
First Fuel
By Energy Efficiency Council
Hosted by Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel, First Fuel brings you the latest perspectives on energy efficiency, energy management and demand response from Australia and around the world.

11: Renovating Europe with Adrian Joyce
First Fuel • By Energy Efficiency Council • Jul 09, 2020
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84: Planning for net zero with Kate Levick
If they don’t already have one, developing a net zero plan is high on the priority list for all Australian businesses. But as most now know, the real job isn’t developing a plan, but putting that plan to work.
In Episode 84 of First Fuel, EEC CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Kate Levick, co-head of the UK Transition Planning Taskforce Secretariat.
The Transition Plan Taskforce was formed when, in a speech at Glasgow’s COP26, Britain’s then-Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak announced that listed companies in the UK would be asked to disclose their transition plans by 2023.
Speaking one year on at COP27 in Egypt, Luke and Kate discuss the Taskforce’s role in defining what best practice business transitions look like; how companies across sectors can ensure the best chance of a successful transition; and what Australian government and businesses can learn from the UK experience so far.
Mentioned in this episode:
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures
The Transition Plan Taskforce Disclosure Framework
The Transition Plan Taskforce Implementation Guidance
TPT Online Sandbox
Key topics:
What is the UK’s Transition Plan Task Force?
What do we mean when we say a transition plan?
The link between financial disclosure and transition plans
Lessons for Australia and the rest of the world
Connect with our guests:
Find Kate at https://twitter.com/katellevick
Find the TPT at https://transitiontaskforce.net/
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
26:51
December 13, 2022

83: Energy Efficiency Summit 2022 – Heavy industry, lighter loads: competitiveness through efficiency
Episode 83: Heavy industry, lighter loads: competitiveness through efficiency panel from 2022 Energy Efficiency Summit
This week’s episode of First Fuel is a recording of our panel titled ‘Heavy industry, lighter loads: competitiveness through efficiency’ from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit.
In this panel, speakers Holly Taylor (Chair), Head of Projects, Energy Efficiency Council was joined by Jon Jutsen, CEO, RACE for 2030; Sharon Champness, Manager HR Safety and Environment, Molycop; andAlison Reeve, Energy and Climate Deputy Program Director, Grattan Institute.
The panel discusses the big energy productivity opportunities available in Australia’s industrial sector and the support, skills and policy settings we will need to unlock it.
You can watch a video version of this panel and all our panels from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit at eec.org.au/summit22
Key topics:
‘Easy wins’ for energy efficiency in industry
CRC’s work in decarbonising the industrial sector
Policy signals for incentivising investment
What an industrial energy efficiency strategy needs to have (and not have)
Jobs and skills needed for the energy transition
Connect with us
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
43:15
November 29, 2022

82: Energy Efficiency Summit 2022 – Batteries of the nation: zero emissions commercial buildings
This week’s episode of First Fuel is a recording of our panel titled ‘Batteries of the nation: zero emissions commercial buildings’ from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit.
In this panel, Francesca Muskovic, National Policy Director of Property Council of Australia, was joined by: Davina Rooney, CEO, Green Building Council of Australia; Carlos Flores, Director, NABERs; and David Palin, Sustainability Manager, Mirvac.
This expert panel considers what has been achieved on energy efficiency in Australia’s commercial building sector and how much more there is to do: driving decarbonisation outside the office sector, helping commercial buildings transition from gas to heat pumps, and making sure that commercial buildings are playing there part in a high penetration renewable grid.
You can watch a video version of this panel and all our panels from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit at eec.org.au/summit22
Key topics:
State of play for commercial building efficiency in Australia
The challenge of residual gas use in commercial buildings
Smart integration of all electric buildings into a renewable grid
The case for a national energy saving target
Connect with us
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
40:16
November 15, 2022

81: Energy Efficiency Summit 2022 – Efficient, electric and affordable: creating better homes
This week’s episode of First Fuel is a recording of our panel titled ‘Efficient, Electric and affordable: Creating better homes,’ from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit.
In this panel, Program Director of Climate and Energy at ACOSS, Kellie Caught, was joined by: Vanessa Davis, Researcher, Tagentyere Council; Margot Delafoulhouze, Systems Lead - Cities, Climateworks Centre; and Ben Milsom, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Plenti.
In a wide-ranging session, this expert panel discuss the huge positive impacts of energy efficiency and standardisation on residential homes, particularly on social and low income housing, and those in remote parts of Australia, where energy poverty can create literally life threatening circumstances.
You can watch a video version of this panel and all our panels from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit at eec.org.au/summit22
Key topics:
The opportunities and benefits of residential energy efficiency
Existing building stock and retrofits
Energy efficiency financing in residential sector
Looking to overseas for incentive inspiration
Energy efficiency disclosure for existing buildings
Connect with us
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
44:28
November 01, 2022

80: Energy Efficiency Summit 2022 – Leaders Panel
This episode of First Fuel is a recording of the Leaders Panel at the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit. Delivered in person from Sydney, and streamed to a national online audience, the Summit brought together government, global experts, prominent consumer advocates and our largest industry associations for a unique, economy-wide discussion on the role of energy efficiency in this moment and beyond.
In this panel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel was joined by: Edwina MacDonald, Acting CEO, ACOSS; Innes Willox, Chief Executive, Ai Group; Ken Morrison, Chief Executive, Property Council of Australia, Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister; and California Energy Commissioner Andrew McAllister.
You can watch a video version of this panel and all our panels from the 2022 National Energy Efficiency Summit at eec.org.au/summit22
Key topics:
Energy efficiency and its role in Australia’s net zero target
Supporting vulnerable households through the net zero transformation
Critical role of energy efficiency for business
Learning from California’s approach to the demand side
What’s left to be done – and some advice to the federal government
Connect with us
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us firstfuel@eec.org.au
45:10
October 18, 2022

79: California dreaming with Andrew McAllister
Recorded in front of an intimate live audience in Melbourne on the eve of the 2022 Energy Efficiency Summit, episode 79 features Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel in conversation with California Energy Commissioner Andrew McAllister.
This was Commissioner McAllister’s first visit to Australia in five years, and this fascinating and wide-ranging discussion range from what compelled Ronald Reagan to make energy efficiency central to California’s policy in the 1970s, through to why “the matching of supply and demand is the concept of our time.”
Mentioned in this episode:
California’s Warren-Alquist Act
Key topics:
California's integration of building code and appliance standards with generation permitting and demand forecasting.
Managing demand growth over time
The crucial importance of building standards
Load flexibility and management
Energy reliability during extreme weather
The importance of “quality” electrification
Connect with our guest:
Find the California Energy Commission at https://twitter.com/calenergyConnect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
41:38
October 10, 2022

78: Farm panel – Energy management in agriculture
In Episode 78 of First Fuel we bring you a panel discussion from the launch of the Energy Efficiency Council’s sector spotlight on energy management opportunities for Australian farms, released in partnership with the National Farmers Federation in late 2021.
Luke Menzel, CEO of the EEC is joined by Ash Salardini, Chief Economist at NFF, Edwina Beveridge, Blantyre Farms; Dean Cayley, Cayley Farms; and Karin Stark, the founder of the National Renewables in Agriculture Conference. This fantastic panel digs into how the leaders in the Aussie farm sector are approaching smart energy management.
Mentioned in this episode:
Navigating a dynamic energy landscape: A briefing for farms
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
27:23
September 20, 2022

77: Electrifying Europe with Thomas Nowak
In Episode 77 of First Fuel, EEC’s CEO Luke Menzel is joined by the Secretary General of the European Heat Pump Association, Thomas Nowak.
Even prior to the war in Ukraine, Europe was already warming up to heat pumps, but the need to get away from Russian gas has supercharged that effort. Today, the European Commission has a plan to double the rate of heat pump deployment, with Germany announcing a ‘heat pump offensive’, to take the annual install rate to half a million per year. As another example, the Netherlands - one of the most gas-reliant countries in the world - will ban fossil fuel heating from 2026, making heat pumps mandatory.
Needless to say, Thomas is at the forefront of this movement. In this episode, he and Luke discuss the pace of change in Europe, the opportunity to leverage this technology in Australian homes, commercial buildings and industry, and the need to educate the public about the transformative benefits of heat pumps for climate, health and hip-pocket.
Mentioned in this episode:
RePowerEU
First Fuel 69: 'An overnight success, a decade in the making' with Adrian Joyce
Key topics:
What is the European Heat Pump Association?
The gas crisis and the EU’s response
Heat pumps in residential buildings, commercial buildings and industry
The role of refrigerants in heat pumps, and effectively managing climate impacts
Connect with our guests:
Find Thomas at https://twitter.com/ThomasNowakEU
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
42:08
September 06, 2022

76: 'He waka eke noa... we’re all in this together' with Dr Megan Woods
In Episode 76 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by New Zealand’s Minister of Energy and Resources, Dr Megan Woods.
Luke and Minister Woods discuss New Zealand’s legislated climate targets, New Zealand’s proud history of action on energy efficiency, and two of the nation's flagship energy efficiency programs, the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry Fund (GIDI) and the Warmer Kiwi Homes program.
Mentioned in this episode:
Aotearoa New Zealand’s First Emissions Reduction Plan
Warmer Kiwi Homes programme
Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry Fund
Key topics:
New Zealand’s climate policy architecture
The use of sectoral targets in the net zero transformation
Why has energy efficiency has been so important to New Zealand policy-making
New Zealand’s investment to decarbonise industry
The Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, and its role in improving the lives of vulnerable households
Connect with our guests:
Find Minister Woods at https://twitter.com/Megan_Woods
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
44:44
August 23, 2022

75: Reinventing efficiency with Professor Nick Eyre
In Episode 75 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Professor Nick Eyre, Director at Oxford University's Centre for Research into Energy Demand Solutions (CREDS).
Luke and Nick discuss the impact of the European gas crisis on UK energy consumers and what can be done about it. They also dig into the UK Government’s Heat and Buildings Strategy, and Nick’s recent paper – co-authored with Jan Rosenow of RAP – Reinventing energy efficiency for net zero.
This episode was recorded at Oxford University on Thursday 7 July 2022.
Mentioned in this episode:
UK Heat and Buildings Strategy
Reinventing energy efficiency for net zero
Key topics:
Gas crisis impacts on UK consumers
Strategies for decarbonising heat in buildings
Heat pump targets and deployment in UK
Flexibility in the context of different renewable technology mixes
The evolving role of efficiency as we journey to net zero
Connect with our guests:
Find CREDS at https://twitter.com/@CREDS_UK
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
41:43
August 09, 2022

