A new energy model is putting people at the centre of the energy transition.
As the world moves towards sustainable energy, the way households use power is becoming more important than ever. But while the energy sector has traditionally relied on industry-driven forecasts, a crucial question remains: how can we ensure energy planning truly reflects the needs, behaviours, and choices of real consumers?
The Scenarios for Future Living (SFL) project, led by RACE for 2030 CRC, is set to transform energy planning in Australia. Unlike conventional models that focus on large-scale industry projections, SFL places households at the heart of energy transition strategies – helping shape a future where energy systems align with how people actually live, work, and consume energy.
A people-centered approach to the energy transition
Traditional energy models rely on industry projections, but SFL takes a different approach – prioritising the choices, habits, and behaviours of everyday Australians.
By combining household monitoring, advanced modelling, and behavioural analysis, SFL aims to create more accurate forecasts and drive consumer-focused energy innovations.
To tackle critical challenges, the project is structured into seven Work Packages, covering:
- household and home business qualitative research
- emerging technology innovation and development
- scenario innovation and development
- modelling tools and processes
- people-centred products and services
- The Australian Energy Transition Forum
- scaling, translating, and sustaining socio-technical knowledge.
Bridging the gap between industry and everyday life
"I'm thrilled to be contributing to Scenarios for Future Living, a project that bridges the gap between industry visions of our energy future and real household experiences," said Chris Riedy, Associate Director Learning and Development at the UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF).
As part of the project, ISF will convene an Australian Energy Transition Forum, bringing together stakeholders from across the energy sector to explore the future of energy through imaginative fore-sighting methods.
"The Forum will connect industry forecasts with customer values and expectations, helping the energy sector better anticipate and respond to future uncertainties," Riedy said.
I'm thrilled to be contributing to Scenarios for Future Living, a project that bridges the gap between industry visions of our energy future and real household experiences.
– Chris Riedy, ISF
What will future living look like?
With deep collaboration between industry leaders, researchers, and households, SFL is not just about predicting the future – it’s about actively designing an energy system that meets real consumer needs.
By integrating consumer insights, real-time monitoring, and advanced modelling, SFL will improve forecasting, support smarter decision-making, and inspire innovation in energy products and services.
With strong collaboration between industry and research, this project will help shape a net zero future – one that reflects how Australians truly use and experience energy in their daily lives.