Several major events in the energy industry have been rescheduled or postponed with dates TBA due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
The Smart Energy Conference & Exhibition (originally April 7-8) has now been pushed back to September 29-30.
The Energy Efficiency Council has postponed the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2020 (originally May 26-27) to a revised date to be confirmed in the second half of 2020.
The Smart Energy Council said while it regrets to announce the change due to the coronavirus situation, the safety of visitors, exhibitors and sponsors is of primary concern.
“We have listened to the World Health Organisation (WHO) which has declared a global pandemic, the advice from the Australian Government, and the NSW Premier’s comments on 11 March foreshadowing potential restrictions to large public events in NSW,” The Smart Energy Council said in a statement.
“We have been very fortunate to secure dates for our event later this year.
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“This will be a busy time for large events in the smart energy calendar, however we know the industry will be keen to get back to work and showcase their businesses and success stories as soon as possible.”
The Energy Efficiency Council said it is working with its partners to determine a revised date for the conference in the second half of 2020.
In the meantime, it will be reopening early bird conference tickets and extending the closing date for submissions to the National Energy Efficiency Awards.
Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel said like organisations across the country, the Energy Efficiency Council is monitoring health advice on coronavirus closely and putting sensible risk management measures in place for its staff and all of its public-facing activities.
“At this stage we are proceeding with smaller events such as training. However, a full credit (for use at future Council training or events) will be provided to any person unable to attend as a result of feeling unwell and needing to self-isolate in accordance with the latest public health guidelines,” he said.
“As an organisation we have a particular focus on energy and carbon issues, however those conversations don’t happen in a vacuum. The immediate task for Australian families and businesses is to navigate the dual challenges – bushfires and pandemic – that have marked the start of this year.
“Our thoughts are with the victims of both crises, and we’ll be doing what we can to support the broader community effort to ensure we all emerge on the other side stronger than ever.”
