On Thursday 4 April, the SACC and its members were invited to the European Australian Business Council’s Ministerial Corporate Lunch and Industry Forum with the European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy, Kadri Simson and Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen at the Four Seasons Sydney.
Here is a summary of the forum by SACC Member and participant Michael Luxton, President Asia Pacific at Arjo.
Forum Purpose
Commissioner Kadri Simson, European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy and Hon. Chris Bowen (MP) Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy shared their vision for enhancing EU-Australia cooperation to overcome the critical challenges and capitalise on the significant opportunities of collaboration to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. Following the Ministers’ keynote speeches, an expert panel of leaders discussed Europe and Australia’s joint ambitions and capabilities for achieving energy and sustainable transition. The panel included:
- Brett Wickham, Managing Director, ACCIONA Energy Australia
- Professor Ross Garnaut AC, Director, ZEN Energy; Member, Net Zero Economy Agency Advisory Board
- Stephen Forshaw, Chief Representative, Airbus Australia, New Zealand and Pacific
- Martin Merrick, CEO, Volvo Group Australia
- Danny Nielsen, Senior Vice President and Country Head, Vestas Australia and New Zealand
- Daniel Westerman, CEO, Australian Energy Market Operator
Moderated by:
- Professor Emma Johnston AO, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), The University of Sydney
- John Lydon, Co-Chair, Climate Leaders Coalition
Background Briefing provided by EABC Summary – EABC Simson and Bowen – 4 APR 2024
The transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 is one of the greatest challenges Australia, Europe and the global economy face. The transformation required is unprecedented in scale and complexity, underpinned by the transition of energy systems.
For Australia, it is estimated that investments totalling $1.9 trillion will be required in the energy sector alone to reach net zero by 2050. For the European Union on the other hand, an estimated €1.5 trillion of investment will be needed every year to reach its mid-century target. Investment in the energy sector alone will be required to reach €396 billion per year to achieve its 2030 targets and €670 billion per year from 2030 to 2040
Attendees
Delegates included senior representatives of EABC members, and a diverse range of European and Australian stakeholders including European ambassadors, trade promotion agencies, chambers of commerce, industry associations and companies.
Main takeaways
- Australia & the European Union are in close alignment with each other in respect to the acceleration of decarbonisation across our collective economies and moving towards a more sustainable approach to both production and consumption.
- Minister Bowen acknowledged that the EU is already a significant investor (50-60%) in the Australian renewable energy sector. But he would be extremely happy to see this triple! And has an open door policy to any Global CEO visiting Australian willing to achieve this goal.
- Recognition we must continue to focus on energy security with its significant influence on a countries national security. This risk was highlighted with the EU member country’s requirement to rapidly transition from a significant reliance on Russian energy to alternative sources including renewables. In some respect, this requirement has led to an acceleration of the later.
- Energy security will be underpinned by the transition to lower cost renewables as compared to coal.
- Australia will continue to accelerate the transition to renewables given the high cost of maintaining the current coal fired power stations and impending closures – already locked in.
- There was a strong link to the current FTA being negotiated between Australia & the EU. Particularly with respect to the need to “increase coordination on standards and regulations that will facilitate cooperation in areas ripe for growth including renewable energy, critical minerals, decarbonisation technologies, energy efficiency and circular economy solutions and green finance, to name a few.”
- Skills shortages will remain a significant challenge for Australia. Minister Bowen indicated, as an example, Australia has a shortage of 30,000 plus electricians required to support our renewable energy targets by 2030.
- The FTA will also assist the skills shortage with a more efficient visa process & recognition of professional qualifications allowing people to move in and out of Australia more easily.
- Consideration must be given to the circular economy, both with respect to full life cycle management of goods embedded with renewables e.g. EVs, but also the environmental impact in establishing renewable energy sources e.g. wind turbines. A good example was given of the reduced land clearing impact on modified trucks transporting and setting up wind turbines. And also the recycling of the wind turbines themselves into shoes?!
