11 February 2013
_____________________________________________________
Conference: Energy innovation for a sustainable society
A two-day conference hosted by Victoria University and the National Energy Research Institute (NERI) from 12–14 February
has attracted world-class keynote speakers.
Energy at the Crossroads: Energy Innovation for a Sustainable Society provides an opportunity for dialogue between energy researchers, industry and government regarding future research needs
and how to enhance these important relationships.
The conference will include speeches and presentations from leading international and New Zealand-based experts and
practitioners on a wide range of energy issues and opportunities.
The following keynote speakers are available to speak to media:
• Michael Bennetts, Chief Executive of Z Energy: Existing Paradox or New Paradigm—Fossil Fuels and Sustainability
• Rawiri Faulkner, General Manager—Māori Strategy, Te Pu Ao—GNS Science:
Power to the People—The Emerging Energy Opportunities within Māori Communities
• George Gross, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Illinois: Facing the Challenges to Make the Transmission Build-out Reality
Other keynote speakers include Professor Philippa Howden-Chapman, Director of He Kainga Oranga / Housing and Health,
University of Otago; Professor John Loughhead, Executive Director of the UK Energy Research Centre; Dr Janet Stephenson,
Director of the Centre for Sustainability at the University of Otago; and Professor Ralph Sims, Professor of Sustainable
Energy and Director of the Centre for Energy Research at Massey University.
To arrange an interview, please contact Haley Small, Victoria University Assistant Communications Adviser, by emailing haley.small@vuw.ac.nz or phoning (04) 463 5105 or 027 563 5105.
For programme details visit http://www.theenergyconference.org.nz/programme.html
ENDS