Conflict between climate, energy and water policies: lessons from the United States (Melbourne)

2 June 2011

Michael Webber introduced the climate, energy and water nexus with particular reference to the situation in Texas, a jurisdiction of similar dimensions to Australia and with similar climate, energy and water challenges. He outlined the limits to new fossil, nuclear and renewable energy generation due to water scarcity, and the energy demand implications of supplementing water supplies. A. Prof. Webber concluded by outlining examples of potential knowledge, technological and regulatory solutions to the climate, energy and water nexus from Texas and the United States more broadly, and gave his thoughts on priority policy measures.

Michael leads the Webber Energy Group, which aims to bridge the divide between policymakers and engineers and scientists on issues related to energy and the environment (with a primary focus on the nexus between energy and water). Michael's work spans science, engineering and policy, integrating policy from the climate change, energy and water spheres to develop mechanisms to deliver multiple benefits for society.

Michael is based at the University of Texas, Austin, where he is Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Associate Director of the Center for International Energy and Environmental Policy in the Jackson School of Geosciences and Co-Director of the Clean Energy Incubator at the Austin Technology Incubator. Michael also has a background in national security at the RAND Corporation.

This event was presented by the Crawford School of Economics and Government, ANU and the US Studies Centre. The event was hosted by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering in Melbourne.