Pre-Conference Workshops
Future Flextalk: Connecting the Dots and Planning Next Steps!
Date: Tuesday 10 September
Time: 9.00am - 1.00pm
Venue: Dobson Rooms 1&2, Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch
Join the FlexTalk team and experts from Australia’s RACE for 2030, EA Technology and FlexForum to help shape the future of energy flexibility in Aotearoa.
In the first half of the workshop, we will present what’s happening in this space locally and internationally and what we have learnt from others’ adoption of flexibility. Our international experts including Bill Lilley (RACE for 2030) and Yogendra Vashishtha (EA Technology) will share how their nations have transitioned to a more flexible energy system, while Brian Fitzgerald from EECA and FlexForum will brings us up-to-date with activity happening in New Zealand.
In the second half, we want to hear your thoughts on our plans for the next FlexTalk trial which will focus on the integration of smart devices into New Zealand’s energy system. We will be seeking your input into designing scenarios and grid configurations.
A light lunch will be provided following the workshop.
Streamlining Connections
Date: Tuesday 10 September
Time: 1.45pm - 5.00pm
Venue: Dobson Rooms 1&2, Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch
Join the Streamlining Connections team and experts from across the industry to help improve the efficiency of network connections of distributed energy resources (DER) and load across Aotearoa.
It has been identified that there are currently challenges for prospective proponents wanting to connect new DER or large loads to distribution networks across Aotearoa, New Zealand. These issues include inconsistencies in connection processes between networks and a lack of clarity for proponents.
As a result, the Electricity Authority (EA) are collaborating with the Electricity Networks Aotearoa (ENA) and the Electricity Engineers Association (EEA) on the Streamlining Connections Programme to improve the consistency and efficiency of network connections across the country. This includes, reviewing and updating Part 6 of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010, establishing standardised technical settings and requirements for connection; and establishing common connection processes to be used by all EDBs. This work does not include connection pricing.
In this workshop, we will outline the combined work plan of this project and we will be seeking your input and thoughts on our proposed work and any potential issues we should consider adding to our project to improve the connection process for DER and large loads into the New Zealand’s energy system.
Young Professionals Networking Event
Date: Tuesday 10 September
Time: 4.45pm - 5.30pm
Venue: Dobson Room 4, Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch
As part of the EEA Conference, we are organising a Networking Event for our young professionals.
If you have been in your career for less than five years or are under the age of 35 years, then join us to meet new peers and colleagues from across the industry. Drinks and nibbles will be provided.
Then, carry onto the official Conference opening and social function from 5:30pm!
Breakfast - Powering Inclusion: Building a Workforce for the Future
Date: Wednesday 11 September
Time: 7.00am - 8:50am
Venue: Dobson Rooms 2&3, Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch
Following last year's highly successful panel discussion on diversity, we are hosting another session at this year's conference - Building a Workforce for the Future.
This year our breakfast session is hosted in partnership with Mana Wāhine | Power Women.
We have a great lineup of speakers including Northpower's Capability Manager MacKenzie Ashby; Transpower's Executive General Manager Operations, Chantelle Bramley; and Electronet's Regional Business Manager Cameron Chapman.
After a short presentation from each panellist, it will be over to the audience for questions before we all join in the official opening of Conference.
A light grab-n-go breakfast will be provided.