74: French dispatch with Dr Brian Motherway
In Episode 74 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Brian Motherway, Head of Energy Efficiency at International Energy Agency.
Recorded on 4 July 2022 at the International Energy Agency headquarters in Paris, Luke and Brian take stock of the current state of energy efficiency efforts around the globe. They consider the impact of the current global energy crisis, unpack the outcomes IEA’s 2022 Energy Efficiency Conference, and look at emerging trends in electrification, flexibility and industry.
Video updates:
This is the fourth in a series of episodes recorded during Luke’s recent trip to Europe.
To see the video updates produced during the trip visit
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEzC40kXieRYiEmpjjitdq7IMYkNyiBN
Mentioned in this episode:
First Fuel Episode 2: Energy efficiency and economic stimulus with Dr. Brian Motherway
Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector (IEA)
Key topics:
The global energy crisis and its impact on Europe
Key outcomes of the IEA's 2022 Energy Efficiency Conference 2022
Trends in electrification of buildings
Best practices on enabling demand side flexibility
Innovation in industrial management
Connect with our guests:
Find Brian at https://twitter.com/BrianRMotherway
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
32:37
August 02, 2022

73: ‘A heat pump offensive’ with Frankie Muskovic and Carlos Flores
In Episode 73 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is again joined by Francesca Muskovic, Director – National Policy at the Property Council of Australia, and Carlos Flores, Director of the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS).
In this, the second part of a bumper double episode of First Fuel, Luke, Frankie, and Carlos go deep on electrification of buildings, which emerged as a major theme of their recent delegation to Germany. They discuss the ways in which the war in Ukraine is driving a major policy push to get off Russian gas, the incentives, skills and supply chains that will help Germany meet its electrification targets, and what lessons Australia can learn as we seek to decarbonise our own building stock.
Video updates:
This is the third in a series of episodes recorded during Luke’s recent European trip. To see the video updates produced during the trip, visit https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEzC40kXieRYiEmpjjitdq7IMYkNyiBN
Key topics:
● The Russian-Ukraine conflict, and Europe’s accelerating path to electrification
● Overcoming the challenges of electrifying existing commercial buildings
● The critical role of trade skills and business models in enabling electrification
● Global manufacturing capacity and supply chains for heat pumps
Connect with our guests:
Connect with Frankie: https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Connect with Carlos: https://twitter.com/carlosfloreslen
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
48:39
July 26, 2022

72: Berlin correspondents with Frankie Muskovic and Carlos Flores
In Episode 72 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests: Francesca Muskovic, Director – National Policy at the Property Council of Australia, and Carlos Flores, Director of the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS).
This episode was recorded at the conclusion of a week long delegation to Germany on energy efficiency in buildings. Luke, Frankie, and Carlos discuss Germany’s granular climate targets, the role of the KfW Bank in financing energy efficiency, what Australia can learn from Europe when it comes to disclosure of building energy performance, and what we have to share.
Video updates:
This is the second in a series of episodes recorded during Luke’s recent European trip.
To see the video updates produced during the trip visit https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEzC40kXieRYiEmpjjitdq7IMYkNyiBN
Key topics:
Germany’s energy efficiency policy in buildings
- Germany approach to climate targets; granularity, ambition and accountability
- The role of the KfW Bank in financing residential energy performance improvements
- Lessons from Germany for Australia’s efforts on residential disclosure
- Energy efficiency in commercial buildings and what Australia has to share
Connect with our guests:
Connect with Frankie: https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Connect with Carlos: https://twitter.com/carlosfloreslen
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
46:57
July 18, 2022

71: 'Ecology and economy' with Dr. Nicholas Matten
In Episode 71 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Dr Nicholas Matten, Managing Director of EEC industry Member Stiebel Eltron.
During this episode – recorded at the Stiebel Eltron Energy Campus in Holzminden, Germany – Luke and Nicholas discuss the history of Germany’s heat pump market, the drivers for increasing heat pump demand, and what government and industry will need to do to unlock the full potential of electrification in Germany and around the world.
Video updates:
This is the first in a series of episodes recorded during Luke’s recent trip to Europe.
To see the video updates produced during the trip – including one from the Stiebel Eltron campus – visit https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEzC40kXieRYiEmpjjitdq7IMYkNyiBN
Key topics:
The history of Stiebel Eltron
Heat pump market dynamics
Electrification in Germany
Heat pumps in Europe and how Australia can follow suit
Connect with our guests:
Find Stiebel Eltron at https://twitter.com/stiebeleltron
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
26:05
July 12, 2022

70: 'Skilling up for net zero' with Scott Ferraro and Holly Taylor
In Episode 70 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests, EEC Head of Projects Holly Taylor and Program Director of the Net Zero Initiative at Monash University, Scott Ferraro.
In this episode, Luke, Holly and Scott discuss the launch of the EEC Professional Certifications Framework. They look back on the EEC’s engagement with training and certification over the last decade, the motivation for establishing the Framework, and how the EEC is partnering with government, industry and education providers to build professional pathways for energy management experts.
Mentioned in this episode:
EEC Professional Certifications
Race for 2030 E3 Opportunity Assessment: Developing the future energy workforce
Leveraging tax incentives to improve energy performance
Key topics:
· The skills needed for the net zero transformation
· The path to the Framework
· The purpose of the Framework
· Prioritisation of effort on skills and training
· Committing to diversity in the energy sector
Connect with our guests:
Find Holly at https://twitter.com/hollymtaylor_
Find Scott at https://twitter.com/scott_ferraro
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
38:58
June 27, 2022

69: 'An overnight success, a decade in the making' with Adrian Joyce
In Episode 69 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined live and in person at the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2022 by Adrian Joyce, Director of Renovate Europe.
Luke and Adrian unpack the goals, approach and achievements of Renovate Europe, a political communications campaign focused on raising the profile of building upgrades in the broader energy transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
Renovate Europe
RePowerEU (European Commission)
Key topics:
What is Renovate Europe
The crucial role of building upgrades in the energy transition
Creating an ‘authorising environment’ for policy and programs
The future of the campaign
Connect with our guests:
Find Adrian at https://twitter.com/adrian_joyce
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
34:21
June 14, 2022

68: 'A climate election' with Frankie Muskovic and Tennant Reed
In Episode 68 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined live at the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2022 with two guests: Francesca Muskovic, National Policy Manager for Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at the Property Council of Australia, and Tennant Reed, Head of Climate, Energy and Environment Policy at Australian Industry Group.
Luke, Frankie and Tennant chat about – what else – the results of the 2022 Federal election.
Mentioned in this episode
Frankie, Luke and Tennant's impending new podcast, Let Me Sum Up.
Key topics:
- Dissecting the 2022 result
- Implications for right of centre climate policy
- Revamping the safeguard mechanism
- Driving energy performance upgrades across the economy
Connect with our guests:
Find Frankie at https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Find Tennant at https://twitter.com/TennantReed
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
19:04
May 31, 2022

67: 'Imaginary friends' with Lynne Gallagher
In Episode 67 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined Lynne Gallagher, CEO of Energy Consumers Australia (ECA).
Luke and Lynne discuss the importance of centring consumer perspectives in the energy transition, how supporting consumers behind the meter can have big benefits on the supply side, and why ECA has stopped talking about DER.
Mentioned in this episode:
Death to DER? Why we need to change the language we use for the energy transition
Key topics:
- ECA’s mission
- The experience of the smaller energy consumers
- Approriately sizing the electricity network
- Supporting consumers to invest in energy efficiency
- The rise of Consumer Energy Resources
Connect with our guest: https://twitter.com/energyvoiceau
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
37:04
May 16, 2022

66: Untapped opportunity with Sagarika Subramanian
In Episode 66 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Sagarika Subramanian, Senior Research Analyst for the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) to discuss the 2022 International Energy Efficiency Scorecard.
Luke and Sagarika discuss the countries that topped this year’s rankings and what set them apart, Australia’s performance across buildings, industry and transport, and what the scorecard tells us about the untapped opportunity for energy efficiency around the world.
Mentioned in this episode:
- ACEEE’s 2022 International Energy Efficiency Scorecard
Key topics:
- About the Scorecard – drivers and methodology
- Global trends in energy efficiency performance
- Success factors for top performing countries
- Australia's performance in buildings, industry and transport
- Key lessons and opportunities for improvement
Connect with our guest:
linkedin.com/in/sagarika-subramanian-909935112
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
35:14
May 02, 2022

65: Sparking debate with Jorge Chapa and Taryn Cornell
In Episode 65 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Jorge Chapa, Head of Market Transformation, and Taryn Cornell, Senior Manager, Green Star Strategy & Development from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).
Luke, Jorge and Taryn discuss the GBCA’s new guide on constructing new all-electric buildings, the challenges associated with electrifying existing buildings and how they can be overcome, and role of electrification, hydrogen and offsets in decarbonising Australia’s built environment.
Mentioned in this episode:
A practical guide to electrification: for new buildings (Green Building Council of Australia)
Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector (International Energy Agency)
Key topics:
Decarbonisation pathways for buildings
Making new buildings all-electric
Challenges in electrifying existing buildings
Good ‘grid citizenship’ for commercial buildings
Role of hydrogen and offsets in building decarbonisation
Connect with our guests:
Find Jorge at https://twitter.com/jochapa
Find Taryn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/taryn-cornell-74289266/
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
40:46
April 19, 2022

64: 'Get your nerd on' with Jarrod Leak
In Episode 64 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Jarrod Leak, CEO at the Australian Alliance for Energy Productivity (A2EP).
Luke and Jarrod discuss A2EP’s new online resource – futureheat.info – which showcases tools, webinars and case studies on the use of heat pumps and thermal batteries to decarbonise process heat in industry.
Key topics:
- Strategic landscape for heat
- Process optimisation
- Thermal batteries
- Mechanical vapour recompression
- Decarbonisation pathways
Connect with our guest: twitter.com/DoMoreUseLess
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
32:19
March 28, 2022

63: 'A long term framework' with Zali Steggall MP
In Episode 63 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Zali Steggall MP, the Federal Member for Warringah and a prominent advocate for climate action. Luke and Zali discuss the importance of proactive effort on climate adaptation, how she would approach negotiations in a hung parliament, and her policies for transitioning buildings and industry to a net zero economy.
This is the fourth and final episode in a series of special episodes featuring key players from across the political spectrum ahead of the election expected in May 2022.
Mentioned in this episode:
5-step plan to Net Zero for Australia (Zali Steggall)
Leveraging tax incentives to improve energy performance (Energy Efficiency Council)
Key topics:
● Climate adaptation
● Potential priorities for independents in a hung parliament
● Sectoral emissions reduction policies versus the whole of economy carbon pricing
● Improving the energy and emissions performance of existing buildings
● Using the tax system to support small to medium manufacturers in the transition to net zero
Connect with our guest:
Find Zali at https://twitter.com/zalisteggall
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
34:25
March 08, 2022

62: 'Tackling the climate crisis' with Adam Bandt MP
In Episode 62 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Adam Bandt MP, Leader of The Greens in the Federal Parliament and spokesperson on the Climate Emergency, Energy, Employment and Workplace Relations.
Luke and Adam discuss the crucial role of energy efficiency and demand management in the climate transition, moving to an energy system that matches demand and supply, building the ecosystem of trades and professionals that can fix Aussie homes, and supporting manufacturers on the journey to net zero.
This is the third in a series of special episodes with key players from across the political spectrum leading up to the election expected in May 2022.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Green’s 2021 policy document Fight for the future
The Green’s 2022 Election Platform
Key topics:
- Building consensus around the climate transition
- Net zero commitments in business
- The role of energy efficiency in the climate transition
- Modernising the grid
- Improving residential energy performance
- Supporting manufacturers to cut emissions
Connect with our guest:
Find Adam at https://twitter.com/@AdamBandt
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
31:45
February 28, 2022

