First-of-its-kind research project to help energy grid plug into future needs

Paul Eyers
By Paul Eyers
3 Min Read

A Monash University study on how emerging technologies will impact our future home energy needs has been awarded the top gong at the Australian Good Design Awards.

Commonly known as the Good Design Tick, the prestigious accolade is the most esteemed and recognised design endorsement symbol nationwide.

Monash University’s Digitial Energy Futures project picked up the Gold Winner accolade for its research into the future energy needs of Australian households. 

Designed in collaboration with industry partners Ausgrid, AusNet Services and Energy Consumers Australia, the three-year, $2.3 million research project is the most extensive sociological study of energy demand and consumers’ energy futures ever conducted nationwide.

The research aims to understand and forecast changing digital lifestyle trends, identify their impact on future household electricity demand, and investigate how changing social practices will impact electricity sector planning.

Almost 200 residential energy consumers will take part in the in-depth research, with analysed activities including charging and mobility; cooking and eating; healthy indoor air and thermal comfort; living and play; working and studying from home; caring for the home and its occupants; and making, saving, storing and shifting energy.


DEF project five key objectives 

Monash University Design Department Head Professor Gene Bawden spoke highly of the university’s impressive performance at the awards, picking up 12 titles overall.

“I am incredibly proud of our staff and students, who continue to demonstrate excellence in designing solutions that address real-world challenges,” he said. 

Gene Bawden profile photo
Professor Bawden said the project was an example of the university’s ability to design innovative solutions to societal problems.

“This year’s award-winners have gone above and beyond in designing innovative solutions that tackle some of the most pressing issues in our society.” 

“The awards demonstrate the strength and breadth of the design practice and research — and the richness of collaboration — undertaken at Monash and our competitiveness with the broader Australian design industry.”

If successful, the project could bring significant benefits to the energy sector and consumers by improving energy forecasting and planning, potentially lowering infrastructure costs and ensuring affordable, equitable, and sustainable energy solutions for Australian households.

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Paul Eyers has worked as a journalist for a range of media publishers including News Corp and Network Ten. He has also worked outside of Australia, including time spent with ABS-CBN in the Philippines. Stepping away from the media, Paul spent five years sharpening his tools in construction - building his skill set and expertise within the trade industry. His diverse experiences and unique journey have equipped him with an insider view of Australia’s construction game to dig deep into the big stories.