent as President and Chief Executive Officer China and Europe. In these roles Mr Hutchinson led the efforts to strengthen GE’s operations across China and Europe and developed and executed a shared growth strategy for all the GE businesses which helped to drive significant growth, year on year. Following its €12.35 billion acquisition, Mark led the integration of Alstom’s power and grid businesses into GE.
A highly experienced international business leader with a passion for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Mr Hutchinson has previously held a Board position at World Wide Generation Limited, and Non-Executive Director roles at Bluescope Steel Limited, Mission Australia and Allianz Australia Insurance Limited.
Mr Hutchinson holds an honorary Doctor of Business from the University of Queensland, where he is the primary sponsor of the Ethics Chair.
Speaking at
16:30
Panel discussion: Powering the future: breakthrough technologies and innovations paving the way to a net zero energy system
09:10
Strategic pathways to renewable energy generation
Kate Smith
Associate PartnerMcKinsey & Company
Kate specialises in transformation and operating model design, bringing expertise from serving energy organisations, heavy industries and the public sector. She is known for helping clients cut through to what matters most in complexity and ensuring solutions are practical and fully set up for successful implementation.
Speaking at
07:30
Panel discussion: What are cross sector solutions to issues in the energy transition?
Caroline Ottmann
Head of StrategyAGL
Caroline Ottmann is the Head of Strategy at AGL, where she leads strategic initiatives aimed at transforming the energy landscape in Australia. With over a decade of experience in the energy sector, Caroline has developed expertise in strategy, innovation, and corporate affairs. Prior to joining AGL in 2024, she served as Director of Strategy, Innovation, and Corporate Affairs at Schneider Electric, where she played a key role in driving business transformation and market insights.
Her passion for energy efficiency led her to serve on the board of the Energy Efficiency Council, where she contributed to shaping Australia's energy efficiency policies and practices. Earlier in her career, Caroline held strategic roles at Caltex Australia, including leading operating model and change management projects within the Retail Business Unit.
Caroline holds extensive experience in procurement consulting, having worked with Infosys Portland for several years, where she specialised in supply chain optimisation and business transformation. She has been recognised for her leadership and innovation, earning a CIPSA Award for excellence in procurement.
Caroline’s broad experience across energy, procurement, and strategy makes her a key figure in Australia’s energy transition, dedicated to creating a sustainable future for the sector.
Speaking at
07:30
Panel discussion: What are cross sector solutions to issues in the energy transition?
Melissa Irwin
Chief Data, People and Sustainability OfficerEndeavour Energy
Melissa is a highly successful human resources executive with more than 20 years’ experience in organisational development, workforce planning, remuneration and benefits, inclusion and diversity and industrial relations.
During Melissa’s career, her strategic yet pragmatic approach has seen her lead workforce optimisation, cultural transformation and employee experience strategies which have resulted in operational efficiencies, cultural change and improved employee engagement.
Melissa’s passion lies in transforming organisations through people and leadership and she is a champion for inclusion and diversity. With a collaborative and inclusive leadership style focused on developing and empowering all team members, her strength lies in her ability to create an environment where people are free to think creatively and challenge and improve the way things are done.
Prior to joining Endeavour Energy, Melissa held numerous consulting roles working with a large variety of organisations and sectors within Australia and New Zealand.
Speaking at
07:30
Panel discussion: What are cross sector solutions to issues in the energy transition?
Mark Paterson
PrincipalEnergy Catalyst
Mark Paterson is the Principal and Lead Systems Architect of Energy Catalyst, a specialist consulting practice focused on the key structural shifts required for legacy power systems to be capable of a secure and cost-efficient Net Zero Emissions future.
Working at the intersection of strategic vision and real-world application, Mark has led several national energy system transformation projects in Australia, including as Chair of the CSIRO Future Grid Forum and Program Director of the CSIRO/ENA Electricity Network Transformation Roadmap. At Horizon Power and Energex, he led the innovative development and scale deployment of several utility technology innovation firsts.
Mark is globally recognised as an expert in Power Systems Architecture disciplines which are critical to secure and cost-efficient grid transformation. He is a Fellow of the Pacific Energy Institute, an invited Associate of the US Department of Energy’s GridWise Architecture Council (GWAC) and a contributing author for the IEEE Power & Energy Society.
Speaking at
09:00
Opening remarks from the Chair
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Andrew Bills
Chief Executive OfficerSA Power Networks
Andrew Bills commenced as CEO of SA Power Networks in 2023, the sole electricity distributor for the state of South Australia.
He has over 25 years’ experience in the energy industry across the public and private sectors, covering power generation, retail supply, distribution, LPG and energy trading.
Andrew’s previous roles include Executive roles at CS Energy, Origin Energy, Babcock and Brown Power, Stanwell Corporation and as a Director at PwC.
Andrew holds an MBA, BA and is a Graduate of the AICD.
Speaking at
09:10
Distribution networks and the case for change in a rapidly evolving energy landscape
Cara Graham
Partner, Power & UtilitiesErnst & Young Australia
Cara Graham is an Energy Partner in EY’s Strategy and Transactions team. Cara is also a member of EY's Infrastructure Advisory leadership team.
Cara has over 20 years experience in the energy industry. She joined EY from electricity distributor Energex where she held a number of senior roles, including representing Energex on executive-level national workgroups responsible for managing changes to market procedures used within the National Electricity Market.
"I love being part of the energy industry – it plays such a fundamental role in society. I strive to spread that enthusiasm to those around me. I take pride in developing my skills, and the skills of my team, to contribute to improvements in the way that energy is generated, delivered and consumed by customers."
Cara has a Bachelor of Commerce and Honours in Commerce from the University of Queensland, and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Speaking at
09:40
Creating customer-centric grids to help enable faster integration of renewables
Matt Cheney
Executive Manager Energy Transition & SustainabilityWestern Power
With more than 20 years’ experience across various industries, most recently in the energy sector, Matt is Executive Manager of Western Power's Energy Transition & Sustainability business. His team is responsible for spearheading sustainability and enabling community and customer decarbonisation through network transmission enhancement and the integration of distributed energy resources (DER) within the South West Interconnected System.
Since joining Western Power in 2009, Matt has initiated and led Western Power’s delivery of industry-changing projects that have shaped the way Western Power operates and manages Western Australia’s main electricity network. These include the innovative Grid Transformation Engine; the roll-out of stand-alone power systems and key DER integration initiatives like Project Jupiter, which will enable customer-owned energy resources like solar, batteries and smart appliances to be coordinated as a virtual power plant. Matt is also leading the establishment and development of the Clean Energy Link program, the foundation for increased renewable energy capacity. The first project being delivered is Clean Energy Link - North which is set to unlock northern network transmission capacity and renewable energy generation opportunities needed to support enable this extraordinary transition.
Matt holds a BEng (Aerospace Avionics) from the Queensland University of Technology and is Chair of the Industry Advisory Board for the country’s first Clean Energy Skills National Centre of Excellence.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
15:50
Orchestrating distributed energy resources for a resilient energy future: insights from Project Symphony
Peter King
Global Head of Energy Transition and UtilitiesCapgemini
Peter King is the Global Head of Energy Transition and Utilities at Capgemini Invent, where he leads transformational business change initiatives, digital platform development, and regulatory innovation across Europe, APAC, and North America. With extensive experience in energy sector transformations, he has played a key role in defining business and technology roadmaps, aligning executive leadership, and shaping regulatory frameworks.
Peter is also a recognised industry thought leader, serving as the lead editor of the Capgemini’s World Energy Markets Observatory Report and regularly publishing insights on energy and utility topics. His career spans leadership roles at Capgemini, Ernst & Young, and PwC, with expertise in asset management, regulatory frameworks, digital innovation, and large-scale change programs. He holds an MSc in Mathematics and Computer Science, a BSc in Computer Science, and is a Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
16:20
Panel discussion: What will it take to welcome more CER to the grid?
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Jennifer Hughes
Executive General Manager of DeliveryTransgrid
Jennifer Hughes is the Executive General Manager of Delivery moving from her previous position as General Manager of Operations Planning at Transgrid. She is an Electrical Engineer and Project Manager with over 17 years of experience across the energy industry.
She joined Transgrid in 2014 and in that time has led multidisciplinary teams as Head of Project Development, Head of Field Resources Field Resources and General Manager of Network Operations.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
Chrys Chandraraj
Director - Strategy, Regulation and MarketsEDF
Chrys has over 36 years of experience with a strong track record of understanding the Energy Markets in Australia, how they operate and worked in participant businesses function in the National Electricity Market (NEM) and Western Australia (SWIS & NWIS).
Chrys' expertise lies in transmission access and addressing constraint-related issues faced by generation in energy markets. Notably, Chrys developed a transmission connection strategy for a southern NSW wind development to maximize power flow. Additionally, Chrys managed various east coast wind developers in progressing connection applications to near completion with various Network Service Providers (NSPs) and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), in collaboration with owner’s engineer consultants. Chrys also oversaw east coast solar developers in the NEM on commissioning-related matters involving HV connections, in consultation with relevant NSPs and AEMO. Furthermore, Chrys designed a technical solution to resolve a distribution connection transmission limit, enabling the expansion of an existing thermal plant at Bairnsdale (Victoria) to double its capacity on an unconstrained basis.
Chrys has also developed key aspects of project management, particularly in estimation, planning, scheduling, financial tracking, and progress monitoring. Additionally, Chrys has engaged with external counterparties and regulatory authorities to negotiate on market design and technical matters.
With experience in emerging energy technology across both the scheduled and distributed ends of the system, Chrys continues to contribute significantly to the energy sector, driving innovation and efficiency.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
Luke Jenner
Chief Operating OfficerEssential Energy
Luke Jenner is the Chief Operating Officer of Essential Energy, one of Australia’s largest electricity distribution network responsible for delivering electricity to over 890,000 customers across 95% of New South Wales (NSW) and parts of southern Queensland.
Luke has been a part of Essential Energy’s Executive Leadership Team since 2012, contributing his extensive engineering and operational expertise. Appointed as Chief Operating Officer on 1 November 2021, Luke is responsible for operational strategies, whole of life asset management, and engineering approaches to future-proof the network as well as ensuring the safety, reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of network operations.
Luke’s career spans significant senior management roles, including Executive Manager Engineering, General Manager Customer and Network Services, and General Manager People and Services at Essential Energy. He has also held various Engineering Management positions at DBT (now HBT GmbH), a global mining equipment supplier, and Royal Dutch Shell’s underground coal division.