61: 'Building the industrial future' with Tim Wilson MP
In Episode 61 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by the Assistant Minister to the Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Tim Wilson MP. They discuss Tim's postgraduate study in energy and carbon management, how he thinks about climate and energy policy, and how to unlock the energy efficiency opportunities that exist in commercial buildings, homes and industry.
This is the second in a series of special episodes with key players from across the political spectrum in the lead up to the election expected in May 2022.
Mentioned in this episode:
Australia’s Long-Term Emissions Reduction Plan – Australian Government
Superpower: Australia's Low-Carbon Opportunity – Ross Garnaut
The New Map – Daniel Yergin
Key topics:
- Energy and climate literacy in public debate
- Opportunities to build on NABERS and commercial building disclosure
- Improving the energy performance of Aussie homes
- Partnering with industry sub-sectors to drive down emissions
Connect with our guests:
Find Tim at https://twitter.com/TimWilsonMP
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
38:35
February 14, 2022

60: ‘An economic focus’ with Chris Bowen MP
In Episode 60 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by the Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen MP. Luke and Chris discuss the climate and energy policies the Australian Labor Party is taking to this year’s Federal election.
This is the first in a series of special episodes with key players from across the political spectrum in the lead up to the election expected in May 2022.
Mentioned in this episode:
Powering Australia (ALP election policy)
Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector (IEA report)
Key topics:
- Australian energy and climate policy
- Business priorities on climate and energy
- Climate reporting and disclosure
- Australia’s safeguard mechanism
- Skills needs for a clean transition
Connect with our guests:
Find Chris at https://twitter.com/Bowenchris
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
37:53
February 07, 2022

59: 'A bolder ambition' with Dr Mary Stewart
In Episode 59 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Dr Mary Stewart, CEO of energy and climate advisory firm Energetics and President of the Energy Efficiency Council.
Luke and Mary discuss the key take outs from the Conference of Parties in Glasgow, the drivers for the avalanche of net zero commitments from Australian corporates, and the crucial role of energy management in the transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
First Fuel Episode 57: Urgency and action with Tim Goodson
Key topics:
- Outcomes of Glasgow Conference of Parties
- Role of ambition from the COP Presidency
- Drivers for net zero commitments for Australian corporates
- Translating emissions reduction ambition into action
- Strategic outlook of the Energy Efficiency Council
Connect with our guests:
Find Mary at https://twitter.com/Dr_Mary_Stewart
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
26:44
December 15, 2021

58: Energy panel – Navigating to net zero
In Episode 58 of First Fuel, we bring you a panel discussion from the launch of the fourth edition of the Energy Efficiency Council’s annual energy briefing for Australian businesses, Navigating a dynamic energy landscape.
Luke is joined by Wei Sue, System Lead for Sustainable Corporates at ClimateWorks Australia, Sally Townsend, Head of Sustainability at Blackmores Group and Holly Taylor, Head of Projects at the Energy Efficiency Council. They talk about how concerns around cost and carbon are driving business decision making around energy strategy, and how leading companies are translating net zero ambitions into action.
Mentioned in this episode:
Navigating a dynamic energy landscape: A briefing for Australian businesses (Energy Efficiency Council)
Corporate action for 1.5 degrees: Best practice for Australian company net zero commitments (ClimateWorks Australia)
Blackmores Sustainability Report 2021
Sustainability Advantage (NSW Government)
Key topics:
- Drivers for transformation in electricity and gas markets
- Business drivers for decarbonisation
- Best practices in operationalising net zero commitments
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
59:56
November 18, 2021

57: Urgency and action with Tim Goodson
In Episode 57 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Tim Goodson, an Energy Analyst at the International Energy Agency.
Luke and Tim discuss the IEA’s Net Zero by 2050 report, the importance of front-loading action on the pathway to net zero, and the role of renewables, electrification, energy efficiency and demand management in the transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector
Key topics:
- Importance of near term action and hitting milestones on the pathway to net zero
- Role of renewables, electrification, energy efficiency and demand management in net zero journey
- Phasing out technology to spur innovation
- Social license in the transition
Connect with our guests:
Find the International Energy Agency at https://twitter.com/IEA
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
34:25
November 03, 2021

56: Climate panel – The pathway to net zero
In Episode 56 of First Fuel, we bring you a panel discussion from the joint opening plenary of Energy Efficiency Expo and All-Energy Australia, which took place just twelve days before the twenty-sixth Conference of Parties in Glasgow.
Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by John Connor, CEO of the Carbon Market Institute, Zoe Whitton, Executive Director at Pollination, Gretta Stephens, Chief Executive for Climate Change at Bluescope, Anna Malos, Country lead for Australia at ClimateWorks Australia, and Darren Miller, CEO of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.
This stellar panel digs into the topic of the moment – Australia’s pathway to net zero.
Mentioned in this episode:
Energy Efficiency Expo
All-Energy Australia
Carbon Market Institute’s Australasian Emissions Reduction Summit
Investor Group on Climate Change’s annual investor survey
Bluescope’s net zero goal
ClimateWorks Australia’s Decarbonisation Futures report
Key topics:
- Net zero pathways by sector
- Investor approach to carbon risk
- Decarbonising steel
- Role of energy flexibility in net zero
- Hydrogen and electrification
- Supporting business planning for net zero
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
53:25
October 20, 2021

55: 'Getting all the fruit' with Mark Lister
In Episode 55 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Mark Lister, Chair of the Efficiency Valuation Organisation, the global body that drives best practice in the measurement and verification of energy savings.
In anticipation of the first World M&V Week, Luke and Mark discuss the history of measurement and verification, it’s crucial role in building confidence in the energy efficiency market, and how M&V practice is evolving over time.
Mentioned in this episode:
World M&V Week
Energy Efficiency Expo Virtual Conference
Key topics:
- Background of the Efficiency Valuation Organisation
- History and principles of the IPMVP
- M&V as market enabler
- Implications of digitalisation for M&V
- Role of M&V in delivering net zero
Connect with our guests:
Find the Efficiency Valuation Organisation at https://twitter.com/EVO_IPMVP
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
30:13
October 13, 2021

54: ‘Building science, not rocket science’ with Jenny Edwards and John Konstantakopoulous
In Episode 54 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests. Jenny Edwards is a Director of Light House Architecture and Science and one of Australia’s leading experts in building envelope testing. John Konstantakopoulos is Managing Director of Efficiency Matrix and a YouTuber specialising in educational videos focused on building performance.
Luke, Jenny and John interrogate common misconceptions around airtightness, insulation and ventilation, and discuss how we can optimise all these variables to deliver efficient, comfortable, healthy homes to Aussie families.
Coming up:
Further, Faster, Together: Opportunities for collaboration between Germany and Australia on energy efficiency in buildings
https://www.eec.org.au/policy-advocacy/projects/further-faster-together
Webinar: Further, faster, together: Collaboration on energy efficiency in buildings 2.0
https://adelphi.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EBkoTszZR465UYEU_k42kw
Mentioned in this episode:
National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 public comment draft
https://consultation.abcb.gov.au/engagement/ncc-2022-public-comment-draft-stage-2/
How our energy efficient homes are a breeding ground for COVID-19
https://www.domain.com.au/news/how-our-energy-efficient-homes-are-a-breeding-ground-for-covid-19-1086246/
Condensation management (Renew article by Jenny Edwards)
https://renew.org.au/renew-magazine/efficient-homes/condensation-management/#:~:text=Jenny%20Edwards%20recommends%20a%20holistic,homes%20are%20on%20the%20increase.&text=Poor%20moisture%20management%20also%20results,and%20last%20a%20long%20time
Key topics:
Policy landscape
- Update’s to residential energy efficiency provisions in Australia’s national construction code
- Practical principles for industry and policy makers looking to improve thermal performance
Improving residential energy efficiency
- Myths and misconceptions around insulation, airtightness, ventilation and condensation
- Straightforward building practices to optimise across these areas
Connect with our guests:
Find Jenny at https://www.lighthouseteam.com.au
Find John at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzLaC1JZUVwvHAxt1FzyloA
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
32:43
September 30, 2021

53: Euro vision with Ruud Kempener
In Episode 53 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Ruud Kempener from the European Commission's Directorate-General for Energy.
Luke and Ruud discuss the European Union’s ambition to cut its emissions by at least 55% by 2030, the Commission’s suite of ambitious new policy proposals known as 'Fit for 55', and the central role of energy efficiency and energy management in the bloc's climate plans.
Mentioned in this episode:
European Green Deal: Commission proposes transformation of EU economy and society to meet climate ambitions
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_3541
Q&A: How ‘Fit for 55’ reforms will help EU meet its climate goals
https://www.carbonbrief.org/qa-how-fit-for-55-reforms-will-help-eu-meet-its-climate-goals
First Fuel Episode 51: ‘This won’t hurt a bit’ with Tennant Reed
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/51-This-wont-hurt-a-bit-with-Tennant-Reed-e16e3ab
From EEC HQ:
Certified Energy Manager training – registrations close 28 September
https://www.eec.org.au/events/training-2/training#/CEM
Key topics:
European climate policy
- Previous policy measures
- Significance of Fit for 55 program
- Mechanisms for revision and adoption of proposals
Fit for 55
- Key energy elements
- Energy efficiency provisions
- Targeted sectoral policies
- Social and consumer support
Connect with our guests:
Find Ruud at https://twitter.com/EnergyRuud
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
42:05
September 15, 2021

52: 'Safeguard mechanism performance art' with Alison Reeve
In Episode 52 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Alison Reeve, Deputy Program Director of the Energy and Climate Program at Grattan Institute to unpack their new report Towards net zero: Practical policies to reduce industrial emissions.
Luke and Alison discuss the distinct challenges of unlocking emissions reductions in small and large facilities, the opportunity to reform the safeguard mechanism to lower the carbon footprint of big emitters, and how we can leverage state-based energy efficiency schemes to support small and medium manufacturers on their emissions reduction journey.
Mentioned in this episode:
Towards net zero: Practical policies to reduce industrial emissions (Grattan Institute)
https://grattan.edu.au/report/towards-net-zero-practical-policies-to-reduce-industrial-emissions/
First Fuel Episode 51: ‘This won’t hurt a bit’ with Tennant Reed
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/51-This-wont-hurt-a-bit-with-Tennant-Reed-e16e3ab
Key topics:
Industrial emissions reduction
- Broad categories of industrial emissions
- Policy for emissions reduction at different scales
- Merits of national versus state action
Policy options
- Reforming the safeguard mechanism to lower emissions in large industrial emitters
- Opportunities to leverage state based efficiency schemes to support smaller manufacturers
- Importance of sub-metering and energy management systems for energy performance improvement
Connect with our guests:
Find Alison at https://twitter.com/alison_reeve
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
43:05
September 02, 2021

