Energy Climate Resilience

This case study considers how, as our energy systems transform from fossil fuels to renewable generation and demand increases, their exposure to climate risk can be assessed and managed.

Australia’s energy systems – electricity, gas and liquid fuels – are exposed to climate impacts. These can affect extraction and production systems, how energy is distributed to homes and businesses, and downstream affects on customers. For example, extreme heat increases demand for electricity at the same time as it reduces efficiencies of supply, raising costs to consumers and increasing the risk of outages. Furthermore, indirect risks are created by markets and regulatory frameworks that don’t incentivise or reward mitigation efforts.

This project investigates current system vulnerabilities and exposure to climate hazards, and whether they might be exacerbated (or dampened) with projected future changes in climate. It provides recommendations to strengthen the resilience of energy systems at the community and precinct level.

This project was commissioned by the Department of Climate Change, Energy Efficiency, and Water (DCCEEW), and was co-funded by DCCEEW and CSIRO.

The project report will be available soon.