A new consumer group has been formed to support Australians in the transition to cleaner energy.
Formed by the Tech Council of Australia (TCA), the Consumer Energy Tech Alliance (CETA) aims to drive tech innovation and empower consumers.
TCA CEO Damian Kassabgi said the peak body representing Australia’s tech sector believed as the country’s energy market evolved more consumers were becoming energy producers.
Mr Kassabgi said it was hoped the CETA would support the widespread adoption of solar, battery storage, and smart technologies in the energy grid.
He said there were opportunities for increased renewable energy generation, greater reliability and lower energy prices.
“CETA is based on three key pillars. Placing consumers at the heart of the energy transition; lowering power prices and increasing system reliability; and ensuring a fair and competitive environment for Australia’s energy technology innovators.
“As renewable energy adoption grows, there needs to be stable, efficient, and affordable integration into the grid. CETA champions a balanced approach, combining innovation with system security so that Australia can realise the full potential of its consumer energy resources.”
TCA Board Director Scott Farquhar said CETA would help shape the future of consumer energy technology.
“CETA represents an opportunity for the next cohort of innovative companies to help drive an energy renaissance,” Mr Farquhar said.
“Innovative tech is the spark that will ensure Australia builds a flexible and reliable decentralised energy system – one that accelerates the energy transition and showcases amazing homegrown talent,”
Katherine McConnell, CEO of Brighte, a founding member of CETA, highlighted the need for robust regulatory frameworks and technical standards, which would support the long-term stability and sustainability of the energy sector.
“We’re committed to working with government and consumers to make sure technology plays a critical role in building a more efficient, inclusive energy system for all Australians,” Ms McConnell said.
“CETA provides a unified platform where energy technology companies have the opportunity to help shape energy policy and foster an ecosystem where big ideas and collaborations thrive.”