51: 'This won't hurt a bit' with Tennant Reed
In Episode 51 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Tennant Reed, Head of Climate, Energy and Environment Policy at Australian Industry Group to discuss their recent paper on the EU’s proposed Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
Luke and Tennant unpack what this and other potential future CBAMs will mean for the Australian economy, and the role a CBAM could play in Australia's own climate policy architecture.
Mentioned in this episode:
Swings and Roundabouts: The unexpected effects of Carbon Border Adjustments on Australia
https://www.aigroup.com.au/news/policies/2021/swings-and-roundabouts-the-unexpected-effects-of-carbon-border-adjustments-on-australia/
Tennant’s report celebration cake
https://twitter.com/TennantReed/status/1427397945553391625
Key topics:
Carbon border adjustment mechanisms
- EU proposed policy
- Rationale and goals of carbon border adjustments
- Design considerations for CBAMs
Potential utility for Australia
- Managing impacts of future carbon reduction policies on trade exposed industries
- Relative merits of free credits versus a CBAM
Connect with our guests:
Find Tennant at https://twitter.com/TennantReed
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
42:10
August 26, 2021

50: Mirror universe with Luke Menzel
In Episode 50 of First Fuel, Efficiency Canada’s Executive Director, Corey Diamond, is joined by Luke Menzel, CEO of the Energy Efficiency Council, Australia’s peak body for energy efficiency, energy management and demand response.
Luke and Corey discuss the origins of the Energy Efficiency Council, the challenges facing advocates trying to build an enduring consensus for change, and the areas in which Australia is leading the world on energy efficiency policy.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Green State
https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/green-state
National Australian Built Environment Rating System
https://www.nabers.gov.au
Energy Efficiency and Australia’s Economic Recovery – Summit Highlights
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V40eP1xekgo&t=1s
First Fuel Episode 10: Swiss army knife of stimulus with Michael Liebreich
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/10-Swiss-army-knife-of-stimulus-with-Michael-Liebreich-eg6rvm
Key topics:
Energy and climate advocacy
- Theories of change
- Balancing critique and engagement
- Grounding engagement around sectoral pathways
Building ratings and disclosure
- History of the National Australian Built Environment Rating System
- Role of government procurement and mandatory disclosure in driving adoption
- Impact on abatement and financial savings
Connect with our guest host:
Find Efficiency Canada at https://twitter.com/EfficiencyCAN
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
37:27
August 19, 2021

49: 'The biggest repair job in human history' with John Connor
In Episode 49 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by John Connor, CEO of the Carbon Market Institute.
Luke and John unpack this week’s blockbuster report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the big topics on the agenda for the upcoming UNFCCC Conference of Parties in Glasgow, and what Australia needs to do to step up to the climate challenge.
Mentioned in this episode:
Carbon Market Institute
https://carbonmarketinstitute.org
Climate Change 2021 The Physical Science Basis Summary for Policymakers (IPCC)
https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_WGI_SPM.pdf
CMI media release: IPCC report spotlights need for stronger Australian climate action and policies
https://carbonmarketinstitute.org/2021/08/09/ipcc-report-spotlights-need-for-stronger-australian-climate-action-and-policies/
Key topics:
Climate science
- Latest account of the physical science of climate change from the IPCC
- Implications for global mitigation efforts
Climate policy
- Drivers for increased ambition in climate targets
- Australia’s current policy settings and opportunities for further action
Connect with our guests:
Find John at https://twitter.com/jconnoroz
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
31:32
August 12, 2021

48: Building momentum with Frankie Muskovic
In Episode 48 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Frankie Muskovic, National Policy Manager for Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at the Property Council of Australia.
Luke and Frankie discuss corporate net zero commitments, the challenge of decarbonising residual emissions in commercial buildings, and two policy processes that have the potential to drive a big uptick in the energy efficiency of Aussie homes.
Mentioned in this episode:
National Australian Built Environment Rating System
https://www.nabers.gov.au
Green Star
https://new.gbca.org.au/rate/green-star/
Climate Active
https://www.climateactive.org.au
Property Council submission to the Bushfire Royal Commission
https://www.propertycouncil.com.au/Web/Content/Submissions/National/2020/Property%20Council%20submission%20to%20Royal%20Commission%20into%20National%20Natural%20Disaster%20Arrangements.aspx
2020 Better Buildings Partnership Annual Report
https://www.betterbuildingspartnership.com.au/2020-bbp-annual-report-celebrating-ten-years-of-leadership/
National Construction Code 2022: Residential Energy Efficiency FAQ
https://www.abcb.gov.au/resource/guidance-materials/ncc-2022-residential-energy-efficiency
Key topics:
Decarbonising commercial buildings
- Procuring renewables to decarbonise electricity use
- Key residual emissions: gas, refrigerants, backup generators
- Decarbonisation pathways; electrification, hydrogen, biogas
Residential energy efficiency policy
- The role of disclosure of residential energy performance
- Proposed changes in the 2022 National Construction Code
Connect with our guests:
Find Frankie at https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
41:47
July 28, 2021

47: Technology and possibility with Heidi Lee
In Episode 47 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Heidi Lee, CEO of Beyond Zero Emissions, an independent think tank focused on creating solutions for a prosperous net zero Australia.
Luke and Heidi discuss BZE’s history, the huge energy efficiency jobs opportunity highlighted by The Million Jobs Plan, and their latest research on Renewable Energy Industrial Precincts.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Million Jobs Plan
https://bze.org.au/research_release/million-jobs-plan/
Electrifying Industry
https://bze.org.au/research_release/electrifying-industry/
Renewable Energy Industrial Precincts
https://bze.org.au/research_release/renewable-energy-industrial-precincts/
Key topics:
Energy efficiency as economic stimulus
- Key research and analysis in Australia and overseas
- Role of building upgrades in net zero transition
Supporting industry to lower emissions
- Key technologies for electrifying manufacturing
- Enabling infrastructure for decarbonisation
- Integrating policy to drive a prosperous net zero Australia
Connect with our guests:
Find Heidi at https://twitter.com/heidileesays
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
38:42
July 21, 2021

46: Nesting dolls of efficiency with Wendy Miller
In Episode 46 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by QUT’s Associate Professor Wendy Miller, one of Australia’s leading researchers on the intersection between the built environment and our rapidly transforming energy system.
Luke and Wendy discuss how her background as a musician informs her research approach, her work with the International Energy Agency’s Energy in Buildings and Communities Programme (IEA EBC), and some of the research priorities emerging from the RACE for 2030 Cooperative Research Centre.
Mentioned in this episode:
Factor ten engineering (Rocky Mountain Institute)
https://rmi.org/our-work/areas-of-innovation/office-chief-scientist/10xe-factor-ten-engineering/
IEA EBC Annex 80 – Resilient Cooling of Buildings
https://annex80.iea-ebc.org
What the Dandenong Ranges extended power outage teaches us about backup battery power (ABC News)
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-07-03/battery-power-dandenong-ranges-tesla-agm-grid/100264988
RACE for 2030 CRC: Race for Homes
https://www.racefor2030.com.au/race-for-homes/
Key topics:
Buildings and grid stability
- Role of thermal performance of building envelope in grid load
- Intersection of building and energy system regulation
- Pre-heating and cooling to support interaction with high penetrations of renewables
Targeting resilience
- Shifting risk profiles associated with more regular extreme weather
- Potential KPIs for building resilience
- Regulating for resilience in the event of grid disconnection
Connect with our guests:
Send us an email at firstfuel@eec.org.au and we’ll forward it to Wendy.
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
40:15
July 07, 2021

45: Centring consumers with Lauren Solomon
In Episode 45 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Lauren Solomon, CEO of the Consumer Policy Research Centre, an independent think-tank focused on how markets can be designed to deliver better outcomes for consumers.
Luke and Lauren discuss whether the ‘consumer-centric’ energy transition is rhetoric or reality, how to build the trust that will underpin new energy service business models, and emerging challenges for consumers in the energy space, and how they can be addressed.
Mentioned in this episode:
Consumer Policy Research Centre
https://cprc.org.au
First Fuel Episode 7: Technology and trust with Rosemary Sinclair AM
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/7-Technology-and-trust-with-Rosemary-Sinclair-AM-ef9idi/a-a2eiajm
Key topics:
Implications of energy transition for consumers
- Role of regulators in establishing ‘guard rails’ in emerging markets
- Trust as an enabler for energy service business models that rely on aggregation
- Increasing interaction between regulatory frameworks (building codes and energy markets)
Connect with our guests:
Find Lauren Solomon at https://twitter.com/__laurensolomon
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
32:05
June 24, 2021

44: Common wealth with Corey Diamond
In Episode 44 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Corey Diamond, Executive Director at Efficiency Canada, Canada's national voice for an energy efficient economy.
Luke and Corey discuss the drivers for energy efficiency policy in Canada, the Canadian Government's recent, multi-billion dollar investments in energy efficiency across buildings and industry, and how Australia and Canada can work together to unlock their 'common wealth': the untapped energy efficiency resource that exists in both nations.
Mentioned in this episode:
Efficiency Canada
https://www.efficiencycanada.org
ACEEE’s International Energy Efficiency Scorecard
https://www.aceee.org/portal/national-policy/international-scorecard
First Fuel Episode 22: Presidents and policies with Steve Nadel
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/22-Presidents-and-policies-with-Steve-Nadel-ek350i
Prime Minister Trudeau and Carleton’s Efficiency Canada announce Greener Homes initiative
https://charlatan.ca/2021/05/prime-minister-trudeau-and-carletons-efficiency-canada-announce-greener-homes-initiative/
$2 Billion for Commercial Building Retrofits from Canada Infrastructure Bank
https://www.efficiencycanada.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-energy-efficiency-in-todays-canada-infrastructure-bank-cib-announcement/
Overview of Canada’s industry decarbonisation funding measures
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=fe0413df-7c75-4ac2-a0f9-c9c0157083f9
Key topics:
Energy efficiency policy in Canada
- Pre-pandemic policy settings
- Role of carbon pricing in public debate
New climate and economic stimulus measures
- Residential building upgrades
- Commercial building upgrades
- Net zero accelerator for industry
Comparing Australia and Canada
- Policy and performance
- Opportunities for collaboration
Connect with our guest:
Find Efficiency Canada at https://twitter.com/EfficiencyCAN
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
38:54
June 09, 2021

