In July, Standards Australia had the pleasure of hosting Ulrika Francke - President of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Ulrika travelled to Sydney at the invitation of the Australian government to speak at the
Sydney Energy Forum.
The Forum was a heavyweight invitation only event, attracting political, business and scientific leaders from around the world.
Ulrika delivered an important message on how standards can help deliver a well-functioning, clean energy market.
Ulrika detailed ISO's work in advancing several key energy initiatives, including hydrogen technologies and net zero principles. With conflict threatening energy security globally, it was a timely message. Ulrika also noted the importance of collaboration - between ISO, the UN and other organisations.
While she was in Australia, Ulrika joined Standards Australia in meeting with the Hon. Jenny McAllister, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy. This valuable meeting addressed the importance of international standards system in the context of the world trade in hydrogen.
Both the Sydney Energy Forum and subsequent meetings were a prime example of the crucial role that standards, and indeed Standards Australia, play in important initiatives that build nations and economies.
Standards Australia currently has several important projects underway in this area:
- Using hydrogen for energy could add up to $26 billion a year to Australia’s GDP and more than 16,000 jobs by 2050. As part of our Hydrogen Strategy, we are developing standards and other resources to support the emergence and growth of this important sector
- Our Critical Emerging Technologies (CET) initiative will address the speed-to-market challenge for energy (and other sectors) by ensuring guidance keeps pace with technological development
- We are developing Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) guides so organisations can more easily achieve their goals in this important area, such as greener energy
Ulrika's visit was an opportunity for us to reaffirm our organisations’ mutual commitment - as the Australian member of ISO, Standards Australia supports a strong and well-functioning global organisation.
This is a commitment and task that could not be realised without the efforts and contributions from our many Members, stakeholders and staff.
The efforts of many people ensure our voice is heard in decision-making at a global level, and we will continue to work with ISO to provide solutions, maintain relevance and advance our important work.
Standards Australia has considerable, and exciting, work in the fields of energy and international standardisation on the way.