Luke has a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons), an Executive MBA, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
14:00
Embracing stand-alone power systems for customer resilience and reliability in remote areas
Mark Ryall
Executive General Manager Grid DeliveryTranspower (New Zealand)
Mark has been with Transpower New Zealand since 2006, working in a variety of roles and currently serves as the Executive General Manager of Grid Delivery. He expertly manages the complexities of energy infrastructure build while ensuring the reliable electricity transmission supply nationwide. Mark leads a team of 200 internal staff responsible for the life cycle management of grid assets, from project investigation to capital build and maintenance. His strategic vision, commitment to sustainability and innovation drives continuous improvement in the delivery of services. He holds a degree from Lincoln University and completed the Executive Program at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Mark's previous roles include project management and consultancy in both New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
Thorsten Heller
Chief Innovation Officer GridOS, GE Vernova (Norway)CEO & Co-founder, Greenbird Integration Technology
Driven by his intellectual curiosity and vision that data integration holds the key to the future, German CEO Thorsten Heller co-founded Greenbird, challenging the traditional way utilities approach the smart energy revolution since 2010.
Greenbird (now GE Vernova) developed integration technology to help energy companies manage the information flow for smart metering and smart city applications. While at Greenbird, Thorsten launched Utilihive, a powerful software platform for smart meter management ready to scale and handle big data. It enables customers to be future-ready up to 80% faster than traditional system integration models.
As Chief Innovation Officer for GridOS at GE Vernova, Thorsten brings his considerable experience in enterprise integration, big data, machine learning, AI and real-time analytics to the grid orchestration category. Thorsten lives by the motto “If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough” and he is passionate about making data fly.
Speaking at
11:55
International address: Harnessing data fabric to drive real-time insights and operational resilience in Australia's energy transition
16:20
Panel discussion: What will it take to welcome more CER to the grid?
Dennis Noaeen
Associate Director, Rewiring the NationClean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)
Dennis Noaeen is an Associate Director in the Rewiring the Nation team at the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. Dennis specialises in investments in the distributed energy resources sector. Dennis’s experience has been in originating and executing corporate, project and investment banking business in the energy, natural resources, infrastructure and utilities sectors across Australia and EMEA. Prior to joining the CEFC, Dennis covered global energy majors at Mizuho Bank in London and corporates in the Natural Resources and Infrastructure sectors at Commonwealth Bank of Australia in both London and Sydney. Dennis holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Sydney.
Speaking at
12:15
Financing initiatives which deliver smarter and more stable grids
Matt Cheney
Executive Manager Energy Transition & SustainabilityWestern Power
Within a rapidly changing energy landscape as Australia moves towards net-zero, Matt Cheney leads Energy Transition & Sustainability at Western Power, the network operator of WA’s main electricity grid. Responsible for delivering a whole-of-organisation approach to energy, sustainability and decarbonisation, Matt oversees the significant work underway to deliver key transmission projects required to support the renewable generation needed to enable industry decarbonisation.
With more than 20 years’ experience in business and management systems, planning, operations and service delivery, Matt has initiated and led industry-changing projects including grid transformation and performance. He has led the delivery of future-focused energy initiatives to manage the increasing uptake of solar including advanced metering infrastructure, Western Power’s role as Distribution System Operator and ongoing integration of EVs.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: What are pathways to upgrading aging infrastructure to handle increased renewable generation and new load patterns?
15:50
Orchestrating distributed energy resources for a resilient energy future: insights from Project Symphony
Jai Thomas
Deputy Director General - Coordinator of EnergyEnergy Policy WA
Jai Thomas is the Deputy Director General – Coordinator of Energy and leads the Energy Policy WA (EPWA) group within the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.
With over 15 years of experience in the energy sector Jai brings a wealth of knowledge to this role, having previously held key regulatory and project delivery roles at both Horizon Power and Western Power before joining EPWA.
As Coordinator of Energy, Jai oversees Western Australia’s energy policy and regulatory framework, providing advice to the Minister for Energy on everything from policy development to navigating the energy transition.
Driven by a passion for finding practical solutions to complex problems, Jai is committed to using regulatory reforms and market mechanisms to deliver a sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy future for Western Australia - ensuring positive outcomes for the State’s communities, households, and industry.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What will it take to welcome more CER to the grid?
Glenn Springall
GM Renewables & Distributed EnergyEnergy Queensland
Glenn Springall is Energy Queensland’s General Manager of the Renewables and Distributed Energy group. The team focuses on fringe of grid innovation, demand and energy management solutions, network connections including technical performance assessment and standards, Isolated Systems asset management and decarbonisation along with the development of a cohesive future network strategy.
Glenn holds a dual Bachelor Engineering (Electrical/Electronic) and Bachelor Science (Chemistry), a Master of Business Administration (Digital Transformation), is a Chartered Professional Engineer, a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland and is a Graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What will it take to welcome more CER to the grid?
Andrew Linnie
Executive General Manager DistributionAusNet
Andrew joined AusNet in 2020 and has more than 20 years’ experience in major project delivery in the energy sector. He is responsible for leading a safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable regulated distribution network today and into the future, fulfilling customer, community and stakeholder needs and expectations.
Prior to joining AusNet, he held leadership roles with CitiPower and Powercor, and has delivered major projects across the civil and construction industries.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What will it take to welcome more CER to the grid?
Michael Jary
Managing Director, EMEA & APACSense
Michael is the Managing Director of EMEA & APAC at Sense, chartered with expanding the company’s global footprint into Europe, Middle East, and Asia Pacific.
Michael brings over 20 years of experience in consulting, strategy and leadership in energy and climate tech. Michael began his career with Accenture before serving as Head of Strategy for two of the UK’s largest energy retailers, British Gas and SSE. He then built and led SSE’s Smart Home business unit, “Home Intelligence”.
Before joining Sense, Michael was Managing Director at Verv, a climate tech scale backed by British Gas and Innogy. Michael holds an MBA from the University of Warwick as well as a BA in History from Birmingham University.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What will it take to welcome more CER to the grid?
Jill Cainey
Founder and Chief Executive OfficerErne Energy
Dr Jill Cainey MBE is the founder and CEO of Erne Energy, supporting the energy sector to understand the impacts and risks of climate change as Australia electrifies the future.
Jill has advocated for the interests of electricity storage in the UK and Europe, and for electricity transmission and distribution networks, renewable energy developers and Consumer Energy Resources in Australia.
Combining expertise in climate science, electricity regulation and policy, Jill focusses on the impact of extreme weather on electricity systems, representing consumers and communities to ensure that they have access to a resilient and low-cost source of clean electricity.
Speaking at
09:00
Opening remarks from the Chair
Raewyn Moss
Executive General Manager, Customer and External AffairsTranspower (New Zealand)
Raewyn Is Transpower NZ Ltd.’s Executive General Manager Customer and External Affairs, having previously heading the Transformation and Auckland Strategy division. Raewyn has a background in environmental, property and regulatory matters together with a strong stakeholder engagement focus. She has worked in consultancy within industry and for a regulator. Raewyn has worked in the electricity sector for over 20 years, both at Transpower and Meridian Energy. She holds a BSc from Victoria University and a Diploma in Business from Henley Management College.
Speaking at
10:00
Streamlining NZ’s connections processes for increasing generation and load
Chloe Hicks
Executive Director, Strategy and PolicyEnergy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo)
Chloe Hicks is the Executive Director of Strategy and Policy at EnergyCo. Chloe is responsible for driving EnergyCo’s corporate and business strategy, strategic policy and advice, and regulatory processes, including access schemes.
Chloe has extensive experience and expertise in energy and government processes. She has been instrumental in delivering major energy, climate and economic reforms, including the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and Renewable Energy Zones. She is passionate about ensuring energy infrastructure is developed in a way that benefits consumers and regional communities.
Speaking at
11:15
Upgrading network infrastructure to power a renewable future
Gavin Currie
Consulting Principal
Leonardo
Throughout his career, Gavin has spearheaded digital transformation projects that have revolutionized operational efficiency and customer experience for major energy organizations. His expertise spans business process management, automation, AI implementation, and data analytics specifically tailored to the evolving energy landscape. His deep industry knowledge and technology expertise position him as a trusted advisor to energy sector leaders seeking to harness digital innovation for competitive advantage in today's rapidly changing market.
Speaking at
11:45
Applying technology to enhance energy generation
Anthony Fowler
Chief Executive OfficerTilt Renewables
Anthony commenced as Chief Executive Officer of Tilt Renewables in February 2024.
Prior to joining Tilt Renewables, Anthony was the Chief Executive Officer of Lochard Energy, a leading midstream energy infrastructure business owned by some of Australia’s most prominent infrastructure investors. Previous roles include as the Group Executive at AGL responsible for Australia’s largest generation portfolio, energy trading and commercial and industrial retail.
Anthony has a Bachelor of Science (honours), Masters in Applied Finance and is a graduate of the Harvard Advanced Management Program.
Speaking at
12:05
Prioritising vital infrastructure to support renewable generation projects
13:50
Panel discussion: Will incentivising new dispatchable capacity (through the CIS) drive energy security or delay renewable transition?
Shreejan Pandey
DirectorMonash Energy Institute
Shreejan Pandey is the Director of the Monash Energy Institute at Monash University, where he enables industry partnership research and training initiatives to address critical challenges in the energy transition. Previously, he led New Zealand's peak industry research and education sponsorship centre, the Electric Power Engineering Centre (EPECentre). With a background in power systems engineering, Shreejan has designed utility-scale substations and wind farms, contributed to technical standards, and led the development of industry guidelines and energy policy.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: Will incentivising new dispatchable capacity (through the CIS) drive energy security or delay renewable transition?
Tibor Schwartz
Head of Energy InnovationHMC Capital
Tibor Schwartz is a passionate advocate for energy transition, with a career spanning over 30 years across investment management of infrastructure including the energy sector, operational roles in mining, exploration, and technology sectors, and consulting roles focusing on capital intensive sectors. As Head of Energy Innovation at HMC Capital, Tibor is at the forefront of investment strategies aimed at tackling one of the greatest challenges of our time – the transition to a sustainable energy system. His role is part of HMC’s Energy Transition platform, where he uses his extensive experience to capitalise on significant investment opportunities in the sector.
Prior to joining HMC Capital, Tibor held key roles in Fund Management, Consulting, ICT and Mining & Exploration, working for prominent organisations such as QIC, Partners in Performance, Ericsson, Telstra, NBN, and Vodafone. His expertise includes investment management, strategy development, R&D, and product innovation across Australia, Asia, North America, and Europe.
In addition to his role at HMC, Tibor serves as a Non-Executive Director at Dewpoint Innovations and is an active Advisory Committee Member for the School of Chemistry at the University of Sydney. He is also the former Chair of Archer Materials’ Quantum Technology Advisory Board, where he provided technical and strategic guidance on quantum technology advancements. Tibor is a former member of the Governance of Technology and Innovation Panel of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Tibor’s educational background includes an MBA in Technology Management from Deakin University, an MSc in Applied Geophysics from Comenius University and he is a graduate of the AICD Company Directors course.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: Will incentivising new dispatchable capacity (through the CIS) drive energy security or delay renewable transition?