43: Industry and opportunity with Jarrod Leak
In Episode 43 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Jarrod Leak, CEO of the Australian Alliance for Energy Productivity.
Luke and Jarrod begin by discussing his transition from an executive role in the private sector to leading a not-for-profit. Then they dig into some of the big energy productivity and emissions reduction opportunities in the industrial sector: metering, process heat and compressed air.
Mentioned in this episode:
Australian Alliance for Energy Productivity
https://www.a2ep.org.au
RACE for 2030
https://www.racefor2030.com.au
Key topics:
Industrial energy productivity and decarbonisation
- The role of metering and sub metering in building business cases for energy performance upgrades
- Technology options for reducing emissions from process heat
- Dealing with the energy intensity of compressed air: efficiency, and alternatives
Connect with our guests:
Find Jarrod at https://twitter.com/DoMoreUseLess
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
34:57
May 27, 2021

42: Efficiency and net zero with Alyssa Fischer
In Episode 42 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Alyssa Fischer, an energy policy analyst specialising in energy efficiency at the International Energy Agency.
Luke and Alyssa discuss her recent op-ed on the role of energy efficiency in achieving net zero, why the transition to renewables doesn’t mean we can disregard energy efficiency and the role energy efficiency in the economic recovery plans rolling out around the world.
Mentioned in this episode:
How Energy Efficiency Will Power Net-Zero Climate Goals (Alyssa’s op-ed)
https://www.iea.org/commentaries/how-energy-efficiency-will-power-net-zero-climate-goals
World Energy Outlook 2020 (IEA)
https://www.iea.org/reports/world-energy-outlook-2020
Net Zero in 2050: A roadmap for the global energy system (IEA, launching 18 May)
https://www.iea.org/events/net-zero-in-2050-a-roadmap-for-the-global-energy-system
First Fuel Episode 10: Swiss army knife of stimulus with Michael Liebreich
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/10-Swiss-army-knife-of-stimulus-with-Michael-Liebreich-eg6rvm
First Fuel Episode 34: Market impacts with Jeremy Sung
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/34-Market-impacts-with-Jeremy-Sung-ent7vl
Energy Efficiency 2020 (IEA)
https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-efficiency-2020
Renovation Wave: doubling the renovation rate to cut emissions, boost recovery and reduce energy poverty (European Commission)
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_20_1835
Heat pump rollout target (UK)
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-outlines-his-ten-point-plan-for-a-green-industrial-revolution-for-250000-jobs
Deep retrofit funding (Canada)
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2021/04/budget-2021-a-healthy-environment-for-a-healthy-economy.html
Key topics:
IEA modelling for net zero emissions
- Scenarios for carbon reduction; role of energy efficiency; interaction with decarbonising energy system
Curent market trends
Lagging energy performance improvement; implications for
COVID recovery plans
Role of energy efficiency in economic recovery plans (EU, UK, US, Canada)
Connect with our guests:
Find Alyssa at https://twitter.com/alyshafisha
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
37:27
May 12, 2021

41: Assembling the A-Team with Dian Grueneich
In Episode 41 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Dian Grueneich, Precourt Energy Scholar with Stanford University’s Precourt Institute for Energy. Luke and Dian discuss the detail of the Biden Administration's climate policies, the likelihood of proposed measures passing through Congress, what the US expects from allies like Australia in the lead up to the next big global climate summit in Glasgow.
Mentioned in this episode:
‘My Shot’, from Hamilton: An American Musical
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic7NqP_YGlg
Leaders Summit on Climate
https://www.state.gov/leaders-summit-on-climate/
The American Jobs Plan
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/03/31/fact-sheet-the-american-jobs-plan/
International Energy Agency commentary: Gap between climate rhetoric and action is highlighted at US Climate Leaders’ Summit
https://tinyurl.com/2n4eat67
Key topics addressed:
US climate policy
- Domestic agenda; global stance; institutional barriers to implementation
Global climate policy
- Drivers for interim carbon targets; carbon border adjustment mechanism
Australian climate policy
- Implications of raised global ambition for Australian targets
Connect with our guests:
Find Dian at https://twitter.com/DianGrueneich
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
42:00
April 28, 2021

40: Passion and policy with Katie McKenzie
In Episode 40 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Katie McKenzie. Katie is President of the Australian Institute of Energy, Managing Director of Macht Consulting and has just concluded four years as Principal Policy Advisor to two successive energy ministers in the McGowan Government in Western Australia.
Luke and Katie discuss the particular opportunities and challenges facing Western Australia on energy and climate, Katie’s work as a member of Western Australia’s Energy Transformation Task Force, and what she learnt in her four years as a ministerial advisor.
Mentioned in this episode:
Western Australia’s Energy Transformation Strategy
https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/energy-policy-wa/energy-transformation-strategy
Australian Industry Energy Transitions Initiative
https://energytransitionsinitiative.org
Australian Institute of Energy
https://www.aie.org.au
ClimateLaunchpad
https://climate-kic.org.au/our-programs/launchpad/
Connect with our guests:
Find Katie at https://twitter.com/KatieMac_llb
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
33:57
April 15, 2021

39: 'One of the big ones' with Bridgette Carter
In Episode 39 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Bridgette Carter, Manager, Energy Sourcing & Utilisation at BlueScope and Deputy Chair of the Energy Users Association of Australia. Luke and Bridgette discuss the crucial role energy plays in BlueScope’s steel production, the company’s long history of proactive energy management, and the role of industry in the transition to a net zero economy.
Mentioned in this episode:
BlueScope’s climate plans
https://www.bluescope.com/about-us/bluescope-news/2020/10/climate-change-action/
BlueScope’s appointment of a Chief Executive Climate Change
https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/bluescope-corporate-umbraco-media/media/3098/1h-fy2021-asx-release.pdf
Australian Industry Energy Transitions Initiative
https://energytransitionsinitiative.org
Energy Users’ Association of Australia
https://euaa.com.au
Connect with our guests:
Find Bridgette at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgette-carter-b6079035
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
37:12
March 30, 2021

38: Lit up like the Starship Enterprise with Jon Dee
In Episode 38 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by social entrepreneur, broadcaster and philanthropist Jon Dee, RE100’s Australia coordinator and co-founder of Planet Ark.
Luke and Jon discuss the origins of his passion for energy efficiency, the compelling economic case for sustainability investments, and the particular opportunities and challenges faced by small and large businesses navigating the energy transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
Jon’s website
jondee.com
Energy Cut – The 20 Step Guide to Cutting Energy Bills in Your Business
https://jondee.com/books/
RE100 in Australia
https://www.there100.org/our-international-work
Lion goes carbon neutral
https://lionco.com/2019/11/14/lion-to-become-austalias-first-major-carbon-neutral-brewer/
BZE’s Million Jobs Plan
https://bze.org.au/research_release/million-jobs-plan/
Connect with our guests:
Find Jon at https://twitter.com/JonDeeOz
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
30:53
March 18, 2021

37: Vision plus business model with Alison Rowe
In Episode 37 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Alison Rowe, who has just stepped down after five years as CEO of Australian Energy Foundation (AEF).
Luke and Alison discuss AEF’s origins as the Moreland Energy Foundation Limited (MEFL), the decision to rebrand and take the organisation national, and the importance of having both a vision, and a business model that delivers it.
Mentioned in this episode:
Australian Energy Foundation
www.aef.com.au
Connect with our guests:
Find Alison at https://twitter.com/AlisonRoweAU
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
32:36
March 03, 2021

36: ’The grid is good’ with Damien Moyse
In Episode 36 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Damien Moyse, who this week stepped down from his role as Renew’s Policy and Research Manager after twelve years.
Luke and Damien discuss Renew’s unique research and advocacy role, some of the key achievements of the last twelve years, and what still needs to be done to deliver an energy transition that works for consumers.
Mentioned in this episode:
First Fuel Episode 17: Healthy homes with Donna Luckman
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/17-Healthy-homes-with-Donna-Luckman-eidbce
Renew research archive
https://renew.org.au/what-we-do/research/
Flame out: the future of natural gas (Grattan Institute)
https://grattan.edu.au/report/flame-out-the-future-of-natural-gas/
The Challenge of Retail Gas in California’s Low-Carbon Future (California Energy Commission)
https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/2019publications/CEC-500-2019-055/index.html
Connect with our guests:
Find Damien on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/damien-moyse-90839830/?originalSubdomain=au
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
40:31
February 18, 2021

35: Grubby centrism with Frankie Muskovic and Tennant Reed
In Episode 35 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests: Francesca Muskovic, National Policy Manager for Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at the Property Council of Australia, and Tennant Reed, Head of Climate, Energy and Environment Policy at Australian Industry Group.
Luke, Frankie and Tennant discuss what is on the energy and climate agenda for 2021, how it will be shaped by the newly-minted Biden administration, and what it all means for Australia.
Mentioned in this episode:
First Fuel Episode 29: Biden and climate with Frankie Muskovic and Tennant Reed
https://anchor.fm/energy-efficiency-council/episodes/29-Biden-and-climate-with-Frankie-Muskovic-and-Tennant-Reed-em7rfc
Connect with our guests:
Find Frankie at https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Find Tennant at https://twitter.com/TennantReed
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
51:13
February 03, 2021

34: Market impacts with Jeremy Sung
In Episode 34 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Jeremy Sung, an energy policy analyst specialising in energy efficiency at the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Luke and Jeremy discuss Energy Efficiency 2020, the latest edition of the IEA’s annual energy efficiency market report. They cover the worrying slowdown in global energy efficiency improvement, the factors driving this trend, and what governments can do to respond.
Mentioned in this episode:
Energy Efficiency 2020
https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-efficiency-2020
Recommendations of the Global Commission for Urgent Action on Energy Efficiency
https://www.iea.org/reports/recommendations-of-the-global-commission-for-urgent-action-on-energy-efficiency
IEA welcomes commitment by leading countries to drive global progress on energy efficiency
https://www.iea.org/news/iea-welcomes-commitment-by-leading-countries-to-drive-global-progress-on-energy-efficiency
World Energy Outlook Special Report on Sustainable Recovery
https://www.iea.org/reports/sustainable-recovery/a-sustainable-recovery-plan-for-the-energy-sector
Connect with our guests:
Find Jeremy at https://twitter.com/jeremyksung
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
43:14
December 16, 2020

33: Climate for change with Connie Hedegaard
In Episode 33 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Connie Hedegaard, Former European Commissioner for Climate Action. Luke and Connie discuss growing global momentum for ambitious action on climate change, and the central role of energy efficiency in the transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
Recommendations of the Global Commission for Urgent Action on Energy Efficiency
https://www.iea.org/reports/recommendations-of-the-global-commission-for-urgent-action-on-energy-efficiency
A European Green Deal
https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en
Get a pass and catch up with ALL the great sessions at the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2020
eec.org.au/conference
Connect with our guests:
Find Connie at https://twitter.com/@CoHedegaard
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
41:18
December 11, 2020

32: Setting goals with Zali Steggall
In Episode 32 of First Fuel, we bring you a special ‘Sundowner session’ direct from last week’s National Energy Efficiency Conference.
Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel and Independent MP for Warringah, Zali Steggall OAM, catch up for a beer to discuss her effort to help Australia turn the page on a decade of dysfunctional climate politics.
Mentioned in this episode:
Wild Australia: After the fires (ABC iView)
https://iview.abc.net.au/show/wild-australia-after-the-fires
Zali’s Climate Change Bill
https://www.zalisteggall.com.au/questions_and_answers_on_our_climate_change_bill
Get a pass and catch up with ALL the great sessions at the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2020
eec.org.au/conference
Connect with our guests:
Find Zali at https://twitter.com/zalisteggall
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
28:41
December 03, 2020

