Australia Energy Transition Briefing Series: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Energy

The energy transition presents a US$72 to US$117 trillion investment opportunity, depending on the pace of decarbonisation. And regardless of pace, it entails a complex web of interconnected – and sometimes competing – technologies.

Globally, energy demand remains strong due to rising income and population and a surge in AI and data centres growth. While renewable energy deployment is increasing, particularly in China, the transition is slower than expected in many sectors and regions. Geopolitics, protectionism and grid bottlenecks risk delaying the transition further, with continued reliance on fossil fuels systems. Governments are in a bind as consumers demand economic security and price stability above all else.

Topics for discussion:

• The changing landscape of disclosures that impact industry in Australia and beyond.
• Who is leading new technologies development: China, US, or Europe?
• Staying power of fossil fuels: what pathways can we expect in a 2C or 1.5C world?
• Investment required for Australia to reach net zero by 2050