Gordon Taylor
Executive General Manager of Major ProjectsTransgrid
Gordon Taylor is an experienced industry leader, having held executive management roles at Thiess Construction, Ergon Energy, Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA) and Ventia Infrastructure Services.
Starting his career as a transmission network planner, Gordon has extensive experience in infrastructure design and construction, energy regulatory processes and utility operations and maintenance.
Gordon has bid for and delivered more than $25 billon of projects in roads, rail, civil and utilities, including some of the largest PPP projects in South Africa and Australia. These projects include the Victorian Desalination Project ($3.5 billion) and the Suburban Roads Upgrade project ($2 billion). He has also delivered environmentally sensitive and live infrastructure work within communities across Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: Will incentivising new dispatchable capacity (through the CIS) drive energy security or delay renewable transition?
Jad El Sebaaly
Vice President
Powerships Australia
Jad El Sebaaly is a vice president at Powerships Australia, an Asia arm of Karpowership with a global energy transition company with over 7500MW installed capacity and operational footprint across over 20 countries.
As an energy sector veteran, Jad plays a critical role in the growth of company’s reach in Asia while maintaining strong relationships with the key stakeholders in the region.
With 16 years of experience in the field, Jad spent most of his time at General Electric across different roles in various markets including the U.S., Singapore, UAE and Qatar. An engineer by training, Jad has led the on-time delivery of Steam and Gas Turbine outages in the Middle East and moved to Singapore to serve as the Sales Director for GE's power portfolio Parts (Gas Turbines, Steam Turbines, and Generators) covering Asia. He earned his MBA from INSEAD 2016.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: Will incentivising new dispatchable capacity (through the CIS) drive energy security or delay renewable transition?
Tony Wood
Energy Program DirectorGrattan Institute
Tony has been Director of the Energy Program since 2011 after 14 years working at Origin Energy in senior executive roles.
From 2009 to 2014 he was also Program Director of Clean Energy Projects at the Clinton Foundation, advising governments in the Asia-Pacific region on effective deployment of large-scale, low-emission energy technologies. In 2008, he was seconded to provide an industry perspective to the first Garnaut climate change review.
In January 2018, Tony was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of his significant service to conservation and the environment, particularly in the areas of energy policy, climate change and sustainability. In October 2019, Tony was elected as a Fellow to the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering.
Speaking at
14:50
Mitigating the consequences of a disorderly transition from coal generation in Australia
10:10
Panel discussion: What are the most critical reforms to make energy markets fit for purpose?
Sue Elliott
Operations and Projects ExecutiveEnergyAustralia
Sue was appointed EnergyAustralia’s Operations and Projects Executive in September 2023, and is responsible for coal and gas generation assets.
Sue joined the business in 2020 as Head of Operations Excellence. Previously, she was with ExxonMobil for 25 years, and held various operational leadership roles at Esso Australia including Safety, Security, Health, Environment and Regulatory Manager, Gippsland Basin Optimisation Manager and Offshore Oil Asset Manager.
Sue has a degree in mechanical engineering from Adelaide University, and an MBA from the University of Melbourne.
Speaking at
15:50
Leveraging gas in Australia's energy transition
16:20
Panel discussion: What is the future of gas?
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Suzie Jakobovits
GM Renewable GasJemena
Suzie is the General Manager of Renewable Gas at Jemena. She is responsible for leading and delivering Jemena’s Renewable Gas Strategy and driving the establishment and growth of a renewable gas market to provide an alternative decarbonisation pathway for consumers.
Suzie has spent the last 25 years working across the energy sector, with in depth experience in strategy, sustainability and renewables. She holds a double degree in Commerce (Finance) and Science (Mathematics) from the University of Melbourne.
Suzie is an experienced strategic planning specialist and operational manager, highly regarded for her passionate and collaborative approach to driving effective and impactful change.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What is the future of gas?
Andrew Thornton
Executive General Manager Integrated GasOrigin Energy
Andrew joined Origin in 2012 and was appointed as Executive General Manager – Integrated Gas in November 2021.
Andrew is responsible for Origin’s role as upstream operator and for the marketing of domestic gas on behalf of Australia Pacific LNG. He also has accountability for Origin’s activities in renewable fuels.
Prior to joining Origin in 2012, Andrew spent 10 years in private equity and investment banking, including at Goldman Sachs where he served as an Executive Director in the Principal Investment Area. Andrew has also held commercial roles with the Super Retail Group, and has investment banking experience in London and Sydney, where he worked in M&A and capital markets.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What is the future of gas?
Melissa Perrow
General Manager EnergyBrickworks Building Products
Melissa Perrow is the General Manager Energy at Brickworks Limited and is responsible for managing the company’s energy needs as a large user of electricity and gas. Through its ownership of Austral Bricks, Brickworks is one of Australia’s largest natural gas consumers and directly buys gas on a wholesale basis, acting as its own gas retailer across the east coast gas market. Melissa is a leading advocate for renewable biomethane as a pathway to decarbonise hard-to-abate manufacturing emissions. Melissa has 20 years of wholesale energy trading experience gained across electricity, gas, carbon and green markets. She holds a Bachelor in Applied Science, a Bachelor of Business, a Graduate Diploma in Technology, a Post Graduate Certificate in Applied Finance and is currently studying a Global MBA.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What is the future of gas?
Jo De Silva
General Manager Retail PolicyAustralian Energy Council
Jo De Silva is the General Manager Retail Policy at the Australian Energy Council. Jo was most recently a senior leader at the Australian Energy Market Operator (ISP Consumer Panel) and Energy & Water Ombudsman SA, experienced in representing the long-term interests of different cohorts of energy consumers in regulatory and technical processes. Jo has served as a member of the Energy Security Board Stakeholder Steering Group and the National Customer Code Council for Comparators and Moving Services.
Jo was a member of the Australian Energy Regulator Consumer Reference Group, all four Energy Security Board National Energy Guarantee Technical Working Groups and the Australian Energy Market Commission System Security Technical Working Group. Heading up energy policy at the South Australian Council of Social Service for around a decade, Jo convened the National Consumer Roundtable on Energy and was an inaugural member of the AER’s Consumer Challenge Panel. Jo is a former Judge of the South Australian Premier’s Mining and Energy Awards.
Speaking at
09:00
Opening remarks from the Chair
Clare Savage
ChairAustralian Energy Regulator (AER)
Clare Savage was appointed Chair of the Australian Energy Regulator in October 2019 and is Chair of the Energy Advisory Panel (formerly the Energy Security Board). In September 2024 Clare was also appointed as Chair of the Regulator Leadership Cohort.
Over more than 21 years, Clare has acquired significant leadership experience in the Australian energy industry. She has a passion for the energy sector and a commitment to its development, particularly through this current transition.
Prior to joining the AER, Clare was Deputy Chair of the Energy Security Board. Prior to joining the ESB, Clare held a variety of roles including senior executive positions within EnergyAustralia spanning corporate strategy; business development; policy & government affairs; and public affairs.
Prior to this Clare held a range of positions at the Energy Supply Association of Australia including Chief Executive Officer. Clare commenced her career in the public service – initially in the UK and then at the Federal Department of the Treasury.
Clare has a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) and a Bachelor of Arts (Politics and History) from The University of Melbourne and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Speaking at
09:10
Navigating challenges in Australia's energy market to improve the energy consumer experience
Mayur Bhaskar
Managing Director - Utilities Industry Lead for Australia & New ZealandAccenture Australia & New Zealand
Mayur is a Managing Director at Accenture, where he leads the Utilities Industry Portfolio for Australia and New Zealand.
Mayur has extensive experience across APAC in guiding Energy and Utilities organizations through transformative change and industry regulations. He specializes in developing innovative strategies that address the opportunities of Customer Experience, Data & AI, Decarbonization, Digitalization, and the Energy Transition.
Under Mayur’s leadership, Accenture has collaborated with Utilities Leaders across the region to create sustainable, efficient, and customer-centric energy solutions. A recognized thought leader in the sector, Mayur combines deep industry insights with a passion for driving meaningful change in Australia's energy landscape.
Mayur is also actively engaged in shaping the future of the industry through contributions to community initiatives and industry forums. As a champion of innovation and sustainability, he is dedicated to accelerating our journey toward a net-zero future.
Speaking at
09:40
Integrating technology and operations to streamline retail processes and drive transformation success
Lyn Bowring
Executive Director, Consumer, Community, and First Peoples’ Energy TransitionsVic Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
Lyn Bowring is an Executive Director in Victorian Government Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, where her leadership of the Consumer, Communities and First Peoples’ Energy Transition Division aligns with her passion for putting humans at the centre. She has oversight of Policy, Programs and Service Delivery focused on a fit for purpose consumer energy market including affordability and protections; enabling self-determination in the energy transition; and supporting community participation in energy.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: How can energy retailers rebuild consumer trust and social licence?
Alistair Burke
Chief Operating OfficerAurora Energy
Alistair joined Aurora Energy in 2016 and is responsible for leading the Customer Success team, encompassing frontline customer operations, credit management, business improvement, resource planning and reporting, customer advocacy and metering delivery. Prior to this, Alistair led Aurora Energy’s Legal, Risk and Compliance team responsible for legal services, risk and compliance, internal audit, procurement, regulatory and policy.
Alistair has a Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Laws, is a Graduate of the Australian of Company Directors and a Graduate of the Tasmanian Leaders Program. He's worked across senior leadership roles in both public administration and commercial environments across multiple jurisdictions.
Born and bred Tasmanian, having grown up on Hobart’s Eastern Shore and completing his studies at the University of Tasmania, Alistair is a proud and passionate Tasmanian and is committed to supporting customers and providing a reliable, tailored and trusted service for all Tasmanians. Alistair is involved in various community and local sporting organisations, and when not at work or spending time with his young family can usually be found watching or taking part in some form of sporting activity.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: How can energy retailers rebuild consumer trust and social licence?
Brendan French
Chief Executive OfficerEnergy Consumers Australia
Dr Brendan French is a leading consumer protection and dispute resolution expert, with extensive executive experience across corporate, academic, public, and community spheres.
Prior to joining Energy Consumers Australia as CEO, Brendan championed consumer interests as the Commonwealth Bank’s Executive General Manager Customer and Community Advocacy and before that as Deputy Ombudsman at the Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON). He also taught in the Law School at Western Sydney University, was a Board director for a number of consumer and charitable organisations, and is a published author of academic and popular texts. Brendan holds a doctorate in the History of Ideas and has been awarded for his innovative work on fostering trust between community, corporates and government.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: How can energy retailers rebuild consumer trust and social licence?
