SALE is preparing to host the Gippsland New Energy Conference for a second year.
A “soft launch” of 2023’s event took place on Wednesday, July 12 outside The Wedge, which is again playing host to proceedings.
Representatives from the Gippsland Climate Change Network (GCCN), Wellington Shire Council, Latrobe City Council, Latrobe Valley Authority, Blue Float Energy, Flotation Energy, Corio Generation, Iberdrola and TAFE Gippsland were all in attendance for the launch.
GCCN chief executive and conference organiser, Darren McCubbin described the event as being “unique to Gippsland”.
“Over 40 organisations including business innovators, local and state government agencies, community leaders and education experts have shaped the four-day program and are sleeves rolled up ready to make this series of events an overwhelming success,” Mr McCubbin said.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye said the organisation was excited to be part of the Gippsland New Energy Conference in 2023.
“It is great to see the conference continuing to grow after a sold-out event in Wellington Shire last year,” Cr Bye said.
“Council continues to advocate for new energy transition, and we are working with government and industry to secure investment.
“I am looking forward to sharing in the event with the community and delegates from across the globe.”
The inaugural Gippsland New Energy Conference took place last August.
Billed as the first and only event of its kind in the region, the Conference brought together business leaders and government representatives to discuss renewable energy opportunities as industries transition away from coal and gas.
Among the guest speakers was Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, who addressed attendees via a pre-recorded video.
Organisers at the time said they “couldn’t be happier” with the event, which saw over 380 people attend across two days.
This year’s program will be twice that length, beginning on August 30 with a Gippsland Youth Energy Job Summit.
The Summit will see local students in Years 9 to 11 from across the region converge on the Sale Memorial Hall to learn about training and job opportunities within the renewable energy sector.
On August 31 and September 1, The Wedge will be hosting guest speakers, discussion panels and workshops regarding the energy industry, with a free Community Day capping off the event on September 2.
Over 500 people are expected to participate in-person and online, according to organisers, with over 70 speakers participating in 40 sessions covering culture, policy, investment and innovation.
For more information about the Gippsland New Energy Conference and to register for 2023’s event, head to the official website: gnec.com.au
