Simon’s more than 20 years of experience has been focused on public policy leadership, governance and delivery. He most recently worked with the Victorian Government, where he served as the Victorian Renewable Energy Advocate.
In this role he advised on the development of the Victorian Renewable Energy Auction Scheme, with a strong focus on economic development and community engagement outcomes. He was also closely involved in instigating the Bulgana Green Power Hub project in north west Victoria.From 2008-2016, Simon was the Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Energy Environment and Climate Change of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
He advocated and successfully implemented the ACT’s climate change action plan, its program to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2020 and Australia’s first reverse auction for large scale renewable generation. The successful implementation of these programs has led to national and international recognition, making the ACT a best practice jurisdiction.
“Joining Energy Estate full time gives me the opportunity to focus my experience and perspective from two decades of policy and project development in sustainability and renewables into a range of projects and programs across the country and internationally. The opportunity with Energy Estate is about a new way to have impact in the renewables and climate sector. I am excited by, and grateful for, the opportunity to work with such an experienced, capable and enthusiastic team.” Simon Corbell said.
In his new role, Simon will bring his experience to Energy Estate as an advisor to stakeholders and will continue to champion the energy transition through a broader focus on zero net emissions, urban sustainability, distributed energy and the evolution of the transport sector. He will continue to advise the Green Building Council of Australia and the Business Renewables Centre in a voluntary capacity. Simon will continue his roles as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Canberra, Honorary Associate Professor at the ANU and a Patron of the Australian Smart Energy Council.
“The renewable energy sector in Australia is reaching new levels of sophistication. Governments, investors, corporates and communities are looking to navigate the energy transition. Simon’s depth of government policy experience and industry leadership will assist stakeholders to navigate that transition and take advantage of the ongoing integration of renewables into mainstream energy supply in Australia,” said Vincent Dwyer, principal at Energy Estate.
Simon Currie, principal at Energy Estate, said, “Simon Corbell is recognised as one of the world’s leading advocates for renewable energy and sustainability. He formulated the ground-breaking policies that catapulted the ACT into the global spotlight, setting a high bar for other jurisdictions. Simon is a changemaker, we are ecstatic to have him on board full time.”