31: ‘Coopers is old school’ with Mark Butler
In Episode 31 of First Fuel, we bring you a special ‘Sundowner session’ direct from this week’s National Energy Efficiency Conference.
Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel and Labor Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Mark Butler catch up for a beer and discuss, well, 2020.
Mentioned in this episode:
Get a pass and catch up with ALL the great sessions at the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2020
eec.org.au/conference
Connect with our guests:
Find Mark at https://twitter.com/Mark_Butler_MP
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
30:06
November 26, 2020

30: Hard working stimulus with Kellie Caught and Nick Aberle
In Episode 30 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Kellie Caught, Senior Adviser, Climate & Energy at the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) and Nick Aberle, Campaigns Manager at Environment Victoria. Luke, Kellie, and Nick discuss the landmark $797 million dollar energy efficiency package announced by the Victorian Government earlier this week.
Mentioned in this episode:
Victoria's $797 million energy efficiency stimulus package
https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/helping-victorians-pay-their-power-bills
One Million Homes Alliance
https://environmentvictoria.org.au/campaign/one-million-homes/
Joint statement for healthy, affordable homes
https://www.acoss.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Joint-statement-for-Healthy-Affordable-Homes.pdf
National Energy Efficiency Conference 2020
www.eec.org.au/conference
Connect with our guests:
Find Kellie at https://twitter.com/Kelliecaught
Find Nick at https://twitter.com/NickAberle
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
47:43
November 20, 2020

29: Biden and climate with Frankie Muskovic and Tennant Reed
In Episode 29 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests: Francesca Muskovic, National Policy Manager for Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at the Property Council of Australia, and Tennant Reed, Head of Climate, Energy and Environment Policy at Australian Industry Group.
Luke, Frankie and Tennant unpack Joe Biden’s win in the 2020 United States Presidential election and what it means for American climate policy. They also reflect on the likely flow on effects for global climate talks, and how renewed US interest in climate action may influence the political debate here in Australia.
Mentioned in this episode:
Interview with former Australian Prime Ministers Kevin Rudd and Malcolm Turnbull (Insiders, Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
https://iview.abc.net.au/show/insiders-the-interviews/series/0/video/NN2015H047S00
Connect with our guests:
Find Frankie at https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Find Tennant at https://twitter.com/TennantReed
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
53:59
November 09, 2020

28: Data and discovery with Carlos Flores and Esther Bailey
In Episode 28 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined two members of the team at the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS), Director Carlos Flores and Head of Market Development, Esther Bailey.
Luke, Carlos and Esther discuss some of the key themes from the NABERS Annual Report 2019/20: the future of NABERS, sector expansion, the second year of the Sustainable Portfolios Index, and NABERS’ rapid response to the global pandemic.
Mentioned in this episode:
NABERS Annual Report 2019/20
https://nabers.info/annual-report/2019-2020/
NABERS Sustainable Portfolios Index 2020
https://www.nabers.gov.au/portfolio
Connect with our guests:
Find Carlos at https://twitter.com/CarlosFloresLen
Find Esther at https://twitter.com/estherbailey
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:03:29
November 05, 2020

27: Government leadership with Annie Shepperd
In Episode 27 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests: Annie Shepperd, CEO of Salix Finance, an organisation wholly owned by the UK Government which provides interest-free capital to public sector bodies for energy efficiency upgrades, and the Energy Efficiency Council’s own Holly Taylor, Senior Manager for Projects and Partnerships.
Luke, Annie and Holly discuss the role Salix Finance has played in financing local government energy efficiency improvements in the UK, and the £1 billion of stimulus funding recently allocated to Salix by the Johnson Government to drive the next wave public sector energy efficiency upgrades.
Mentioned in this episode:
Salix Finance
https://www.salixfinance.co.uk
Salix Finance to deliver BEIS £1 billion Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme to tackle carbon emissions
https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/£1bn_Announcement
Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme
https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/PSDS
Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund
https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/public_sector_low_carbon_skills_fund
Connect with our guests:
Find Salix Finance at https://twitter.com/SalixFinance
Find Holly Taylor at https://twitter.com/hollymtaylor_
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
58:57
October 29, 2020

26: Business panel – Navigating a dynamic energy landscape
In Episode 26 of First Fuel, we bring you a panel discussion from the launch of the third edition of the Energy Efficiency Council’s annual energy briefing for Australian businesses, Navigating a dynamic energy landscape.
Luke is joined by Bridgette Carter, Manager of Energy Sourcing & Utilisation at BlueScope Steel, Justin Merrell, Group Environment Director at Lion, Christina Tonkin, Managing Director of Corporate Finance for Institutional Banking at ANZ and Tony Wood, Energy Program Director at the Grattan Institute to discuss how businesses can manage risks and capture opportunities around energy and carbon in the midst of COVID-19.
Mentioned in this episode:
Navigating a dynamic energy landscape: A briefing for Australian businesses (Energy Efficiency Council)
www.energybriefing.org.au
Navigating a dynamic energy landscape: A briefing for Australian manufacturers (Energy Efficiency Council)
https://www.energybriefing.org.au/sector-spotlights
Lion becomes Australia’s first large-scale carbon neutral brewer
https://www.lionco.com/media-centre/lion-is-first-carbon-neutral-brewer
Australian Industry Energy Transitions Initiative (Climateworks Australia & Climate-KIC)
https://energytransitionsinitiative.org
Start with steel: A practical plan to support carbon workers and cut emissions (Grattan Institute)
https://grattan.edu.au/report/start-with-steel/
Connect with our guests:
Find Christina at https://twitter.com/tonkinchristina
Find Tony at https://twitter.com/tony_r_wood
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:17:18
October 21, 2020

25: Building coalitions with Frankie Muskovic
In Episode 25 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Francesca Muskovic, National Policy Manager for Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at the Property Council of Australia and Stakeholder Chair of the Steering Committee for the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS).
Luke and Frankie discuss her early aspirations to get into Formula 1, the energy efficiency announcements in last week’s Federal budget, and the role of gas in the property sector’s transition to net zero.
Mentioned in this episode:
NABERS Annual Report 2019/20
https://nabers.info/annual-report/2019-2020/major-achievements/
Low Carbon, High Performance (Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council)
https://www.asbec.asn.au/research-items/low-carbon-high-performance-report/
Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings (Australian Government)
https://www.energy.gov.au/government-priorities/energy-productivity-and-energy-efficiency/trajectory-low-energy-buildings
Energy efficiency announcements in Federal budget (Energy Efficiency Council)
https://energyefficiencycouncil.cmail20.com/t/ViewEmail/i/E1240017511676C02540EF23F30FEDED/073AF3405309D5198BD4C707EBCCB890
GPT fast tracks net zero target by six years
https://www.thefifthestate.com.au/innovation/commercial/gpt-fast-tracks-net-zero-target-by-six-years/
Connect with our guests:
Find Frankie at https://twitter.com/FrankieMuskovic
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
52:24
October 15, 2020

24: Energy panel – Accelerating a green recovery
In Episode 24 of First Fuel, we bring you a panel discussion from the joint opening plenary of All-Energy Australia and Energy Efficiency Expo hosted by Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel on the eve of the 2020 Federal Budget.
Luke is joined by Anna Skarbek from ClimateWorks Australia, Amanda McKenzie from the Climate Council, Eytan Lenko from Beyond Zero Emissions, Ian Learmonth from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and Kane Thornton from the Clean Energy Council to discuss how we can accelerate a clean economic recovery in Australia.
Mentioned in this episode:
Special Report on Sustainable Recovery (IEA and IMF)
https://www.iea.org/reports/sustainable-recovery
Stimulus spending by nation (Carbon brief)
https://www.carbonbrief.org/coronavirus-tracking-how-the-worlds-green-recovery-plans-aim-to-cut-emissions
Decarbonisation Futures (ClimateWorks Australia)
https://www.climateworksaustralia.org/resource/decarbonisation-futures-solutions-actions-and-benchmarks-for-a-net-zero-emissions-australia/
Clean Jobs Plan (Climate Council)
https://www.climatecouncil.org.au/resources/clean-jobs-plan/
Million Jobs Plan (Beyond Zero Emissions)
https://millionjobs.org.au
A Clean Recovery (Clean Energy Council)
https://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/advocacy-initiatives/a-clean-recovery
To register for upcoming virtual sessions as part of All-Energy Australia and Energy Efficiency Expo visit:
All-Energy Australia
all-energy.com.au
Energy Efficiency Expo
energyefficiencyexpo.com.au
Connect with our guests:
Find Amanda McKenzie at https://twitter.com/@McKenzieAmanda
Find Anna Skarbek at https://twitter.com/Anna_Skarbek
Find Eytan Lenko at https://twitter.com/eytanlenko
Find Ian Learmonth at https://twitter.com/ilearmonth
Fina Kane Thornton at https://twitter.com/kanethornton
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:01:13
October 06, 2020

23: Energy, emissions and economic recovery with Tony Wood
In Episode 23 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Tony Wood, one of Australia’s leading energy commentators and Director of the Grattan Institute’s Energy Program.
Luke and Tony discuss the Australian Government’s First Low Emissions Technology Statement, ARENA's expanded remit and the $1.6 billion of funding that has been allocated to deliver it, and the prospects for a 'gas-led' economic recovery.
Mentioned in this episode:
War-weary of energy warriors should find good in Fed Govt proposals (Tony Wood op-ed)
https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/national/2020/09/23/renewable-energy-australia/
Technology Investment Roadmap: First Low Emissions Technology Statement 2020 (Australian Government)
https://www.industry.gov.au/data-and-publications/technology-investment-roadmap-first-low-emissions-technology-statement-2020
Start with steel: A practical plan to support carbon workers and cut emissions (Grattan Institute)
https://grattan.edu.au/report/start-with-steel/
Media release: Investment in new energy technologies (Prime Minister of Australia)
https://www.pm.gov.au/media/investment-new-energy-technologies
Media release: Ensuring affordable, reliable and secure energy supply (Prime Minister of Australia)
https://www.pm.gov.au/media/ensuring-affordable-reliable-and-secure-electricity-supply
Media release: Gas-fired recovery (Prime Minister of Australia)
https://www.pm.gov.au/media/gas-fired-recovery
Post pandemic policy: Climate and energy (Ai Group)
https://www.aigroup.com.au/policy-and-research/policy-papers/climate-energy/
Connect with our guests:
Find Tony at https://twitter.com/tony_r_wood
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
51:21
September 30, 2020