Comments from Industry Panel & Questions from the audience
Brett Wickham, CEO Acciona AU: Program currently in place for 300 female graduates to facilitate increased diversity in a male dominated industry.
Stephen Forshaw, CEO Airbus ANZ/Pacific: Local investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuels including a $300M investment in Jet Zero (using agricultural bi-products). Australia will require 10 Billion L of fuel annually by 2030. Investment in renewable powered planes will be much slower but is certainly in the pipeline for the next generation of planes.
Danny Nielsen, SVP Vestas ANZ: Significant investment in QLD manufacturing Wind turbine manufacturing plant.
Siemens Representative: Remarked the importance of always considering the circular economy – and not wanting to create a ‘cane toad’ effect, where the solution can be worse (for the environment) than the initial problem.
Martin Merrick, CEO Volvo Group Australia: Highlighted the significant investment in AU onshore manufacturing, the use of hydrogen powered vehicles in the future in addition to the current commitment to battery powered EVs, and mentioned 85% of their trucks can be recycled.
Prof. Ross Garnaut, Director ZEN Energy: Emphasised push back on the notion that Australia should aim for on-shore manufacturing and focus on those processes etc. that can add value to the supply chain. For example, Australia has a comparative advantage in producing goods embodying energy (low cost/low emission) and will remain in demand from North Asia & Europe.
Concluding comments on joint ambitions and capabilities for achieving energy and sustainable transition:
Martin Merrick, CEO Volvo Group Australia: Seek out the facts about climate change – if we don’t invest in transition now the future impact and cost will be huge.
Danny Nielsen, SVP Vestas ANZ: Plan for the next generations they are the ones who will live with the impact.
Daniel Westerman, CEO, Australian Energy Market Operator: Focus on the objective and plan around it.
Prof. Ross Garnaut, Director ZEN Energy: Everything that is possible today was not possible before – the impossible is possible!
The SACC thanks Michael Luxton, President Asia Pacific at Arjo, for sharing event highlights and a special thank you goes to the EABC team for inviting us to take part in this insightful and well organised event!
EU-Australia Ministerial Lunch & Industry Forum – 4 April 2024, Sydney
On Thursday 4 April, the SACC and its members were invited to the European Australian Business Council’s Ministerial Corporate Lunch and Industry Forum with the European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy, Kadri Simson and Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen at the Four Seasons Sydney.
Here is a summary of the forum by SACC Member and participant Michael Luxton, President Asia Pacific at Arjo.
Forum Purpose
Commissioner Kadri Simson, European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy and Hon. Chris Bowen (MP) Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy shared their vision for enhancing EU-Australia cooperation to overcome the critical challenges and capitalise on the significant opportunities of collaboration to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. Following the Ministers’ keynote speeches, an expert panel of leaders discussed Europe and Australia’s joint ambitions and capabilities for achieving energy and sustainable transition. The panel included:
Moderated by:
Background Briefing provided by EABC Summary – EABC Simson and Bowen – 4 APR 2024
The transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 is one of the greatest challenges Australia, Europe and the global economy face. The transformation required is unprecedented in scale and complexity, underpinned by the transition of energy systems.
For Australia, it is estimated that investments totalling $1.9 trillion will be required in the energy sector alone to reach net zero by 2050. For the European Union on the other hand, an estimated €1.5 trillion of investment will be needed every year to reach its mid-century target. Investment in the energy sector alone will be required to reach €396 billion per year to achieve its 2030 targets and €670 billion per year from 2030 to 2040
Attendees
Delegates included senior representatives of EABC members, and a diverse range of European and Australian stakeholders including European ambassadors, trade promotion agencies, chambers of commerce, industry associations and companies.
Main takeaways
Comments from Industry Panel & Questions from the audience
Brett Wickham, CEO Acciona AU: Program currently in place for 300 female graduates to facilitate increased diversity in a male dominated industry.
Stephen Forshaw, CEO Airbus ANZ/Pacific: Local investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuels including a $300M investment in Jet Zero (using agricultural bi-products). Australia will require 10 Billion L of fuel annually by 2030. Investment in renewable powered planes will be much slower but is certainly in the pipeline for the next generation of planes.
