Energy heavyweights, innovators, and key policymakers gathered to hear how the middle of the grid – the distribution poles, wires and substations – can help deliver a faster, fairer, and more affordable energy transition.
Ausgrid CEO Marc England told the crowd that it is with distribution networks that some of our biggest opportunities lie, unlocking new sources of energy, easing pressure on households, and making sure no one is left behind.
“The middle of the energy system has been overlooked for too long. The poles and wires that have served us for decades can now help power our energy future. Distributors are also ideally placed to ensure all Australians can benefit from solar, batteries and storage, not just those who can afford them.”
At the event, Ausgrid also launched its seventh annual FY25 Business and Sustainability Review.
The comprehensive report sets out Ausgrid’s ambitions and performance, aligning its work with the core purpose, vision, and strategic priorities necessary to deliver a faster, fairer, and more affordable energy transition for customers and communities.
Ausgrid Group Executive Market Development and strategy, Tim Jarratt, said the FY25 Review details significant progress across the network and community and reinforced Ausgrid’s role as an essential platform for a net-zero future.
“Our progress in FY25 shows that the distribution network is not just passively reacting to the energy transition; we are actively accelerating it.”
“Ausgrid’s broader contribution is seen through projects like the Hunter Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone and the Community Battery roll out, which is saving local customers approximately $200 a year via the Energy Storage as a Service program.”
“By investing in the middle of the grid, we are unlocking major benefits for our customers, from boosting renewable capacity to delivering real, measurable savings on their annual power bills.”