Lisa Chiba
Managing DirectorMomentum Energy
Lisa Chiba was appointed managing director of Momentum Energy in January 2022, having spent her career in a variety of leadership roles across retail utilities and financial services in Australia and the UK.
Lisa’s professional passions are promoting diversity and inclusion in the workforce; and helping businesses and households participate in Australia’s transition to a clean energy future. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Laws with honours and a Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communications) from the University of Melbourne. Lisa was a panellist at the 2022 AFR Climate Summit and she is a mentor in the Clean Energy Council’s Women in Renewables mentoring program.
Lisa is a Member of the Champions of Change Energy Group. The Group brings together representatives from the energy sector including energy generation and production, distribution, retail and resources businesses across Australia.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: How can energy retailers rebuild consumer trust and social licence?
Katalin Polus
Head of Customer MarketingSynergy
Katalin Polus is an accomplished leader with over 15 years of experience across four continents, having worked in diverse sectors including commodities, chemicals, and energy. Currently the Head of Customer Marketing at Synergy, Katalin is responsible for driving strategic improvements in customer engagement and marketing performance. She has held a series of leadership roles within Synergy, including Pricing & Performance Manager and Pricing & Portfolio Lead, where she led cross-business initiatives to optimise retail pricing strategies and methodologies.
Prior to her work at Synergy, Katalin held global roles at Henkel, where she was Head of Global Pricing for Packaging Adhesives. In this role, she spearheaded a transformational change initiative, driving pricing excellence across international markets. Her earlier career with Rio Tinto saw her contribute significantly to strategic marketing and business development efforts, including the launch of a new sustainable aluminium brand.
Known for her innovative approach and ability to leverage team strengths, Katalin excels at solving complex problems and delivering continuous value improvements. She is passionate about challenging traditional business models and driving strategic change across industries. With her extensive international experience, Katalin continues to play a key role in shaping the future of energy and marketing innovation.
Speaking at
10:00
Panel discussion: How can energy retailers rebuild consumer trust and social licence?
13:50
Panel discussion: How can we maximise the role of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Australia’s energy future?
Chris Thompson
Chief Executive Officer and FounderAmber Electric
Amber was founded by two Aussie mates, Chris Thompson and Dan Adams in December 2017, with the goal of using new technologies to benefit customers and build a more sustainable world.
Chris is motivated by using new technologies to improve people’s lives and Dan is passionate about moving the world towards 100% renewable energy.
Prior to Amber, Chris worked in Iran running Bamilo, Iran’s largest online marketplace and before that was with the Boston Consulting Group. Dan spent the last 10 years working with Tesla, the Boston Consulting Group and building social movements around climate change.
Speaking at
11:25
Exploring technical, policy and behavioural challenges and opportunities with the Energy Masters project
Jacob Mahoney
Chief Revenue OfficerFlow Power
As Chief Revenue Officer, Jacob leads a team of over forty professionals who help Australian businesses reshape how they manage energy. He’s passionate about providing customers with real energy solutions that give them a competitive advantage, and allow them to contribute to the renewable energy transition.
With over 10 years' experience in the energy industry, Jacob's grasp of complex analytics and problem solving has resulted in the development of market-leading and innovative renewable products. He leads the team that introduced PPA’s (Power Purchase Agreements) to the Australian commercial & industrial retail market, and continues this cutting-edge approach with the development of PPA sleeving and demand-response products for the wholesale market.
Speaking at
12:15
Unlocking flexible demand potential for commercial and industrial customers
Janine Young
OmbudsmanEnergy & Water Ombudsman NSW
Janine Young was appointed Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW in November 2014, having gained extensive experience providing independent dispute resolution service as the Victorian Public Transport Ombudsman (2010-14) and Deputy Ombudsman at the Energy and Water Ombudsman (Victoria) (2003-2010).
Janine is passionate about social justice and ensuring essential services are accessible, especially for those experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, vulnerability. Across her career, Janine has focused on improving social inclusion and community connectedness and delivering innovative, accessible, and equitable services. This is critical for regional and rural NSW communities throughout the energy transition.
Janine is the Secretary/Treasurer of the Australian and New Zealand Ombudsman Association (ANZOA) and a member of Chief Executive Women. Janine holds undergraduate qualifications in Marketing and Management, an MBA and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Speaking at
14:00
Strengthening community engagement in renewable energy projects through dispute resolution
Libby Dale
Co-FounderSmartMeasures
Libby Dale is a digital professional passionate about all things related to clever technology for business, especially where caring for customers is concerned. After a lifetime in large enterprises, Libby co-founded SmartMeasures creating ground-breaking solutions that combine AI with behavioural science to help large companies retain customers and reduce customer debt in a way that is truly helpful to customers.
The SmartMeasures churn reduction solution has been helping companies retain customers since 2018 and the debt reduction solution was launched in 2023.
Speaking at
14:30
Approaching customer debt differently
Krystal Skinner
Executive General Manager Remote CommunitiesHorizon Power
Krystal Skinner currently oversees Horizon Power’s Remote Communities Division, responsible for all aspects of power generation, distribution network operations and retail services to 117 remote communities across Western Australia.
Krystal has extensive experience in WA’s energy sector including working for Western Australian energy retailer Synergy prior to commencing with Horizon Power.
Krystal understands how to put customers and communities at the centre of decision-making, empowering them to actively participate in the energy transition and was Horizon Power’s Executive General Manager of Customer and Community prior to taking on the Remote Communities function. Recent achievements have included critical incident response, ensuring continuity of power supplies despite sustained wet season impacts throughout the 2023/24 summer season, the successful implementation of priority asset programs, including the removal of PVC cable and twisties from all remote networks to improve the safety and reliability of network and generation assets and recent upgrades to Cockatoo Springs and Chile Creek power stations. As Executive General Manager of Customer and Community highlights also included the delivery of community batteries and the Solar Schools program.
Krystal was a finalist for the Australian Institute of Energy’s WA Energy Professional of the Year in 2019, and Deputy Chair of the National Industry Working Group for the Energy Charter during 2021.
Speaking at
14:50
Delivering energy equity in remote communities: Closing the gap through ambition and opportunity
Ralph Griffiths
General Manager of Policy and RegulationAGL
Speaking at
15:50
Matching policy and regulation to the needs of the evolving energy consumer
Louisa Kinnear
Chief Executive OfficerAustralian Energy Council
Louisa Kinnear assumed the role of Chief Executive of the Australian Energy Council in September 2024.
Prior to this, Louisa was the Chief Executive Officer at Jacana Energy, the largest energy retailer in the Northern Territory. She has also held senior roles at Synergy, Western Power and Water Corporation and previously worked for the Department of the Premier and Cabinet in Western Australia.
For the past 15 years, Louisa has helped governments, businesses, and customers across various jurisdictions navigate and benefit from the renewable energy transition. She is a strong advocate for fostering collaboration across the energy sector to ensure a successful transition.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What changes are needed to make energy retail regulations fit for purpose?
David Burns
Resources and Energy Industry Lead for ANZAccenture Australia & New Zealand
David Burns heads up Accenture’s global Natural Resources practice. He guides the strategy, offerings and growth of the practice, leading multi-disciplinary teams of digital, business and engineering professionals worldwide as they assist mining, metals, forestry and other natural resources companies to transform core operations—making them safer, smarter, more competitive, and more sustainable.
David has more than 25 years’ experience in this sector, and has worked extensively with mining, energy and chemicals companies, among others. He is recognized for his industry insight and ability to assist global companies in transforming amid unprecedented technology and industry disruption. He is also a strong advocate of responsible business practices—zero harm, zero loss, zero waste.
He authors thought leadership for Accenture’s Natural Resources practice and contributes to leading industry publications.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What changes are needed to make energy retail regulations fit for purpose?
Clare Archer
Senior Manager - Operations & ComplianceNectr
Clare Archer is an accomplished leader in the Australian energy sector, bringing over five years of experience across retail operations, compliance, and customer engagement. Currently serving as Senior Manager of Operations & Compliance at Nectr, Clare has been instrumental in overseeing key operational processes since joining the company in 2023. Her role includes managing compliance frameworks and ensuring smooth delivery of retail energy services.
Prior to Nectr, Clare held managerial positions at Social Energy, where she worked on retail energy operations, and at sonnen Australia Pty Ltd, where she led eServices and customer relationship initiatives. Clare’s ability to navigate the complexities of customer experience in the renewable energy space has contributed to the success of several innovative clean energy companies.
Clare holds a Bachelor of Science in Climate Science from Macquarie University, underscoring her commitment to sustainable energy practices. With a deep understanding of the energy industry and a passion for operational excellence, Clare continues to drive positive change in Australia’s transition to a cleaner energy future.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What changes are needed to make energy retail regulations fit for purpose?
Steve Reid
General Manager Regulatory PolicyOrigin Energy
Steve is a senior energy professional with over 17 years’ experience in policy reform and regulatory development across both gas and electricity markets.
Having worked in government and the private sector, Steve understands the policy and regulatory objectives of both regulators and industry stakeholders, particularly as it relates to the significant transition underway in Australia’s energy markets.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What changes are needed to make energy retail regulations fit for purpose?
David Perry
Co-Founder & Chief Technology OfficerBOOM! Power
Dr. David Perry is the Co-founder and CTO of BOOM! Power, Australia's leading platform for home electrification, with customers including Bank Australia, ING and ActewAGL.
David has worked on energy and climate for 15 years, with technical expertise encompassing electronics, software, energy modelling and supercomputers.
David is a Director at Hepburn Energy, Australia's first community-owned wind farm, where he has been instrumental in operations, engagement, and the development of new infrastructure.
David holds degrees in behavioral neuroscience and electrical engineering, including a PhD from the University of Melbourne.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What changes are needed to make energy retail regulations fit for purpose?
Michael Frangos
Chief Executive OfficerIndigenous Energy Australia (IEA)
Michael combines agility and determination from his entrepreneurship, sound technical ability, commercial acumen, and a deep understanding of the function of organisations, to identify and obtain value for all organisations he is a part of.
Michael is a proficient technical engineer having experience in electrical, chemical and mechanical fields building on these technical skills with a high degree of commercial acumen, sound knowledge of commercialisation and R&D processes, world class operations and lean management, organisational architecture. He also has an expert knowledge in community engagement, and in development of socially driven, commercially conscious business models. This repertoire has led Michael to develop the ability to identify and achieve shared outcomes in cross functional settings with a large depth and breadth. Michael is currently involved in several projects including operationalisation of commercial opportunities, organisational architecture, cultural transformation, ingraining innovation as BAU and development of utilities and infrastructure with remote, regional and vulnerable communities.