Danny Nielsen, SVP Vestas ANZ: Significant investment in QLD manufacturing Wind turbine manufacturing plant.
Siemens Representative: Remarked the importance of always considering the circular economy – and not wanting to create a ‘cane toad’ effect, where the solution can be worse (for the environment) than the initial problem.
Martin Merrick, CEO Volvo Group Australia: Highlighted the significant investment in AU onshore manufacturing, the use of hydrogen powered vehicles in the future in addition to the current commitment to battery powered EVs, and mentioned 85% of their trucks can be recycled.
Prof. Ross Garnaut, Director ZEN Energy: Emphasised push back on the notion that Australia should aim for on-shore manufacturing and focus on those processes etc. that can add value to the supply chain. For example, Australia has a comparative advantage in producing goods embodying energy (low cost/low emission) and will remain in demand from North Asia & Europe.
Concluding comments on joint ambitions and capabilities for achieving energy and sustainable transition:
Martin Merrick, CEO Volvo Group Australia: Seek out the facts about climate change – if we don’t invest in transition now the future impact and cost will be huge.
Danny Nielsen, SVP Vestas ANZ: Plan for the next generations they are the ones who will live with the impact.
Daniel Westerman, CEO, Australian Energy Market Operator: Focus on the objective and plan around it.
Prof. Ross Garnaut, Director ZEN Energy: Everything that is possible today was not possible before – the impossible is possible!
The SACC thanks Michael Luxton, President Asia Pacific at Arjo, for sharing event highlights and a special thank you goes to the EABC team for inviting us to take part in this insightful and well organised event!
Sweden Innovation Days 2024 – Watch the online event which took place 20-21 March
The focus of the online conference is to connect innovation actors from around the world and to foster partnerships with clear and actionable missions to create a more sustainable world. Sweden is a sustainability front runner and committed to contributing to the Global Goals.
Sweden Innovation Days is dedicated to fostering international collaboration, so whether you are a start-up, intermediary or corporate, working in the public sector, civil society, academia or a government agency, there will be key takeaways for everyone.
The event is organised by Vinnova – Sweden’s innovation agency, the Swedish Energy Agency – leading the transition to a sustainable energy system and Formas – a Swedish research council for sustainable development in collaboration with Swedish Incubators & Science Parks (SISP) and Business Sweden.
https://swedeninnovationdays.se/past-event/lets-innovate-for-resilience/
SACC Sydney After Work 22 May 2024
Join us for AW in Sydney!
This is an informal catch up with the opportunity to build connections and meet fellow members and friends from the Swedish-Australian business network.
Date: Wednesday 22 May 2024
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Venue: Inna Lounge at The Republic Hotel, Lv 1, 69-73 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
There are no costs attached to this event, but please register to give us an indication on numbers. Drinks and food at bar prices.
We are looking forward to seeing you there!
SACC Sydney
SACC Melbourne After Work 22 May 2024
Join us for AW in Melbourne!
This is an informal catch up with the opportunity to build connections and meet fellow members and friends from the Swedish-Australian business network.
Date: Wednesday 22 May 2024
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Venue: The Bank, 394 Collins St Melbourne, 3000 #1 Home – The Bank on Collins
There are no costs attached to this event, but please register to give us an indication on numbers. Drinks and food at bar prices.
We are looking forward to seeing you there!
SACC Melbourne Chapter
Virtual Event 8 April 1pm AEST – The ESG Quarter
Summary – Ambassador of Sweden to Australia’s visit to Perth on 26 March
On the occasion of the Ambassador of Sweden to Australia HE Pontus Melander’s visit to Perth on 26 March the SACC Perth WA Chapter organised company visits to Scania and Fortescue together with delegates from SACC and the Swedish Consulate followed by a Swedish inspired dinner at Moose Restaurant in Claremont.