22: Presidents and policies with Steve Nadel
In Episode 22 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Steven Nadel, Executive Director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Luke and Steve discuss US Government’s approach to energy efficiency under different Presidents, action on energy efficiency at the state and federal level under President Trump, and the Biden campaign’s plan to put energy efficiency at the heart of a green recovery.
Mentioned in this episode:
The International Energy Efficiency Scorecard (ACEEE)
https://www.aceee.org/portal/national-policy/international-scorecard
2019 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard (ACEEE)
https://www.aceee.org/research-report/u1908
Growing a Greener Economy: Job and Climate Impacts from Energy Efficiency Investments (ACEEE)
https://www.aceee.org/white-paper/2020/09/growing-greener-economy-job-and-climate-impacts-energy-efficiency-investments
Halfway There: Energy Efficiency Can Cut Energy Use and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Half by 2050 (ACEEE)
https://www.aceee.org/fact-sheet/halfway-there
National Energy Efficiency Conference 2020 (EEC)
https://www.eec.org.au/neec20/program
Connect with our guests:
Find the ACEEE at https://twitter.com/ACEEEdc
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
44:18
September 24, 2020

21: Dynamic systems with Edith Bayer
In Episode 21 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Edith Bayer, an energy policy analyst specialising in energy efficiency at the International Energy Agency.
Luke and Edith discuss her recent article on utility-funded energy efficiency programs, their role in economic recovery post COVID-19, and how they are evolving to enable dynamic, 21st century electricity systems.
Mentioned in this episode:
Paving the way to recovery with utility-funded energy efficiency (International Energy Agency)
https://www.iea.org/articles/paving-the-way-to-recovery-with-utility-funded-energy-efficiency
Energy Technology Perspectives 2020 (International Energy Agency)
https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-technology-perspectives-2020
Sustainable Recovery Report (International Energy Agency and International Monetary Fund)
https://www.iea.org/reports/sustainable-recovery
First Fuel live recording: The future of energy efficiency in the United Stated with Steve Nadel
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KedQxBsSRz-4PjkS_h9INA
Connect with our guests:
Find Edith at https://twitter.com/edithmbayer
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:03:24
September 17, 2020

20: Transforming markets with Meg McDonald
In Episode 20 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Meg McDonald, who’s been local and global leader on the response to climate change and the energy transition for over two decades. Luke and Meg discuss her background working on climate issues overseas, the climate and energy institutions she has helped establish in Australia over the last decade, and her role on the Expert Panel of the Decarbonisation Innovation Study released by NSW’s Chief Scientist this week.
Mentioned in this episode:
Post-2025 electricity market consultation (Energy Security Board)
https://esb-post2025-market-design.aemc.gov.au
Decarbonisation Innovation Study (NSW Chief Scientist)
https://www.chiefscientist.nsw.gov.au/independent-reports/decarbonisation
Decarbonisation Futures report (ClimateWorks Australia)
https://www.climateworksaustralia.org/resource/decarbonisation-futures-solutions-actions-and-benchmarks-for-a-net-zero-emissions-australia/
Connect with our guests:
Find Meg at https://twitter.com/McDonaldMeg
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
58:11
September 10, 2020

19: Post pandemic pathways with Tennant Reed
In Episode 19 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Tennant Reed, Head of Climate, Energy and Environment Policy at Australian Industry Group, to discuss their recent paper on post pandemic energy and climate policy.
Luke and Tennant discuss the impact of COVID-19 on gas prices, electricity prices and emissions, the reasons these changes are unlikely to endure, and why a vision for net zero – and policy action to back it up – is more crucial than ever.
Mentioned in this episode:
Ring Fit Adventure for Nintendo Switch (video)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gO6fw0GU-fE
Post Pandemic Policy: Climate and Energy (Ai Group)
https://www.aigroup.com.au/policy-and-research/policy-papers/climate-energy/
Statement on managing climate risk (Australian Climate Roundtable)
https://www.australianclimateroundtable.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/ACR_statement_on_climate_impacts-August_2020.pdf
Building a stronger and cleaner post-pandemic Australia (joint statement on energy efficiency stimulus)
https://www.eec.org.au/news/eec-news/article/building-a-stronger-and-cleaner-post-pandemic-australia
Connect with our guests:
Find Tennant at https://twitter.com/TennantReed
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:02:31
September 03, 2020

18: Getting further faster with Paul Ruyssevelt and Carlos Flores
In Episode 18 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by two guests: Paul Ruyssevelt, Professor of Energy and Building Performance at University College London’s Energy Institute, and Carlos Flores, Director of the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS).
Luke, Paul and Carlos chat about the role of the International Energy Agency’s Energy in Buildings and Communities Programme in driving global collaboration on high performance buildings. Along the way they cover the new field of building energy epidemiology, the prospects for demand response in commercial buildings, and whether electricity or hydrogen will win the race to decarbonise the built environment.
Mentioned in this episode:
UCL Energy Institute
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/bartlett/energy/
National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS)
https://www.nabers.gov.au
International Energy Agency’s Energy in Buildings and Communities Programme
https://www.iea-ebc.org
The Energy Efficiency Council’s page profiling key IEA EBC activities
https://www.eec.org.au/policy-advocacy/partnerships/IEA-EBC-in-Australia
Annex 70 – Building Energy Epidemiology: Analysis of Real Building Energy Use at Scale
https://www.eec.org.au/policy-advocacy/partnerships/IEA-EBC-in-Australia/IEA-EBC-Annexes/#Annex70
Annex 81 – Data-driven Smart Buildings;
https://www.eec.org.au/policy-advocacy/partnerships/IEA-EBC-in-Australia/IEA-EBC-Annexes/#Annex81
Annex 82 – Energy Flexible Buildings Towards Resilient Low Carbon Energy Systems
https://www.eec.org.au/policy-advocacy/partnerships/IEA-EBC-in-Australia/IEA-EBC-Annexes/#EBC-Annex-82
Connect with our guests:
Find Paul at https://twitter.com/PaulRuyssevelt
Find Carlos at https://twitter.com/CarlosFloresLen
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
48:41
August 27, 2020

17: Healthy homes with Donna Luckman
In Episode 17 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Donna Luckman to chat about her current role at the Coalition for Community Energy, her time leading the sustainable housing advocacy organisation Renew, and the crucial regulatory reforms that are needed to ensure all Australians live in healthy, comfortable and affordable homes.
Mentioned in this episode:
Coalition for Community Energy
https://c4ce.net.au
Renew
https://renew.org.au
The Pears Report: Reflections on two decades of energy and climate policy
https://shop.ata.org.au/shop/pearscollection
Community Coalition for Healthy Affordable Homes
https://renew.org.au/advocacy/we-need-healthy-homes/
ASBEC built to perform
https://www.asbec.asn.au/research-items/built-perform/
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
48:17
August 20, 2020

16: Investing for impact with Ian Learmonth
In Episode 16 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Ian Learmonth, CEO of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC). They discuss Australia's changing energy mix and the implications for energy management, the CEFC’s recently released Investment Update, and how Ian expects the CEFC’s role to evolve in the midst of COVID-19.
Mentioned in this episode:
CEFC 2019-20 Investment Update
https://www.cefc.com.au/media/media-release/cefc-2019-20-investment-update/
CEFC asset finance
https://www.cefc.com.au/where-we-invest/sustainable-economy/asset-finance/
The CEFC is working with customer-owned lender Bank Australia
https://www.cefc.com.au/media/in-the-news/the-cefc-is-working-with-customer-owned-lender-bank-australia/
Germany’s KfW Bank and its energy efficiency programs
https://www.kfw.de/KfW-Group/Newsroom/Latest-News/Pressemitteilungen-Details_403200.html
JET Charge and CEFC pave the way to cheaper charging for electric vehicles
https://www.cefc.com.au/media/media-release/jet-charge-and-cefc-pave-the-way-to-cheaper-charging-for-electric-vehicles/
Australia’s National Hydrogen Strategy
https://www.industry.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-11/australias-national-hydrogen-strategy.pdf
Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion Paper
https://consult.industry.gov.au/climate-change/technology-investment-roadmap/
Connect with our guests:
Find Ian at https://twitter.com/ilearmonth
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
51:52
August 13, 2020

15: Scaling success with Satish Kumar
In Episode 15 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Satish Kumar, President and Executive Director of the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE), one of India’s leading energy policy think tanks. Luke and Satish discuss India’s energy efficiency policy architecture, its success in the rollout of LEDs, its challenges on space cooling, and the importance of being unreasonable to drive change.
Mentioned in this episode:
Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy
https://www.aeee.in
2018 International Energy Efficiency Scorecard (American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy)
https://www.eec.org.au/news/eec-news/article/australia-ranks-worst-for-energy-efficiency-in-developed-world
Bureau of Energy Efficiency
https://beeindia.gov.in
UJALA dashboard
http://www.ujala.gov.in
India Cooling Action Plan
http://ozonecell.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/INDIA-COOLING-ACTION-PLAN-e-circulation-version080319.pdf
Regulation Impact Statement: 'Smart' Demand Response Capabilities for Selected Appliances (Australia)
https://www.energyrating.gov.au/document/regulation-impact-statement-decision-smart-demand-response-capabilities-selected-appliances
Satish at the IEA’s 5th Global Conference on Energy Efficiency, 23rd June 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxrT7kwF8p0
Connect with our guests:
Find Satish at https://twitter.com/SatishEE
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
51:31
August 06, 2020

14: Thinking differently with Cheryl Desha
In Episode 14 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Associate Professor Cheryl Desha, Director, Engagement (Industry) in the School of Engineering & Built Environment at Griffith University. Luke and Cheryl discuss some of her key contributions to the national and global conversation around energy efficiency, and the continuing effort to build energy management skills and capability across the economy.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Natural Edge Project (TNEP) legacy site
https://research.qut.edu.au/tnep/
Factor Five (book)
https://research.qut.edu.au/tnep/books/factor-five/
Apple's 2030 carbon-neutral pledge covers itself and suppliers
https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-53485560
Energy Efficiency Education Resources for Engineering (EEERE)
https://research.qut.edu.au/eeere/
RACE for 2030 Co-operative Research Centre
https://www.racefor2030.net.au
Connect with our guest:
Find Cheryl at https://twitter.com/Cheryl_Desha
More of Cheryl's work: https://experts.griffith.edu.au/7119-cheryl-desha
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
58:08
July 30, 2020

13: Building back better with Davina Rooney
In Episode 13 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Davina Rooney, CEO of the Green Building Council of Australia, about maintaining a positive outlook in the midst of lockdown, the transition from the corporate world to the not-for-profit sector, and how we use this moment to build back better post COVID-19.
Mentioned in this episode:
3 Idiots (film)
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1187043/
Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council
https://www.asbec.asn.au
Building efficiency for jobs and growth (stimulus plan)
https://new.gbca.org.au/news/gbca-media-releases/building-efficiency-jobs-and-growth/
Connect with our guest:
Find Davina at https://twitter.com/rooney_davina
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/1280092
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
51:06
July 23, 2020