Michael is driven to achieve holistic value, close the gap and mitigate the impacts of Anthropogenic Climate Change.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: What changes are needed to make energy retail regulations fit for purpose?
Shannon O'Rourke
Chief Executive Officer and Managing DirectorPowering Australia
Shannon O'Rourke is the Chief Executive Officer of Powering Australia, a federally funded industry growth centre that is helping to grow domestic clean-tech manufacturing by connecting businesses, accelerating commercialisation activity and building workforce capability spanning solar, wind, industrial decarbonisation, carbon, transport and battery sectors. Shannon is a member of the Advisory Board for the Clean Energy Skills National Centre of Excellence (CESNCE) and the State Training Board.
He has previously led the Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre (FBICRC) for a period of three years overseeing significant growth in government expenditure in the industry and proposed the development of the National Battery Strategy that was recently delivered by the federal government.
Shannon's career spans over 25 years in the energy sector, having held senior management positions at Woodside and Chevron, as well as contributing to industrial research with Rio Tinto. His career spans both traditional and renewable energy markets, with a proven track record in commercialising research outcomes.
Speaking at
09:00
Opening remarks from the Chair
Domenic Capomolla
Chief Executive OfficerPacific Blue Australia
Domenic assumed the role of Interim CEO in late December 2021 and was appointed permanent CEO in March 2022.
With a history of starting and operating energy retailers in Australia and Asia, Domenic has held chief executive and senior executive roles with Sumo Power, where he was a founder, Alinta Energy, Simply Energy/International Power and Sembcorp Power (Singapore) spanning 20 years. He has established a reputation for taking start-up energy retailers and growing them into established, high-performing, profitable and customer focussed businesses. Domenic has formal tertiary qualifications in Mathematics and Applied Finance.
Prior to his appointment as Pacific Blue's CEO, Domenic was CEO of Tango Energy, Pacific Blue's retail arm, since 2018. Since its launch in 2016, Tango Energy has established itself as one of the fastest-growing electricity retailers in Australia and has won a number of consumer awards, including the most recent Canstar Blue awards for Most Trusted Electricity Provider – National 2024, Most Satisfied Customers Dual Fuel – National 2024, Most Satisfied Customers Electricity – VIC 2023, Most Satisfied Customers Gas – VIC 2023.
Speaking at
09:10
Comparing batteries and pumped hydro for Australia’s energy storage needs
Kotub Uddin
Chief EngineerEnvision Energy
Dr. Kotub Uddin is a global leader in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and dried innovation, serving as Chief Engineer at Envision Energy and CTO of Velocita, Envision's EPC-focused European subsidiary. With over 15 years of experience across R&D, system integration, and strategic energy planning, Kotub plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of clean energy infrastructure.
A published thought leader with 30+ technical papers, Kotub's work has spanned from developing advanced VPP capabilities at OVO Energy to leading electric vehicle innovation at Jaguar Land Rover. His expertise lies at the intersection of technology and energy strategy-designing grid-scale storage systems, defining technical standards, and enabling global renewable integration.
His leadership spans end-end system design-from cell-level engineering to grid integration - enabling BESS to not just store energy, but actively enhance grid reliability, flexibility, and market value through advanced controls, intelligent O&M, and strategic regulatory alignment.
Speaking at
09:40
Advancing energy storage through innovations in technology to improve efficiency, price and performance
Alex Wonhas
Chief Executive OfficerAmpyr Energy
Alex is a respected and proven senior executive and thought leader who has shaped the national and state-based strategic agenda in the energy sector through his work at AEMO, Aurecon, CSIRO and McKinsey.
He is currently the CEO of Ampyr Energy, a renewable energy company, on track to delivering 3 GW of BESS projects across Australia by 2030. He is also a non-executive director of the Energy Corporation of NSW, which is orchestrating NSW’s rapid energy transition through the delivery of the NSW Renewable Energy Zones. Prior, Alex oversaw the development of the Integrated System Plan (ISP) as EGM System Design at the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). Alex also held a number of senior executive roles at Aurecon, an engineering firm where he led their energy and resources work globally, and at CSIRO, where he led their energy and resources research.
Speaking at
10:00
Analysing the place of energy storage in Australia's net-zero future
16:20
Panel discussion: How can the regulatory environment be made more ‘storage-friendly’?
Vida Cheeseman
Head of Corporate CommunicationsEndeavour Energy
Vida is a versatile, creative and strategic senior communications professional with a track record of delivering award winning results for large Australian and multinational organisations.
As a trusted and skilled advisor for C-level executives, she has over 20 years' experience working across the broad spectrum of corporate affairs including media relations, government relations and analyst relations; internal communications; issues management; reputation management; social media; stakeholder relations; and community engagement.
Vida is a passionate leader whose dedication to solving complex problems with “big picture" thinking has resulted in 12 local and international PR awards. She delivers business outcomes that impact positively on reputation and bottom line, through strategy formulation, strategic counsel and hands-on implementation.
Speaking at
11:15
Fostering the environmental and economic benefits of community batteries for participants and the wider community
Stephanie Unwin
Chief Executive OfficerHorizon Power
As Chief Executive Officer of Horizon Power, Stephanie Unwin leads a team of 600+ energy professionals to deliver power to some of Western Australia’s most remote and regional communities.
Under her leadership, Horizon Power is transforming the energy landscape across regional WA, providing power through an increasingly decentralised delivery model. Horizon Power operates 38 energy systems, delivering energy to approximately 47,000 residential, business and pre-payment meter accounts across 2.3 million square kilometres of rugged and remote territory.
Stephanie is passionate about collaboration, inclusion and diversity to build an engaged and inspired workforce. Her ability to facilitate change on a foundation of safety is delivering Horizon Power’s vision of innovative customer choices, reduced costs and a cleaner energy future by reducing Horizon Power’s carbon footprint and investing in new technologies such as hydrogen.
Stephanie is a recognised energy industry leader, having joined Verve Energy in 2008, continuing into its transition to Synergy. She has significant executive and Board-level experience with publicly listed companies, including Alacer Gold Corp, Zenith Energy, Integra Mining Limited, and several non-listed joint ventures. She was a board member of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency from April 2018 to July 2023, and is currently a board member of Energy Vault, Energy Networks Australia. Stephanie is also a Senate member of Murdoch University.
Stephanie brings a depth of experience as CEO of an energy utility operating across generation, transmission, distribution, and retailing. She is passionate about energy equity and believes that transitioning to renewable sources should be accessible to all, enabling everyone in the community to participate in the new energy landscape and reap the positive environmental and economic benefits that come with it.
Speaking at
12:05
A customer-led energy transition: How Australia’s most remote energy utility is driving CER uptake
16:20
Panel discussion: How can the regulatory environment be made more ‘storage-friendly’?
Ryan Wavish
General Manager Innovation, ENGIE RetailENGIE Australia & New Zealand
Ryan is the General Manager Innovation at ENGIE Retail where he has been on a mission to build the business model of the future. He is an experienced energy sector professional with over 15 years’ experience in the Australian market and is determined to make a difference in accelerating the transition to net zero. He is a leading expert in the product, technology and business model innovations enabling consumers to participate in this transition.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can we maximise the role of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Australia’s energy future?
Dean Spaccavento
Chief Executive OfficerReposit Power
Before devoting his time to Reposit Power, Dean served as the Head of Technology for Energy Response which was acquired in by EnerNOC in 2011. Dean has a background in financial institutions, enterprise software and technology startups and uses his experience to deliver high-performance grid services to modern electricity systems.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can we maximise the role of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Australia’s energy future?
Caitlin Trethewy
Head of Virtual Power Plant Operations | TradingAGL
Caitlin is an engineer and business strategist with extensive experience in renewable energy and sustainability projects. She is passionate about Australia's energy transition with Bachelor of Renewable Energy Engineering (UNSW), Master in Public Policy (Harvard), and experience as a management consultant at McKinsey. Caitlin is skilled at getting things done in complex environments, and has experience working with stakeholders at all levels within public and private sector organisations. She currently leads the Virtual Power Plant Operations team at AGL Energy.
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can we maximise the role of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Australia’s energy future?
Matt Armitage
Director, EnergyErnst & Young Australia
Speaking at
13:50
Panel discussion: How can we maximise the role of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Australia’s energy future?
James Gerraty
Head Telstra EnergyTelstra
James was part of the Meridian Energy team that brought Powershop to Australia, before joining Telstra where he now leads their energy team.
Speaking at
14:50
Enhancing data centre cost efficiency through leveraging on-site power assets
Jean-Marie Verrier
Head of Renewables, Power & UtilitiesSumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC)
Jean-Marie Verrier is the Head of Renewables, Power & Utilities, Project Finance Australia at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC). With over 27 years of experience in project finance, Jean-Marie has led the financing of a diverse range of assets, including thermal power plants, wind and solar farms, batteries, transmission lines, smart meters, LNG projects, gas pipelines, underground gas storage, and more. He spent 19 years in Sydney covering these sectors in Australia, and 8 years in New York, covering North and South America.
Before his current position, Jean-Marie held several senior roles, including Executive Director of Power & Renewables and Credit Officer of SMBC, and Project Finance Director at two European banks. His extensive experience in structuring and originating project finance transactions has been crucial in the development of major energy projects across Australia.
His deep knowledge of project finance, combined with his strategic insights, make him a key figure in supporting Australia’s transition to a sustainable energy future. He is committed to driving innovation and growth within the renewable energy sector.
Speaking at
15:50
Navigating financial risks for battery investors amid uncertain revenue streams
Anton Rohner
Chief Executive OfficerPrivate Energy Partners
He is presently the Chief Executive Officer of Private Energy Partners, an affiliate of Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners.
Anton is currently the also the Founder and Director of UPC Nature and a Director of Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC), a joint venture between ACEN and the Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation.
Prior to this Anton was the founder and CEO for 7 years with UPC\ACEN Australia. UPC\ACEN Australia is a developer, constructor and operator of large Solar, Wind and BESS around Australia. Having built the business from two employees in Nov 2016, ACEN Australia in late 2024 has over 100 full-time professionals and over 1,000MW’s AC in construction and operations and 6,000MW's in advanced development.
Anton's experience includes over twenty-five years in managing the development and finance functions within the renewable energy and resources sectors, with five years as CFO for ASX200 listed companies. Anton was one of the original developers of wind in Australia in the early 2000s.
