Gas conference criticises lack of policy on energy security, leading to calls for a 'road map'
By Gary Worrall | July 28, 2010
The 2010 SAE-A Gaseous Fuels Conference has heard the main barrier to the take up of alternative fuels is a marketing issue more than one of technology, leading to calls for a ‘road map’ for future strategy.
As part of this strategy, delegates say it is “unacceptable” that a developed country like Australia does not have an energy security policy despite regulations requiring business and individuals to be prepared for foreseen and unforeseen eventualities such as superannuation and compulsory insurance.
“Good governance should also include ensuring future energy security,” one delegate says.
Also under debate was the lack of locally developed Australian standards for new technology, with overseas standards being used instead despite a history of local standards being among the world’s best.
Delegates say that without an existing standard new technology cannot be introduced, which will lead to a situation where the would-be technology introducer must incur a large expense to develop a new standard.
The conference also acknowledged the need for a ‘brand champion’ to communicate the benefits of alternative fuels and answer objections to improve the overall acceptance of gas fuels rather than a fragmented approach.