Martin Melin, Head of Operations, Autonomous Mining Solutions at Scania presented good insights into their Electrification roadmap for sustainable transport system that by 2030 more than half of Scania’s new vehicle sales volume is expected to come from electrically powered vehicles. We learnt about Scania’s charging solutions as well as work around the safety of batteries used for their electric trucks was provided and the company visit was finished with a good tour around the facility where the delegates got a good overview of the electric trucks specific offering for the Australian market.
Following the Scania visit HE Pontus Melander Ambassador of Sweden to Australia and delegation visited Fortescue in Perth. During the visit, Fortescue representatives guided us through their Research and Development facility in Hazelmere where we learnt about their 240-tonne green hydrogen truck. The Fortescue green team have been designing zero emissions haul trucks. Fortescue is aiming to demonstrate that renewables can power the energy needs of Australia’s mining and resources sector, and they are continuing to develop a zero emissions locomotive to enable Fortescue to decarbonise their rail network by 2030.
The day concluded with a delightful Swedish dinner at the Moose Restaurant in Claremont.
Thank you to everyone involved in the organisation of a successful visit!
Martin Melin, Scania
Ross Lemmon, Fortescue
Lisa Jahrsten, Honorary Consul of Sweden and SACC Perth WA Chapter Board
Joseph Olsson, Sandvik and SACC Perth WA Chapter Board Chair
Pia Nilsson CWG Project Services and SACC Perth WA Chapter Board
Jonas Edner, Moose Café and Restaurant Claremont and SACC Perth WA Chapter Board
NEW CORPORATE MEMBER – Wallenius Wilhelmsen
Wallenius Wilhelmsen – Sustainable logistics for a world in motion
WW vessel, the Swedish Flagged M/V FIDELIO alongside at WW’s MIRRAT Terminal in Melbourne
Wallenius Wilhelmsen is the global leader in integrated vehicle transportation and logistics, supporting our customers across their supply chain, all the way from the factory to the end-consumer. Our ambition is to lead the way in transforming shipping and logistics. With 9,500+ employees and 81 nationalities working in 28 different countries, we aim to consistently be the customers’ preferred integrated logistics partner. Together, we are building resilient, connected, data-driven, decarbonized solutions fit for the future.
Benefiting from over 160 years of heritage and history (with more than 125 years of history in Australia), Wallenius Wilhelmsen includes several brands, Wallenius Wilhelmsen Ocean, Wallenius Wilhelmsen Solutions, EUKOR, ARC, Armacup and Keen, and today has operations in three key segments: Shipping services, Logistics services and Government services. Our head office is located in Oslo, Norway. The company was initially created in 1999 as a result of the merger between Sweden’s Wallenius Lines and Norway’s Wilhelmsen Lines which created Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics. In 2017 this became WalleniusWilhelmsen ASA and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. We provide a comprehensive land-based logistics network through eight terminals, 11 inland distribution networks and more than 66 service and processing centres located around the world. In addition, we work in-house at many manufacturers’ plants preparing vehicles for the end consumers. At sea, we have more than 125 vessels on 15 trade routes, serving six continents. The RoRo vessels in our fleet typically have a higher-than-average number of hoistable decks and a stronger ramp capacity than our rivals. This provides enhanced flexibility allowing us to carry multiplex cargo answering the needs of a variety of customers. By fleet size, we are the world’s largest operator of pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs).2023 was a very strong year for Wallenius Wilhelmsen. Capacity constraints in the car carrier markets have led to solid earnings for the shipping services segment and we have consistently renewed multi-year contracts at rates reflecting the current market. Contract renewals have focused on integrating offerings across ocean and land-based services, combined with decarbonization initiatives such as the use of biofuel. Furthermore, we have seen very solid growth and margin improvements in the logistics and government segments.
The Oceania inbound Trade is one of the key global trade lanes for WW. Historically this trade has relied on imports from the Americas and Europe, however as sourcing points continue to shift, North Asia, driven by the increase in exports from China, is fast emerging as a key sourcing region for our region. Here we see a growing number of European and American Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) shift their production to China, and most importantly we see China’s rise to now be the largest exporter of electric vehicles worldwide.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen is well positioned to satisfy the growing demand in this trade, offering integrated logistics solutions in both China and Australia, and shipping services through its group company ARMACUP.