Before being a CFO Anton held the position of Managing Director for Renewable Energy and Utilities at Macquarie Bank in Hong Kong, where he was responsible for advising and securing developments in renewable energy and utilities across Asia and Africa. Furthermore, Anton was the Managing Director of Asia for Roaring 40s, based in Hong Kong, a partnership formed between China Light & Power and Hydro Tasmania to develop and operate sources of renewable energy throughout Asia and Australia in the 2000s. This partnership developed and financially closed over 2000MW's of wind in Asia and Australia.
Anton was one of the original developers of wind in Australia in the early 2000s.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: How can the regulatory environment be made more ‘storage-friendly’?
Emma Fagan
General Manager of Corporate AffairsAkaysha Energy
Emma Fagan is a specialist in renewable energy, climate change, and sustainability, with a deep background in policy and strategy development. Currently serving as the General Manager of Corporate Affairs at Akaysha Energy, Emma leverages her extensive expertise to drive initiatives that shape the clean energy landscape. She has a proven track record in collaborating with both the public and private sectors, providing strategic direction on long-term energy and carbon management, climate change policies, and energy market reform.
Prior to joining Akaysha Energy, Emma held several key positions, including Energy Policy and Business Development Manager at Tesla and Senior Manager at Energetics. At Tesla, she played a pivotal role in advancing energy storage and distributed energy solutions across Australia. Her time as a board member of the Clean Energy Council further solidified her influence in shaping national energy policies and carbon strategies.
Emma's career has seen her work closely with ASX-listed companies, governments, and financial institutions, advising on climate change investment risks and energy transition strategies. Her experience spans across consulting, government roles, and industry leadership. She is passionate about creating sustainable energy solutions that not only address environmental challenges but also drive economic growth.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: How can the regulatory environment be made more ‘storage-friendly’?
Natalie Hanna
Energy Market DirectorAtkinsRéalis
Natalie is an experienced business development and strategy professional with a robust technical background in the energy, construction, infrastructure, and resource industries. She has cultivated strong relationships with stakeholders in the renewable energy and transmission sectors.
Now at AtkinsRéalis, Natalie excels at translating the complexities of a decarbonizing world and the energy transition into tangible business value. She integrates sustainability and systems thinking into her approach to identifying, designing, and constructing infrastructure, driving positive change across the business and beyond.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: How can the regulatory environment be made more ‘storage-friendly’?
Sara Taylor
Director - Regulatory and Government AffairsHydrostor
Sara Taylor leads Hydrostor’s Government and Regulatory Affairs in Australia. She has over 15 years of regulatory and compliance experience across the Australian energy sector, including roles with regulators, retailers, and network businesses. Prior to her role at Hydrostor, she worked at a major Australian bank, implementing new national cyber security legislation for critical infrastructure organisations.
Sara holds a Master of Science in Global Affairs from New York University, where she concentrated on Energy and Environment Policy.
Speaking at
16:20
Panel discussion: How can the regulatory environment be made more ‘storage-friendly’?
Adrian Kemp
PartnerHoustonKemp
Adrian Kemp is a founding partner of HoustonKemp and brings over 25 years of experience applying economic analysis to complex problems in business, policy and regulatory contexts. Since founding HoustonKemp in 2014, he has established himself as a leading expert in energy policy and market design, providing strategic advice to governments, corporations and regulators across Australia and internationally.
Adrian has extensive experience advising on the implications of climate change policies and renewable energy integration for electricity markets. He has led numerous high-profile engagements examining how market frameworks need to evolve to support the energy transition, including advising the Priority Transmission Taskforce on reforms to facilitate transmission investment, analyzing pathways to achieve renewable energy targets in the Northern Territory, and evaluating options for implementing energy storage in various jurisdictions. His work frequently involves complex modeling of wholesale electricity markets to analyse policy impacts and investment decisions.
In the regulatory space, Adrian has made significant contributions to the development of network regulation frameworks. He has advised the Australian Energy Market Commission on multiple aspects of the National Electricity Rules, including congestion management, network pricing principles, and incentive schemes. He has also played key roles in major regulatory reforms, including advising on the review of the Integrated System Plan, developing policy options to promote industrial decarbonisation in NSW and developing options to promote efficient provision of inertia to support the energy transition.
Beyond pure policy work, Adrian brings deep commercial insights from his experience advising on transactions and strategy in the energy sector. He has led numerous due diligence processes for energy asset sales and acquisitions, bringing his understanding of policy and regulatory risks to help investors navigate a rapidly evolving market. His combination of policy expertised and technical capabilities has made him a trusted advisor to energy sector stakeholders navigating the complexities of market transformation.
Speaking at
09:00
Opening remarks from Chair
Matt Kean
ChairClimate Change Authority
Matt was appointed as Chair of the authority on 5 August 2024 for a term of 5 years. He was previously the Member for Hornsby in the NSW Parliament from 2011 until 2 August 2024.
Matt was most recently the NSW Shadow Minister for Health. He was Deputy Leader of the NSW Liberal party from August 2022 until March 2023. Throughout his 13-year political career, Matt also held ministries of Innovation and Better Regulation, Treasury, Energy and Environment.
As Treasurer and Energy Minister of NSW, Matt championed climate action that is in the best interests of households and businesses. In 2020, he delivered the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap: A 20-year plan for NSW’s energy infrastructure. The roadmap spurs private investment in renewable energy while reducing emissions and power bills for the people of NSW.
Matt commenced in the role of Director, Regulatory Affairs and Strategic Partnerships at Wollemi Capital on 15 August 2024.
Matt studied a Bachelor of Business at the University of Technology Sydney and is a Chartered Accountant by profession.
Speaking at
09:10
Building momentum beyond the Capacity Investment Scheme: long term policy and market settings for a net zero energy system
Alison Reeve
Energy and Climate Change Deputy Program DirectorGrattan Institute
Alison Reeve is the Energy and Climate Change Deputy Program Director at Grattan Institute. She has two decades of experience in climate change, clean energy policy, and technology, in the private, public, academic, and not-for-profit sectors.
Alison was previously the General Manager of Project Delivery at the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and a Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University. She led development of Australia’s National Hydrogen Strategy in 2019, as well as Commonwealth policy for offshore wind, energy innovation, energy efficiency, and structural adjustment.
Alison has a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Queensland and a Masters of Public Policy with distinction from the Australian National University.
Speaking at
09:40
Preparing Australia for the energy transition: policies for a cleaner future
Frank Jotzo
Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy; Head of Energy, Institute for Climate Energy and Disaster SolutionsAustralian National University (ANU)
Frank Jotzo is Professor of environmental economics and climate change economics at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy, and director of the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy.
Frank Jotzo leads research on topics including decarbonisation strategies, economics of energy transition, policy instruments for climate change and environment, and international trade and investment. He has held senior authorship roles with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. He is a member of the NSW Net Zero Commission and chairs Queensland’s Clean Economy Expert Panel.
Speaking at
10:10
Panel discussion: What are the most critical reforms to make energy markets fit for purpose?
Suzanne Falvi
Executive General Manager, Corporate AffairsAGL
Suzanne joined AGL in May 2023 as Executive General Manager, Corporate Affairs.
Over the past 14 years Suzanne has worked extensively on a broad range of regulatory, governance and policy issues and leading reforms across energy and climate change frameworks. Formerly a dispute resolution lawyer, she has held numerous senior leadership roles at the Energy Security Board and the Australian Energy Market Commission and has deep experience in strategic stakeholder engagement and communications, strategy and economic analysis.
Suzanne holds a Bachelor of Economics, a Bachelor of Law (Honours) and a Master of Laws (International Law) from the Australian National University.
Speaking at
10:10
Panel discussion: What are the most critical reforms to make energy markets fit for purpose?
15:00
Panel discussion: Who is being left behind in the transition and how can they be meaningfully included?
Joel Gilmore
General Manager Energy Policy & PlanningIberdrola Australia
Dr Joel Gilmore is the General Manager Regulation & Energy Policy at Iberdrola Australia, with over fifteen years’ experience in market design, market modelling, and the technical and economic integration of renewable energy and green fuels into the grid. Joel also supports the integrated development of large-scale renewables, transmission, green hydrogen, and new loads. He previously led Iberdrola’s long-term market modelling team, developing business cases for both renewable and firming assets and has previously worked in roles across consulting, government, and AEMO. Joel is also an Associate Professor at Griffith University Business School focusing on the energy economics of renewables and renewable fuels, and an award winning science communicator.
Speaking at
10:10
Panel discussion: What are the most critical reforms to make energy markets fit for purpose?
12:30
Panel discussion: What are the pathways, timelines and replacement strategies for the exit of coal?
Elizabeth Molyneux
Deputy Secretary, EnergyVic Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
Dr Joel Gilmore is the General Manager Regulation & Energy Policy at Iberdrola Australia, with over fifteen years’ experience in market design, market modelling, and the technical and economic integration of renewable energy and green fuels into the grid. Joel also supports the integrated development of large-scale renewables, transmission, green hydrogen, and new loads. He previously led Iberdrola’s long-term market modelling team, developing business cases for both renewable and firming assets and has previously worked in roles across consulting, government, and AEMO. Joel is also an Associate Professor at Griffith University Business School focusing on the energy economics of renewables and renewable fuels, and an award winning science communicator.
Speaking at
10:10
Panel discussion: What are the most critical reforms to make energy markets fit for purpose?
Renate Vogt
General Manager, RegulationCitiPower, Powercor & United Energy
Renate is General Manager of Regulation for CitiPower, Powercor and United Energy. She is an experienced executive with over 20 years’ experience in electricity infrastructure, including working for the ACCC, AER, AusNet Services and CitiPower, Powercor and United Energy.
Renate’s remit includes revenue and market regulation, electricity innovation, developing commercial non-regulated business streams, customer engagement and development of corporate plans.
Renate’s experience includes government, regulatory, customer and shareholder relations. Renate is a strong advocate for customer outcomes and has been directly involved in cultural transformation of customer engagement and aligning business and customer objectives.
Renate has also actively participated in the development of CitiPower’s, Powercor’s and United Energy’s energy transformation strategy and the design and implementation of innovative and cost-effective solutions for the electrification of Victoria.
Renate has a Bachelor Commerce (degree with honours) and Bachelor of Arts degree from Melbourne University and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Directors.
Speaking at
11:20
Meeting government and community expectations for both network and community resilience and how we can better prepare, adapt and respond to climate extremes
Danielle Beinart
Executive General Manager – Networks & TechnicalAustralian Energy Market Commission (AEMC)
Danielle is an experienced leader with more than 20 years of experience working in the energy sector. During this time Danielle has worked in a broad range of functions and leadership roles, with experience in policy, regulation, commercial, strategy and consulting roles.
Danielle joined the AEMC in 2021 and is currently an Executive General Manager leading the Networks & Technical function. This function includes the policy team responsible for rule changes and reviews relating to transmission and distribution network regulation reform for the transition to net zero by 2050.
