Revolutionising home energy with heat pumps: Paving the path to a renewable future

This event is organised by the volunteers of the Melbourne Renew Members’ Branch

Join the Melbourne Branch to hear from Matthew Wright as he delves into the transformative potential of heat pumps, a ground-breaking technology which is revolutionising how we heat our homes and how we generate domestic hot water. 

Using his extensive background in sustainable energy, Matthew will navigate the multitude of choices available for heat pump hot water heaters and air conditioning systems—vital components of the transition away from gas. Whether you're contemplating the merits of single-phase or three-phase power or determining the optimal capacity for your all-electric home, Matthew can provide clarity. Furthermore, he'll address practical aspects such as installation cost-effectiveness, efficiency, smart controllers and Wi-Fi control. He will also discuss the recovery time and energy consumption of heat pump systems compared to traditional gas heating, providing economic insights for those considering a transition. As we chart a course toward a more sustainable future, Matthew's talk will serve as a guiding light, steering us toward greener and more efficient energy solutions. 

We'll then hear a talk by Howard Elston who lives with his partner Libby in a Sustainable House that has won three sustainability awards. They have done extensive research into the running and performance of their house and they run a Webpage -Our Green Home Building Adventure. Howard will talk about his experiences with the system and both speakers will take questions.

Speakers

Matthew Wright

Matthew is a trailblazer in the realm of sustainable energy. After obtaining a Masters of Engineering in Sustainable Energy from RMIT, he has been a driving force in a number of influential sustainability activities. These include the FutureEnergy pro-wind and solar campaign, the Get Off Gas campaign and the Beyond Zero Emissions group. Matthew co-founded Pure Electric Solutions which is dedicated to the transition to a 100% renewable energy economy, powered by rooftop solar and grid-sourced renewables.

Howard Elston

Howard is a convenor withthe Melbourne Branch. Howard has been working on energy conservation and sustainable living practices for many years, through his two careers of chemical engineering and teaching. Helping students to understand the importance of living in a sustainable way has focused his attention on doing more than talking about the principles. Helping to create a home that uses the latest ideas is the best way to learn what is available and gain experience that can be shared with his students and the wider school community.

Tickets and attendance:

• This is a free event, but a gold coin donation on entry is appreciated to cover ongoing branch costs.
• Please note that this is an in-person event only. 
• Tickets are limited and registration is essential - get in quick!
• Details on Building 80, access and transport options available here