Energy expert Saul Griffith discusses decarbonizing Australia through electrification, promoting optimism in climate action, limitations of hydrogen as an energy source, transitioning to renewable energy in the domestic economy, and community initiatives driving climate action.
Transitioning to renewable energy can save money, improve health, and reduce emissions in Australia.
An optimistic 'abundance agenda' promotes the benefits of renewable energy transition.
Hydrogen's limitations in efficiency and cost challenge its role in the energy transition.
Deep dives
Transitioning to Renewable Energy for Economic Benefits
Australia can lead the world in climate action by transitioning to renewable energy. Energy expert Saul Griffith outlines in his book 'The Big Switch' how this transition can save billions annually and create jobs. By electrifying homes, vehicles, and industries, Australia can reduce emissions, improve health, and boost the economy.
Embracing an Optimistic Abundance Agenda
Griffith advocates for an optimistic approach towards climate action, promoting an 'abundance agenda' that focuses on the benefits of transitioning to renewable energy. He emphasizes the potential for Australia to lead in this transition, showcasing the economic and environmental rewards that come with widespread electrification and decarbonization.
Challenges in Converting to Hydrogen as an Energy Source
Griffith discusses the limitations of hydrogen as an energy source, pointing out inefficiencies in its production and utilization compared to electrification. While acknowledging some role for hydrogen, he advises caution in overestimating its contribution to the energy transition due to cost and technical challenges.
Modernizing the Electricity Grid for Renewable Energy
Significant efforts are required to modernize Australia's electricity grid to support the shift towards renewables. While progress is being made at state and territory levels, regulatory reforms are needed to facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources and enable widespread electrification.
Transitioning Coal Communities for a Sustainable Future
Addressing concerns in coal communities, Griffith emphasizes the importance of a gradual and compassionate approach to transitioning away from coal. He advocates for job retraining, community engagement, and economic opportunities in renewable energy to ensure a just and sustainable transition.
This episode we bring you a conversation with energy expert Saul Griffith about his new book “The Big Switch” which looks at energy flows across the Australian economy and provides a blueprint for how Australia can decarbonize our society, improve our health AND save households thousands of dollars each year,
LANGUAGE WARNING: a guest drops the F-bomb once in this recording
This was recorded live as part of the Australia Institute's webinar series, on Thursday the 24th of February 2022 and things may have changed since recording.
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director at the Australia Institute // @ebony_bennett
Guests:
Saul Griffith, founder Rewiring Australia, author of The Big Switch // @GriffithSaul
Dan Cass, energy policy and regulatory lead, The Australia Institute // @danjcass