Danielle has a Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Biology) from the University of Technology, Sydney. She also holds a Master of Business Administration (Executive) from the Australian Graduate School of Management.
Speaking at
11:50
Recommending the pricing reforms necessary to deliver for the needs of future consumers
Richard Wrightson
Chief ExecutiveDelta Electricity
Richard Wrightson was appointed as the Chief Executive of the Delta group of companies, including Delta Electricity and Delta Coal in August 2023. Richard has also taken up a position as a Director of each of the Delta group companies.
Prior to Delta Richard was the General Manager Strategy at Lochard Energy. Richard has over 30 years of operational and trading experience in the energy sector including with AGL Energy, as Executive General Manager of Wholesale Markets. Richard has experience across all forms of electricity generation, including distributed energy resources, running AGL’s virtual power station project and extending to experience with nuclear power stations while employed by Nuclear Electric in the United Kingdom.
Richard served on the AEMC Reliability Panel for five years as the Market Customer Representative. The Reliability Panel is made up of senior leaders from the energy sector and sets guidelines for the operation of the national electricity system, being responsible for the monitoring, reviewing and reporting on the safety, security and reliability of the national electricity system.
Richard is an experienced senior executive with deep experience in the generation, supply and retailing of electricity and gas in Australia. Richard is a passionate advocate for the energy industry and the important role it plays in the Australian economy.
Speaking at
12:30
Panel discussion: What are the pathways, timelines and replacement strategies for the exit of coal?
Jonathan Prendergast
Technical DirectorBusiness Renewables Centre Australia (BRC-A)
Jonathan is a clean energy project and procurement advisor and manager, with 12 years’ experience in development of innovative projects and contract structures.
Jonathan has achieved several Australian first innovative energy projects, including development of Australia’s first District Heating system, District Cooling Customer agreement and offsite solar PPA. Jonathan has worked on many corporate renewable energy PPAs over the last 5 years performing advisory, procurement management and energy market analyst roles.
Speaking at
12:30
Panel discussion: What are the pathways, timelines and replacement strategies for the exit of coal?
Tennant Reed
Director – Climate Change and EnergyAustralian Industry Group (Ai Group)
Tennant Reed is Director - Climate Change and Energy at the Australian Industry Group. Since 2008 he has been deeply involved in Australian climate and energy issues: advising Ai Group’s Leaders’ Group on Energy and Climate Policy; coordinating joint research and advocacy with wider energy stakeholders; facilitating the Australian Climate Roundtable; developing reports on energy prices, carbon border adjustments and business energy use; and closely observing international climate negotiations. In 2021 he was appointed to the Independent Expert Panel recommending 2035 emissions targets for the State of Victoria. Tennant lives in Melbourne.
Speaking at
12:30
Panel discussion: What are the pathways, timelines and replacement strategies for the exit of coal?
Andrew Richards
Chief Executive OfficerEnergy Users Association of Australia (EUAA)
Andrew has over 30 years of energy industry and infrastructure development experience having held a variety of senior management roles in the areas of sales and marketing, public and stakeholder relations, media and communications, strategic planning, policy development, stakeholder engagement and political advocacy.
For the last 6 years Andrew has been Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Users Association of Australia (EUAA). The EUAA is the peak national body representing Australian commercial and industrial electricity and gas users. EUAA membership covers a broad cross-section of the Australian economy including significant retail, manufacturing, mining, materials and food processing industries.
Under his leadership the EUAA has positioned itself as a highly respected thought leader and advisor to energy industry players, regulators and governments and is recognised by these stakeholders as a strong advocate for energy users.
Andrew continues to play a key role in a range of energy market reform processes being undertaken by AEMO, AEMC and the ESB where he has recently joined the Post 2025 Market Design Advisory Group. Andrew is also involved in the Federal Government Energy Industry Roundtable, ACCC Infrastructure Consultative Committee and a number of State Government key stakeholder roundtables.
Andrew is a strong advocate for cross industry collaboration and is involved with numerous energy industry customer councils and advisory groups. Andrew has also been central to the formation of The Energy Charter, an industry led collaboration designed to improve energy user outcomes. Andrew is a member of the Independent Accountability Panel that reports annually on industry progress towards this objective.
Speaking at
12:30
Panel discussion: What are the pathways, timelines and replacement strategies for the exit of coal?
Rachelle Cooper Kulkarni
Head of Impact and InnovationIndigenous Energy Australia
Rachelle is a change-maker, environmentalist, and futurist. She is the Head of Impact and Innovation at Indigenous Energy Australia (IEA) and Director of Sustainify. Rachelle is a strategic and resourceful problem-solver who uses systems thinking and strategic foresight to create solutions to Australia’s wicked problems, particularly a just energy transition for regional communities.
As Head of Impact and Innovation, Rachelle is always looking for ways to deliver better outcomes for community. This includes hearing challenges on the ground and translating them into innovative projects and service offerings. She also oversees IEA’s impact framework and advises industry on measuring their success at the project level and capability to deliver meaningful impact at an organisational level. She also leads the Queensland business for IEA.
Rachelle has gained a unique understanding of the requirements and perspectives in the energy transition with a career in government and private sector roles across the world. Rachelle has a Masters in Sustainability and Adaptation and is a certified change management, P3M3, and Project, Program and Portfolio management professional.
Speaking at
12:30
Panel discussion: What are the pathways, timelines and replacement strategies for the exit of coal?
Gerard Reilly
General Manager of Customer, Communications and EngagementPowerlink Queensland
Gerard has more than 20 years’ experience in strategic communications, community engagement, media relations, government and investor relations.
At Powerlink, his role is to lead delivery of the communications and external engagement functions in order to enhance Powerlink’s reputation and strengthen relationships with customer, community and stakeholder representatives.
He leads Powerlink’s management of reputational risks and opportunities as part of the state’s power system transformation. He oversees Powerlink’s stakeholder and community engagement approach for Renewable Energy Zones and key projects as part of the Queensland Energy & Jobs Plan.
Previously he worked in the Office of the Premier, developing a wide range of media and communications activities across Ministerial offices. He was also a Director for BBS Communications Group, one of Australia’s leading strategic communications consultancies.
Gerard is regarded as a leading expert in community and stakeholder engagement having worked on large infrastructure projects and delivering training programs across the country as a qualified IAP2 trainer.
Speaking at
14:00
Maintaining social licence when the impacts of the transition are received as outweighing any benefits
Gavin Dufty
National Director, Energy policy and ResearchNational Council St. Vincent Paul Society Australia
Gavin was recently appointed National Director Energy Policy and Research of St Vincent de Paul Society Australia, but has worked in the social services community welfare sector for over 30 years, undertaking social research, policy evaluation and advocacy with a specific focus on essential gas, water and electricity services.
Gavin is also a consumer representative of a number of industry and government committees including: Yarra Valley Water community advisory group; Victorian, NSW electricity and gas distribution company consultative committees; and a member of the AER and ESC customer consultative groups. He is also a Board member of Energy Consumers Australia and a previous member of the AEMC reliability panel and AEMO’s ISP consumer panel.
Speaking at
14:30
Enabling customer-led tariffs for a smarter energy future
15:00
Panel discussion: Who is being left behind in the transition and how can they be meaningfully included?
Sabiene Heindl
Chief Executive OfficerEnergy Charter
Sabiene Heindl is the CEO of the Energy Charter, a pioneering coalition of energy organizations united by a shared passion for putting customers and communities at the heart of the energy transition. With a proven track record of driving transformational change, Sabiene brings a wealth of experience from senior leadership roles in energy, telecommunications, media and legal sectors.
Previously serving in the CEO Office at Energy Consumers Australia, Sabiene has consistently championed innovative, human-centred solutions. Her academic credentials include an Executive MBA from Brown University (USA) and IE Business School (Spain), a BA in Laws (First Class Honours), and a BA in International Business.
With a strong background as a corporate lawyer and a deep commitment to people-driven outcomes, Sabiene is passionate about shaping the future of energy through purpose-driven leadership and inspiring decision-making that creates meaningful impact for all.
Speaking at
14:30
Enabling customer-led tariffs for a smarter energy future
Catherine Wolthuizen
Ombudsman and Chief ExecutiveEnergy and Water Ombudsman (Victoria) (EWOV)
Catherine has experience in leadership positions across utilities, financial services and professional services.
Prior to joining EWOV, Catherine was the Customer Advocate at National Australia Bank, advising to Board and Executive on customer outcomes. She has a track record of leadership in Australia and the UK, with a particular focus on dispute resolution and fair outcomes in regulated markets. Catherine held the position of Ombudsman at the UK Financial Ombudsman Service for seven years and led that organisation’s systemic issues and external engagement function. She has also held positions as Board Director of the Australian Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, Panel Member at the Australian Financial Services Ombudsman, Chair of the Consumer Policy Research Centre, Chair of the Economic Abuse Reference Group and is a current Board Director of the Victorian Legal Services Board and member of the ASIC Consultative Panel.
Speaking at
15:00
Panel discussion: Who is being left behind in the transition and how can they be meaningfully included?
Gerard Brody
ChairVic Essential Services Commission
Gerard was appointed commissioner and chairperson in August 2024.
A leading consumer rights lawyer, Gerard has deep consumer policy, regulatory and legal experience, and a longstanding passion for improving the consumer experience.
Gerard is a former CEO of the Consumer Action Law Centre, an independent, not-for-profit consumer organisation.
Prior to taking up this role, Gerard served as Chair of both Community Legal Centres Australia and the Consumers’ Federation of Australia and has also served as a director for the Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria, the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman and the Australian Financial Complaints Authority.
Gerard holds degrees in Arts, Law and Public Policy from the University of Melbourne and is a Graduate of the AICD Company Directors Course.
Speaking at
15:00
Panel discussion: Who is being left behind in the transition and how can they be meaningfully included?
Advisory Board
Partner
McKinsey & Company
HoustonKemp
Jemena
Monash University
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Tarandeep Singh Ahuja
Partner
McKinsey & Company
Tarandeep Singh Ahuja co-leads McKinsey & Company's Energy Practice in Australia and New Zealand and leads the Product Development and Procurement Practice across the Asia Pacific region. He is a Partner based in McKinsey’s Melbourne office.
Tarandeep is passionate about helping industry lead the way on the energy transition. He works with leading public and private sector organisations across the energy value chain on a variety of topics including strategy, growth, M&A, transformation, digitisation, and decarbonisation.
Tarandeep has served as a knowledge advisor to Australian Energy Week and for the last half decade, hosted multiple panels on the annual event’s main stage.