12: Enabling ecosystems with Bradley Anderson and Tennant Reed
In Episode 12 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Bradley Anderson from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and Tennant Reed from Australian Industry Group. They discuss a new report from a group of independent experts focused on ways of rapidly transforming the energy management market that supports Australian industry.
Apologies for the audio quality in this episode! We did our best in trying circumstances.
Mentioned in this episode:
Tennant’s sportsball analogy
https://youtu.be/V40eP1xekgo?t=85
Pivot, Rebound, Transform: A practical plan for rapidly transforming the energy management market that supports Australian industry
https://www.eec.org.au/news/eec-news/article/new-roadmap-supports-emissions-reduction-journey-for-aussie-industry
Connect with our guests:
Find Tennant at https://twitter.com/tennantreed
Find Brad at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-anderson-26614437/
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/1280092
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
And to find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:11:23
July 16, 2020

11: Renovating Europe with Adrian Joyce
In Episode 11 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Adrian Joyce, Secretary General of EuroACE and Campaign Director of Renovate Europe, about the growing momentum for making the so-called ‘renovation wave’ a central plank of Europe’s economic recovery post COVID-19.
Mentioned in this episode:
European Alliance of Companies for Energy Efficiency in Buildings (EuroACE)
https://euroace.org
Renovate Europe
https://www.renovate-europe.eu
Multiple benefits of investing in energy efficient renovation of buildings (Copenhagen Economics)
https://www.copenhageneconomics.com/dyn/resources/Publication/publicationPDF/8/198/0/Multiple%20benefits%20of%20EE%20renovations%20in%20buildings%20-%20Full%20report%20and%20appendix.pdf
Capturing the Multiple Benefits of Energy Efficiency (International Energy Agency)
https://www.iea.org/reports/multiple-benefits-of-energy-efficiency
Don't Even Think About It: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Ignore Climate Change
https://www.amazon.com.au/Dont-Even-Think-About-Climate/dp/163286102X
Building Renovation: a kick-starter for the EU economy (Buildings Performance Institute Europe)
https://www.renovate-europe.eu/2020/06/10/building-renovation-a-kick-starter-for-the-eu-economy/
Making the Renovation Wave a Success
https://www.renovate-europe.eu/about-the-campaign/preparing-the-renovation-wave/
Connect with our guests:
Find Adrian at https://twitter.com/adrian_joyce
Find Renovate Europe at https://twitter.com/renovateeurope
Find EuroACE at https://twitter.com/_euroace
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/1280092
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
59:14
July 09, 2020

10: Swiss army knife of stimulus with Michael Liebreich
In Episode 10 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Michael Liebreich, founder of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, about the crucial role of energy efficiency in the recovery post COVID-19. Recorded on 1 July 2020 as part of the National Summit: Energy Efficiency and Economic Recovery.
Mentioned in this episode:
National Summit: Energy efficiency and Australia's economic recovery (Youtube)
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEzC40kXieTz_TKDikWOA3PDLBQuiIDs
Recommendations of the Global Commission for Urgent Action on Energy Efficiency
https://www.iea.org/reports/recommendations-of-the-global-commission-for-urgent-action-on-energy-efficiency
Peak Emissions Are Closer Than You Think – and Here’s Why
https://about.bnef.com/blog/peak-emissions-are-closer-than-you-think-and-heres-why/
Energy Efficiency Key To Covid Recovery
https://about.bnef.com/blog/liebreich-energy-efficiency-key-to-covid-recovery/
World Energy Outlook Special Report on Sustainable Recovery
https://www.iea.org/reports/sustainable-recovery/a-sustainable-recovery-plan-for-the-energy-sector
Campaign page for an #EfficientRecovery
http://www.eec.org.au/EfficientRecovery
Connect with our guest:
Find Michael at https://twitter.com/@MLiebreich
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/1280092
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:00:50
July 02, 2020

9: Innovation and optimisation with Dr. Phil Blythe
In Episode 9 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Dr. Phil Blythe, who recently stepped down as Greensync’s Managing Director after founding the company in 2010. Luke and Phil discuss startup addiction, what’s changed in Australia’s energy market in the last decade (and what hasn’t), and the role of profound optimisation in charting a path to net zero.
Mentioned in this episode:
Australia’s National Hydrogen Strategy
https://www.industry.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-11/australias-national-hydrogen-strategy.pdf
‘Hydrogen economy’ report from BloombergNEF
https://about.bnef.com/blog/hydrogen-economy-offers-promising-path-to-decarbonization/
Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion Paper
https://consult.industry.gov.au/climate-change/technology-investment-roadmap/
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/1280092
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
50:33
June 26, 2020

8: Wholesale change with Craig Memery
In Episode 8 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Craig Memery from the Public Interest Advocacy Centre and the Council’s own Head of Policy Rob Murray-Leach.
Luke, Craig and Rob discuss the final determination on the Wholesale Demand Response Mechanism announced by the Australian Energy Market Commission last week, the history of this rule change, and what it will mean for the market and consumers.
Mentioned in this episode:
Wholesale demand response mechanism rule change
https://www.aemc.gov.au/rule-changes/wholesale-demand-response-mechanism
Towards a truly national and efficient energy market (The Parer Review)
http://www.efa.com.au/Library/ParerFinRpt.pdf
Post 2025 review
http://www.coagenergycouncil.gov.au/energy-security-board/post-2025
Rob analogy bingo
https://twitter.com/lukemenzel/status/1272792568623853571
Connect with our guests:
Find Craig at https://twitter.com/craigmemery
Find Rob at https://twitter.com/rmurrayleach
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EECouncil
Follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/1280092
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:04:37
June 18, 2020

7: Technology and trust with Rosemary Sinclair AM
In Episode 7 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel is joined by Rosemary Sinclair AM, current CEO of .au Domain Administration, and former CEO of Energy Consumers Australia.
Luke and Rosemary talk about her five years at Energy Consumers Australia, its role in moving consumer outcomes to the centre of Australia’s energy conversation, and the importance of building trust to enable the next generation of energy management technology.
Mentioned in this episode:
Foresighting Forum
Consumer Sentiment Survey
Power Shift report
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:01:26
June 11, 2020

6: Active efficiency with Andrew McAllister
In Episode 6 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Commissioner Andrew McAllister of the California Energy Commission about the multiple crises facing the US, how to leverage energy efficiency to stimulate the global economy and the importance of ‘active efficiency’ in the energy transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
California Energy Commission
https://www.energy.ca.gov
https://twitter.com/CalEnergy
The 2020 U.S. Energy & Employment Report
https://www.usenergyjobs.org
Governor Jerry Brown
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Brown
IEA webinar: The Role of Energy Efficiency in COVID Stimulus Packages
https://www.iea.org/events/the-role-of-energy-efficiency-in-covid-stimulus-packages
The Challenge of Retail Gas in California’s Low-Carbon Future (CEC Report)
https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/2019publications/CEC-500-2019-055/index.html
Active efficiency
https://www.ase.org/activeefficiency
Connect with us:
Find Luke on Twitter
https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council
www.eec.org.au
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
Listen live:
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:11:41
June 04, 2020

5: Catalysts for change with Alan Pears AM
In Episode 5 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Alan Pears AM, Senior Industry Fellow at RMIT University, about his lifelong passion for the demand side, the Australian Government’s Technology Investment Roadmap, and the reforms of policy, governance, regulation and incentives that would drive a genuine step change in energy efficiency.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Pears Report: Reflections on two decades of energy and climate policy
https://shop.ata.org.au/shop/pearscollection
Australia’s Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion Paper
https://www.industry.gov.au/news-media/australias-technology-investment-roadmap-have-your-say
Innovation to Improve Energy Productivity in the Food Value Chain
https://a2se.org.au/files/Reports/Innovation-to-Improve-Energy-Productivity-Food-Value-Chain-1.pdf
Connect with us:
Find Luke at https://twitter.com/lukemenzel
Find out more about the Energy Efficiency Council at www.eec.org.au
Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
Listen live:
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
01:03:10
May 28, 2020

4: Reviews and Roadmaps with Chloe Munro AO
In Episode 4 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Chloe Munro, Professorial Fellow at Monash University and Chair of the Energy Transition Hub’s Strategic Advisory Panel about a very big week in national energy and climate policy.
Mentioned in this episode:
The King Review
Australian Government response to the King Review
Australia's Technology Investment Roadmap: discussion paper
Finkel Review
Decarbonisation Futures
Wholesale demand response mechanism rule change
Listen live:
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of the First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
Contact us:
Questions? Comments? Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
01:13:08
May 21, 2020

3: COVID-19 and Aussie industry with Tennant Reed
In Episode 3 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Tennant Reed, Head of Climate, Energy and Environment Policy at Australian Industry Group, about how COVID-19 is impacting Australia's manufacturing sector and the opportunities to drive economic recovery alongside a clean energy transition.
Mentioned in this episode:
Tennant’s article on falling energy prices
Ai Group’s Performance of Manufacturing Index - April 2020
Innes Willox’s address to the Clean Energy Council's 'A Clean Recovery' summit
First Fuel Episode 2: Energy efficiency and economic stimulus with Brian Motherway
Listen live:
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of the First Fuel live, visit www.eec.org.au/podcasts
Contact us:
Questions? Comments? Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
58:15
May 18, 2020

2: Energy efficiency and economic stimulus with Dr. Brian Motherway
In Episode 2 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Dr. Brian Motherway, Head of Energy Efficiency at the International Energy Agency, about the role of energy efficiency in the economic stimulus packages being developed by governments in Australia and around the world.
Mentioned in this episode:
Global Commission for Urgent Action on Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency Market Report 2019 from the International Energy Agency
Energy Security Target and Safeguard Consultation Paper from the New South Wales Government
Global Energy Review 2020 from the International Energy Agency
Energy efficiency can boost economies quickly, with long-lasting benefits by Dr. Brian Motherway and Michael Oppermann
Listen live:
To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of the First Fuel live, visit eec.org.au/podcasts
Contact us:
Questions? Comments? Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
54:40
May 12, 2020

1: Decarbonisation Futures with Anna Skarbek
In Episode 1 of First Fuel, Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel talks to Anna Skarbek, CEO of ClimateWorks Australia, about Climateworks' seminal new report, Decarbonisation Futures. Mentioned in this episode: Decarbonisation Futures from Climateworks Australia United In Science from the World Meteorological Organization Renewable Integration Study from the Australian Energy Market Operator Energy Efficiency Employment in Australia from the Energy Efficiency Council Listen live: To find out how you can listen to an upcoming episode of the First Fuel live, visit eec.org.au/podcasts Contact us Questions? Comments? Email us at firstfuel@eec.org.au
42a0cfaf64ef3ca3377e36de51ce39f031955b87
54:15
May 06, 2020

0: Introducing First Fuel
The Energy Efficiency Council's podcast, First Fuel, brings you the latest perspectives on energy efficiency, energy management and demand response from Australia and around the world. In this brief, introductory episode the Council's CEO, Luke Menzel briefly covers what the podcast is about, and some of the guests that are coming up.
02:03
April 28, 2020