Decarbonising Energy Supply in Remote and Islanded Communities – Norfolk Island Case Study

Incite Energy is successfully transforming Norfolk Island's energy system, which now serves as a model for remote and edge-of-grid communities that faced high energy supply costs and fossil fuel dependence. The initiative was designed to reduce diesel consumption, increase renewable energy penetration, and lower electricity costs while empowering the community to adopt energy-efficient practices.

The project utilised dynamic tariffs, policy reform, and the BESY Energy Platform to ensure network stability, optimise economic benefits, and integrate consumer energy resources (e.g., batteries, solar). Key outcomes achieved to date include:

• A 15% uptake in solar and battery solutions in just 14 months resulting in a 30% increase in renewable energy contribution.
• A 15% reduction in electricity costs for the community as a whole
• A 30% decrease in diesel usage, with associated electricity supply cost saving
• Enhanced system operator control and community electrification.

Learnings from this successful initiative continue to inform strategies for decarbonisation and electrification in other remote communities, demonstrating the importance of community engagement, bespoke solutions, and a holistic approach to renewable integration.

Speakers

Greg is Managing Director of Incite Energy, where he is one of a team of experts in the energy transition.  Incite Energy advise governments and regulators, work with electricity and gas sector investors, owners and operators, to design and deliver the renewable generation, network and supporting infrastructure needed to decarbonise. He has over 25 years of experience in the energy and infrastructure sectors, spanning business leadership, governance, and regulation in high growth, complex and rapidly changing environments. His career includes stints with Western Power and Worley, and he was also Chair of the Sustainable Energy Association of Australia.