Adrian Kemp
PartnerHoustonKemp
Adrian’s expertise derives from his depth of understanding and experience in the energy, water and transport industries, exceptional analytical skills, and his enthusiasm for developing innovative and practicable solutions to complex problems. At the forefront of his profession, Adrian regularly advises governments, regulatory agencies and businesses on high stakes matters that are often the focus of public attention.
Highlights from Adrian’s twenty year career include the development of innovative metrics to monitor road safety, speed performance and reliability using GPS-probe data to inform road infrastructure planning and investment decision making. Adrian also led the development of an innovative regulatory framework governing the pricing of services provided at the Port of Melbourne.
Adrian has shaped significant reforms to pricing in the electricity sector and to the regulatory arrangements applying to the water, energy and road infrastructure sectors. Adrian is often at the forefront of structural and regulatory reform processes, and in charting market developments in the infrastructure sector. Often, he is leading the way in rethinking how emerging disruptive technologies can be harnessed to improve the performance of critical industry sectors.
Most recently, Adrian has spearheaded the proof of concept for a blockchain-based information sharing platform for the Australian criminal intelligence sector – set to revolutionise how organisations share, control and collaborate through the use of sensitive information.
Suzie Jakobovits
GM Renewable GasJemena
Suzie is the General Manager of Renewable Gas at Jemena. She is responsible for leading and delivering Jemena’s Renewable Gas Strategy and driving the establishment and growth of a renewable gas market to provide an alternative decarbonisation pathway for consumers.
Suzie has spent the last 25 years working across the energy sector, with in depth experience in strategy, sustainability and renewables. She holds a double degree in Commerce (Finance) and Science (Mathematics) from the University of Melbourne.
Suzie is an experienced strategic planning specialist and operational manager, highly regarded for her passionate and collaborative approach to driving effective and impactful change.
David J Hill
Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Systems EngineeringMonash University
David Hill is Professor of Electrical Power and Energy Systems at Monash University,
Melbourne, Australia and Professor Emeritus at The University of Sydney. He has had an academic career based at universities in Australia as well as the USA, Sweden and Hong Kong, where his research has focussed on power systems modelling, planning, dynamics and control as well as in related general systems and control engineering areas. He is currently focussed on future power and energy systems bringing science to address the systems questions that the clean energy transition demands answers to such as the optimal energy mix, future grid architectures, the balance between CERs and REZs, how to achieve stability, reliability and resilience and the right balance between system control and markets when dealing with new issues like system strength and inertia. He consults internationally on energy issues and is also involved in international research groups related to future energy and grids.
He has been elected Fellow of The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, The Australian Academy of Science and related engineering academies in Sweden and Hong Kong. He has received numerous international awards for his research including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE, New York, USA) Power and Energy Society Prabha S. Kundur Award - one of only two Australians to ever receive this award given annually to recognise "outstanding contributions to the understanding and control of the dynamics of the power system". He also received the IEEE Hendrik W. Bode Lecture Prize of the IEEE Control Systems Society and presented the topic "Power System Dynamics and Control – Structure, data and learning".
Carly Irving Dolan
Executive DirectorProspecta Utilities
Carly Irving-Dolan is a renowned leader in the smart and renewable energy sectors, with a track record of delivering transformative solutions. As the Executive Director of Advisory at Prospecta Utilities, Carly brings decades of experience in strategic planning, customer experience, and innovation to help businesses navigate the energy transition. Her leadership is pivotal in developing tailored, sustainable solutions that drive efficiency and long-term success.
Previously, Carly held executive roles at NRMA, Energex, Energy Queensland, and Yurika, where she was instrumental in establishing NRMA’s first national electric fast-charging network. Her innovative approach to infrastructure projects, including the development of off-grid EV charging stations and battery-integrated chargers, has had a lasting impact on the energy sector.
Carly’s dedication to customer advocacy and her ability to foster strong stakeholder relationships have earned her a reputation as a forward-thinking leader. In addition to her role at Prospecta Utilities, Carly serves as a Non-Executive Director at Hydroverse and The Springfield Anglican College.
With a Master of Business Administration from Torrens University and an Executive Leadership Program from Mt Eliza Business School, Carly’s educational background complements her extensive industry experience, making her a driving force in Australia’s energy transformation.
Joel Gilmore
General Manager Regulation & Energy PolicyIberdrola
Dr Joel Gilmore is the General Manager Policy & Regional Energy at Iberdrola Australia, with over a decade of experience in market design, market modelling, and technical and economic analysis of integrating renewable energy into the grid. In addition to engaging on policy design, he coordinates the development of integrated solutions across large-scale renewables, transmission, green hydrogen, and new loads. He previously lead Iberdrola’s long-term market modelling team, supporting business cases for both renewable and firming assets and has previously worked in roels across consulting, government, and AEMO. Joel is also an Associate Professor at Griffith University Business School.
Alex Fraser
Senior Electrification Channel SpecialistEssential Energy
Alex Fraser is a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in the energy industry. Currently working as the Senior Electrification Channel Specialist at Essential Energy, Alex has successfully led innovative projects, including tariff trials for residential and small business customers.
With a strong background in policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and corporate strategy, Alex has managed critical issues such as energy pricing, infrastructure planning, sustainability, and innovation. Career highlights include leadership roles at the Energy Retailers Association of Australia and the Australian Energy Council, as well as senior advisory positions for government ministers and departments.
Alex’s expertise includes strategic thinking, energy planning, communications, and program delivery, making her a trusted leader in policy development and regulatory affairs.
Elizabeth Molyneux
Deputy Secretary, EnergyVic Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA)
Elizabeth Molyneux is the Deputy Secretary, Energy and commenced in the role in October 2022. With 25 years of experience in energy markets and policy reform, including as a senior executive at AGL Energy, Elizabeth has demonstrated significant expertise in energy wholesale and retail markets, network regulation, new energy technologies and consumer protection frameworks.
Elizabeth brings a strong focus on consumer outcomes in a dynamic period of change and transition in Victorian and national energy systems. With her background, Elizabeth is well placed to support the Victorian Government's leadership in energy policy and programs, new energy supply chain investments, regional economic development opportunities and the decarbonisation of gas, transport and industrial systems in Victoria.
Elizabeth also holds a Bachelor of Science and post graduate qualifications in Economics and Applied Finance and Investment.
Mark Paterson
PrincipalEnergy Catalyst
Mark Paterson is the Principal and Lead Systems Architect of Energy Catalyst, a specialist consulting practice focused on the key structural shifts required for legacy power systems to be capable of a secure and cost-efficient Net Zero Emissions future.
Working at the intersection of strategic vision and real-world application, Mark has led several national energy system transformation projects in Australia, including as Chair of the CSIRO Future Grid Forum and Program Director of the CSIRO/ENA Electricity Network Transformation Roadmap. At Horizon Power and Energex, he led the innovative development and scale deployment of several utility technology innovation firsts.
Mark is globally recognised as an expert in Power Systems Architecture disciplines which are critical to secure and cost-efficient grid transformation. He is a Fellow of the Pacific Energy Institute, an invited Associate of the US Department of Energy’s GridWise Architecture Council (GWAC) and a contributing author for the IEEE Power & Energy Society.
James Colbert
PartnerBaringa
James joined Baringa from KPMG where he was a partner focused on Energy & Utilities Strategy, Transformation and Technology Advisory. He has over 20 years’ experience spanning global corporates to start-ups. James brings deep experience in strategy, commercial and technology.
He has served as APAC Regional Director for global leader Schneider Electric and been at the forefront of the energy transition with technology and large generator/retailers. Prior to joining Baringa, James was with KPMG in management consulting where he advised and supported businesses across energy, mining and property on strategy and technology.
He sits on the Board of Race 2030 and is the former Chair of the International MicroGrid Association.
When he’s not working, or boring his family and friends with talk about how exciting the energy transition is, you'll find James on the tennis court. James is a keen tennis player and loves the fact that his city, Melbourne, hosts the Australian Open every January. You’ll also find him and his wife encouraging their two boys in various sporting and musical passions ranging from sailing and futsal, to fencing.
David Prins
DirectorEtrog Consulting
David Prins is an experienced and highly accomplished thought leader, strategic influencer and collaborator in the Australian energy market. He thrives on understanding how competition and regulation inter relate in energy markets, and helping his clients to navigate the often difficult environments in which they have to participate and engage, across the energy value chain.
David has extensive international consulting experience and expertise in strategic, regulatory and government policy and commercial issues in energy markets, particularly from a consumer perspective. His work currently focuses on the energy transition to net zero, reliability and resilience of the energy system, and energy affordability.
Changlong Wang
Research FellowMonash University
Dr. Changlong Wang is a Research Associate at Monash University, a Climate Future Fellow at the University of Melbourne, and an Academic Visitor at the University of Oxford. He is a key contributor to the Hydrogen and Green Steel Economic Fairways Mapper, a collaboration between Geoscience Australia and Monash University that won the 2023 Eureka Prize for Innovative Research in Sustainability and was a finalist for the 2024 Australian Financial Review’s Energy Award in Innovation.
Changlong represents Australia in several IEA Hydrogen TCP tasks and is co-leading a new task proposal, “Hydrogen for Iron/Steelmaking”, with international colleagues. He also led a study on the South Australian green iron supply chain with the Port of Rotterdam for the South Australian government. Additionally, Changlong serves as Deputy Lead for Work Package 6 of the “Strategic Electric Vehicle Integration (SEVI)” project under RACE for 2030 CRC, examining the impacts of EV charging on grid stability.
Changlong recently received the 2024 Monash Engineering Dean's Award for Research Excellence and the 2024 DCCEEW and CSIRO International Hydrogen Fellowship. Changlong is on the Australian Energy Week 2025 advisory board.
Matthew Gleeson
VP Energy Transition / Water ConservationOracle Energy and Water
Matt knows a bit about the changing landscape for utilities these days. For almost 3 decades he has been at the forefront of championing and supporting change within Oracle's clientele and partners; both in driving energy business transformation and in fostering new innovation. He’s been in the trenches seeing through the progress of deregulation across Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas, and has seen his fair share of energy business reinvention through improved workforce engagement, sustainable asset investment programs and investment in IT transformation. Matt often shares his experience and insights with customers and audiences across the Asia Pacific region on topics spanning diverse domains: ranging from grid performance to heightened customer engagement.
Matt's passions lies in:
- Fostering a forward-moving drive within utilities to initiate their journey towards a low-carbon energy future.
- Unleashing the true potential of AMI and grid data for energy enterprises, effecting meaningful change.
- Pioneering a novel energy B2C2B relationship that begets shared advantages, both financial and environmentally driven.
- Disrupting conventional power-planning paradigms by propounding alternatives like demand response and behavioral demand shifts.
- Forging a nexus among ESG, EV, and DER aspirations for the ever-evolving energy landscape.
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