Through our land-based and shipping services activities, Wallenius Wilhelmsen provides services to several major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) from Sweden, ranging from automobile manufacturers to mining and construction plant equipment manufacturers.
Contact details:
Matthew Jackson, Senior Manager, Mining, Construction and Break Bulk Oceania, Wallenius Wilhelmsen Ocean
matthew.jackson@walwil.com
www.walleniuswilhelmsen.com
Swedish garden designers win award for ’New Nordic Notes’ sustainable garden design in Melbourne March 2024
’New Nordic Notes’ show garden, created by design duo Annika Zetterman and Kajsa Björne, was awarded Silver Gilt at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show 2024, which attracts over 100,000 visitors every year. “The garden is a place for reflection, deeply rooted in the culture and nature of the Nordics, with details that keep surprising, which makes it a winner.”
The ’New Nordic Notes’ garden was highlighted on various YouTube and podcast channels and broadcasted on Better Homes and Gardens (Channel 7), Garden Gurus (Channel 9) and Gardening Australia.
”- New Nordic Notes show garden is a celebration and inspiration of the Nordics. The garden was created to encourage generations to look at their past with pride and respect. A place which motivates you to storytelling and create meaningful design expressions, to stay curious about materials and to appreciate nature, despite living in Australia or the Nordic countries.”
There is a particular word in Swedish, “smultronställe”, which translates to a place in the wild where an abundance of wild strawberries grows. Smultronställe is referred to as a beautiful place you can escape to from everyday life, a place which gives you sentimental and personal value.
“- We decided at an early stage to create a garden as a place free from stress, a place to relax and reflect, not to be dictated where to stand or sit. As an anecdote to ‘smultronställe’ we added strawberries in the planting beds, a variety with red flowers, much appreciated by visitors.”
After the show, memories and photos are what remains of the garden. All materials have been reused and all plants have been returned to suppliers, with sustainability in mind.
More info, Instagram @newnordicnotes
Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show: https://melbflowershow.com.au/
Designer Profiles
Kajsa Björne
Kajsa holds a Master of Science in Landscape Architecture, with international experience, having worked and studied in Sweden, England, Japan and Australia. Kajsa was the lead designer for the award-winning Ian Potters Children’s Wild Play Garden in Centennial Park, in Sydney. She resides in Central Coast, NSW.
Annika Zetterman
Annika is a leading garden designer in Sweden, where she runs her design practice in Stockholm with projects in the Nordics and beyond. She is the author of the bestselling book ‘New Nordic Gardens’ and lectures on the subject both in Sweden and abroad.
https://thamesandhudson.com.au/product/new-nordic-gardens-scandinavian-landscape-design/
https://www.booktopia.com.au/new-nordic-gardens-annika-zetterman/book/9780500296141.html
Photography by Allie Aszodi
SACC Perth WA – Special Swedish Dinner at Moose Claremont 26 March
Join us for this special Swedish dinner in Perth on 26 March!
On the occasion of a special visit to Perth next week the SACC Perth WA Chapter invite you to a Swedish dinner at the Moose Cafe + Restaurant in Claremont.
When: Tuesday 26 March at 6.00 – 10.00 pm
Where: Moose Cafe + Restaurant, 40R Bay View Terrace, Claremont WA 6010
Tickets: $65 per person, tickets include a 3-course dinner, view the menu here. Drinks available for purchase – venue is licensed (drinks are not included in the ticket). We have limited spots so please make sure you book your tickets today!
We are looking forward to seeing you there!
SACC Perth WA Chapter
EU-Australia Ministerial Lunch & Industry Forum – 4 April 2023, Sydney
The Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the European Australian Business Council, is delighted to invite you to this EU-Australia Ministerial Corporate Lunch and Industry Forum with the European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy, Kadri Simson and Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen.
