The world’s foremost authorities on renewable energy will gather at Murdoch University in coming days to share ideas, present research, and discuss renewable energy science, technology, policy, and social issues.

Running from Sunday, December 4 to Friday, December 9, the 21^st World Renewable Energy Congress will this year focus on creating a pathway to economic recovery and climate change mitigation.

An impressive lineup of speakers includes renowned economist Professor Ross Garnaut, photovoltaics pioneer Professor Martin Green, sustainability expert Professor Peter Newman, climate powerhouse Professor Bill Hare, sustainable architecture pioneer Garry Baverstock, and World Renewable Energy Network director general, Professor Ali Sayigh.

The packed program begins on Sunday with a Future Homes Expo open to the public on Bush Court, and short courses and workshops covering hydrogen and lithium economy and technology, with the main activities starting on Monday.

Members of the Western Australian Parliament Dr Brad Pettitt MLC and Jessica Shaw MLA, and Federal member for Curtin, Kate Chaney MP will each present during the conference, as well as industry heavyweights and researchers from across Australia and overseas.

On Tuesday afternoon delegates will participate in one of two field trips: the first visiting exponents of clean energy from waves and battery power in Fremantle and Kwinana’s Big Battery; and the second looking at Murdoch’s ClearvuePV power-producing glasshouse, before visiting a renewable hydrogen energy hub and energy-from-food production centre in Jandakot.

Wednesday will round out the presentations and finish with a discussion about the UN Sustainable Development Goals featuring president of the UN Association of Australia, Randhir Amoganthan.

Technical tours on Thursday will take delegates to a wind farm, solar farm, and the Kwinana industrial area, and on Friday visitors have the opportunity to explore WA’s beautiful southwest on an overnight tour.

Congress Chair, and Chair of Environmental Engineering at Murdoch University, Dr Martin Anda, said the ongoing pandemic had presented many challenges but the goal of the Congress was to use these to generate new ideas and innovation.

“At no time has energy played a more crucial role in the development and wellbeing of nations than at present,” he said.

“The source and nature of energy, the security of supply and equity of distribution, and the environmental impact of its supply and utilisation are all crucial matters to be addressed by suppliers, consumers governments, industry, academia, and financial institutions.

“Renewable energy is the way for every nation to obtain clean energy and reduce the effects of global warming and climate change.

“It is a reality and not pretended, renewables are the cornerstone and foundation of a truly sustainable energy future.”

Further information about the World Renewable Energy Congress is available online, and you can keep up-to-date via the Congress Twitter and LinkedIn accounts.