This highly anticipated lunch saw Antonia Trumbull (Schneider Electric Buildings), Ross De Rango (Electric Vehicle Council), Steve Edwell (Economic Regulation Authority) and moderator Beth Morris (BGIS) deliver a robust conversation changing the way attendees think about EVs, batteries and alternative energy.
Some key takeaways from the event included:
- Addressing previous insurance challenges for EV’s, the panel noted that securing insurance for EVs has become more streamlined and similar now to petrol cars.
- Misconceptions around EV fire safety are being debunked, as EVs have a lower fire risk compared to conventional petrol cars. Firefighting techniques for EVs are similar to those for traditional vehicles.
- Electrifying buildings is crucial, although challenges like cost and lease commitments need to be managed. Preparing for the future involves addressing infrastructure needs, power management adjustments, and capacity concerns.
- The issue of non-recyclable EV waste is being tackled through economically viable recycling of materials like lithium iron batteries. Recycling efforts of EV batteries have proven successful over East, indicating a significant opportunity for WA.
- While hydrogen is a promising fuel source, its efficiency loss during production is a challenge. Its potential application might extend beyond road transportation.
- Alternative EVs, like e-scooters, are part of the sustainability landscape. Questions about safety and health impacts will being addressed through regulation and rule-setting.
- Coal’s future is uncertain, given its lack of cost-effectiveness and the changing energy landscape.
- WA’s abundant lithium reserves provide a massive economic opportunity in the transition to EVs. Nuclear energy will face political and economic challenges in Australia.
- To prepare for the future it is vital to ensure you understand the requirements and speak to the experts in the field to address questions or concerns.
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our sponsors Lavan and Urbis