When: Thursday 4 April, commencing at 12.00 for lunch and the industry roundtable concluding at 4.00 pm
Where: The Four Seasons Hotel, 199 George Street, Sydney
Find out more about the event participation options and register here: https://eur.cvent.me/g03GN
Please mention that you are a member or guest of the Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce in the “additional notes” section of the registration process.
Keynote Speakers:
Commissioner Kadri Simson European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy
The Hon Chris Bowen MP Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy
Following the Ministers’ keynote speeches over lunch an expert panel of leaders will discuss Europe and Australia’s joint ambitions and capabilities for achieving energy and sustainable transition, including:
Professor Mary O’Kane AC, incoming Chair of the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and former Chief Scientist & Engineer of NSW
Brett Wickham, Managing Director, ACCIONA Energy Australia
Professor Ross Garnaut AC, Director, ZEN Energy; Member, Net Zero Economy Agency Advisory Board
Martin Merrick, CEO, Volvo Group Australia
Stephen Forshaw, Chief Representative, Airbus Australia, New Zealand and Pacific
SUMMARY
The transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 is one of Australia, Europe and the global economy’s greatest challenges. The transformation required is unprecedented in scale and complexity, underpinned by the transition of energy systems.
For Australia, it is estimated that investments totalling $1.9 trillion will be required in the energy sector alone to reach net-zero by 2050. For the European Union on the other hand, an estimated €1.5 trillion of investment will be needed every year to reach its mid-century target. Investment in the energy sector alone will be required to reach €396 billion per year to achieve its 2030 targets and €670 billion per year from 2030 to 2040.
We hope that you can join us for this unique opportunity to hear from European and Australian counterparts Kadri Simson and Chris Bowen on their vision for enhancing EU-Australia cooperation to overcome the critical challenges and seize the enormous collaboration opportunities to achieve net-zero.
Participants at the event will include senior representatives of EABC members, and a diverse range of European and Australian stakeholders including European ambassadors, trade promotion agencies, chambers of commerce, industry associations and companies.
For any enquiries please contact us at sacc@swedishchamber.com.au or events@eabc.com.au.
SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES
Commissioner Kadri Simson European Commissioner (Minister) for Energy
Appointed in 2019, Kadri Simson has been the EU’s Energy Commissioner during a period of extraordinary crisis and transition. She is a key leader in the delivery of the von der Leyen Commission’s flagship policy framework, the European Green Deal, and the EU’s response to the unprecedented challenges to Europe’s energy security following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its weaponisation of gas supplies. Before being appointed as Energy Commissioner she served as Estonia’s Minister for Economic Affairs and Infrastructure from 2016. She is a member of the Estonian Centre Party. From 2007 to 2016, she was a member of Estonia’s Parliament. From 2009 to 2016, she served as chairman of the Estonian Centre Party, and from 2007 to 2009, the deputy chairman of the National Defence Committee. In 2013, she was elected to the Pärnu City Council and in 2009, she was elected as a member of Tallinn City Council. From 2003 to 2007, she was secretary-general of the Estonian Centre Party. In 2003, she served as a research assistant at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. From 2001 to 2002, she was the Advisor to the Mayor of Tallinn and in 1999, the Advisor of Tallinn City Council. She is a graduate of Tartu Secondary School No. 10. She acquired a degree in History at the University of Tartu and a Master’s degree in Political Science from University College London.
The Hon Chris Bowen MP Australian Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy
Chris Bowen is a senior Cabinet Member in Australian Government, currently serving as Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy. Elected in May 2022 with a mandate to deliver its ambitious climate plan, the Federal Government has moved swiftly, with the strong backing of Australian business and industry, to define Australia’s pathway to net zero by 2050. One of its first measures, Climate Change Act, entered into force on 14 September 2022. The Act legislates economy-wide targets of reducing net GHG emissions to 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, reducing net GHG emissions to zero by 2050, and embeds the Paris Agreement into existing federal legislation. Chris Bowen entered Parliament in 2004 and has held a wide range of portfolios including serving as Treasurer, Minister for Human Services, Minister for Immigration, Minister for Financial Services, Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Competition Policy, Minister for Small Business and Minister for Tertiary Education. Chris has been responsible for a range of significant policy reform programs in these portfolios. He served as Interim Leader of the Labor Party and Acting Leader of the Opposition following the 2013 Federal election and served as Shadow Treasurer.
