Beyond Megawatts: Embedding Biodiversity in Energy System Planning
Description:
As Australia accelerates toward net zero, large‑scale renewables and transmission must be delivered in ways that minimise impacts on biodiversity. In this masterclass, we will explore how integrating biodiversity protection into national energy system planning is achievable, and how targeted avoidance of high‑value biodiversity areas delivers major conservation benefits at very small projected impacts on electricity costs.
We also examine the land footprint of renewables and transmission in a net zero system, finding it is small compared to other land uses. Taken together these insights highlight the value of early, strategic planning.
What you will take away:
- Insight into how biodiversity can be integrated into energy system planning
- Understanding of the conservation benefits of avoiding high‑value biodiversity areas
- Perspectives on the land footprint of renewables and transmission in a net zero system
- Appreciation of the role of early, strategic planning in balancing energy and environmental outcomes.
Event details
Date: Thursday 11 June 2026
Time: 5.30pm - 7.00pm
Location: 1M16 Teaching Suite, UQ Brisbane City Campus
Audience: Future students, current students, alumni, industry and community