Energy crusader hoping to spark change in Newcastle

City of Newcastle is leading the charge towards a net zero emissions city, inviting world renowned entrepreneur, author, and inventor Dr Saul Griffith to share his passion for power with Novocastrians.

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The free event known as Electrify Everything will take place at City Hall on 25 July where the community will learn about an ambitious action plan to electrify Newcastle, while creating new jobs and a healthier environment.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Dr Griffith has inspired communities across the USA and Australia.

"City of Newcastle is committed to achieving net zero emissions so we're incredibly fortunate to have Dr Griffith visiting our city," Cr Nelmes said.

"Among his long list of achievements, he created and led the non-profit organisation Rewiring America that helped to shape the US Inflation Reduction Act, the largest ever investment in energy transition and electrification in the world.

"Inviting Dr Griffith to our city aligns with a top priority from our Newcastle Environment Strategy, which is delivering community and business engagement programs that focus on renewable energy and electrification."

Dr Griffith said electrifying our cars and our homes is the critical action all Australians can take this decade that will save money and our children's future.

"I'm always energised after meeting passionate community groups driving change in the climate and energy space," Dr Griffith said.

"We need community initiatives like this where local leaders are encouraging residents to be part of the solution to achieving a clean energy future.

"Communities have the most to benefit from an electrified future powered by our abundant solar energy - local jobs, healthier streets and lower energy bills.

"Households and small businesses are the heroes of this energy transition. It's time Australia had an energy system that put them first."

The evening will be part of a series of three events called Empowering Newcastle to be held at City Hall across July and August.

On 8 August, City of Newcastle will host a roundtable to discuss electric vehicles and low emissions transport.

A host of stakeholders will be invited, including Transport for NSW, the Australian Electric Vehicle Association, the University of Newcastle, Business Hunter and Port of Newcastle to discuss the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to electric vehicles and low emissions transport in Newcastle.

On 17 August City of Newcastle will invite the community to join NSW Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Heritage Minister Penny Sharpe and the Lord Mayor to hear about the renewable energy transformation in the Hunter and opportunities for all residents to be part of our net zero future.

"City of Newcastle is committed to achieving net zero with measures such as an accelerated uptake of solar and batteries, electric or zero emissions transport and buildings, as well as community renewable energy and battery storage projects," Cr Nelmes said.

"We want to empower the people and business owners in Newcastle to be part of the solution to climate change."

To secure tickets visit https://www.trybooking.com/CSVXK