Professor Mary O’Kane AC, Director and incoming Chair of the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)
One of Australia’s most eminent scientists and engineers, with deep public policy and governance experience, Professor Mary O’Kane AC will become Chair of the AEMO on 2 April 2024. In the energy sphere, Professor O’Kane has served as Chair of the Board of the Australian Centre for Renewable Energy; a Member of the Independent Review into the Future Security of the National Electricity Market; Chair of the NSW Energy Security Taskforce; and Chair of Aurora Energy. Professor O’Kane was the inaugural Chief Scientist & Engineer of New South Wales, is the current Chair of the Independent Planning Commission of NSW and Sydney Health Partners, along with directorships at AEMO Services, Silver Chain Group and Sydney Water.
Brett Wickham, Managing Director, ACCIONA Energía
EABC Board Member Brett Wickham serves as Managing Director of EABC Major Partner ACCIONA Energía. ACCIONA Energía is the largest 100% clean energy company in the world, with no fossil fuel legacy since its establishment. It has 11GW of renewable energy in 16 countries and is on track to double its current renewable energy generation capacity to reach 20 GW. ACCIONA Energía has a strong development pipeline of over 3, GW of wind and solar projects to support Australia’s transition to a low-carbon energy supply over the coming years, including its MacIntyre windfarm precinct, which is already the largest wind project in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. The Spanish energy and construction giant plans to massively expand its investment in Australian renewable projects over the next five years, targeting 6 GW with an of $26 billion.
Professor Ross Garnaut AC, Director, ZEN Energy and Member, Net Zero Economy Agency Advisory Board
Ross Garnaut AC is one of Australia’s leading economists and public policy thinkers, currently serving on the Advisory Board of the Government’s new Net Zero Economy Agency and as a Director of EABC Corporate Partner Zen Energy, the Superpower Institute and as Chair of Renergi. He has been a key adviser to Australian Governments for many decades including as Principal Economic Adviser to Prime Minister Bob Hawke and Australian Ambassador to China. He has led many high-level government reviews, including the renowned 2008 Garnaut Climate Change Review. He is the author of bestselling books on climate and energy policy including Superpower: Australia’s Low-Carbon Opportunity and The Superpower Transformation.
Martin Merrick, CEO, Volvo Group Australia
EABC Board Member Martin Merrick serves as CEO of EABC Major Partner Volvo Group Australia. Swedish multinational Volvo Group is one of the world’s leading transportation, mobility and construction equipment providers and a leader in decarbonisation of the transport sector. Volvo Group’s target is to have 35% fully electric sales by 2030 and to be net-zero in its value chain by 2040. In Australia, the group is a pioneer in the manufacturing, distribution and operation of low emissions battery electric powered trucks and buses, having established its presence in Australia in 1972. Volvo was the first manufacturer to successfully trial and launch a heavy-duty electric truck range in Australia and will be the first to build them here when production commences in 2027.
Stephen Forshaw, Chief Representative, Airbus Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific
EABC Board Member Stephen Forshaw serves as CEO of EABC Major Partner Airbus Australia Pacific. As the largest aeronautics and space company in Europe and a worldwide leader, Airbus is committed to leading the decarbonisation of the aerospace sector. This includes reducing its industrial footprint (including by sourcing 100% renewable energy for its sites) and drastically reducing the CO2 emissions of its aircraft, helicopters, satellites and launch vehicles. Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) are the most significant tool airlines currently have to reduce their associated emissions, and as such, Airbus is increasing the use of SAF in its operations and investing heavily to create SAF markets in countries like Australia, including through the establishment of a joint US$200 fund with Qantas in 2022.