Victoria is undertaking a once-in-a-generation energy transition as it works towards reaching 95 per cent renewable energy generation by 2035 and net zero by 2045.

The state’s independent regulator Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) will play a pivotal role in that transition ensuring the safety of community and workers as we undertake this vital shift.

These safety considerations will be front and centre for ESV’s new Commissioner and Chairperson Monique Conheady. The experienced leader begins her five-year term on 1 August.

Ms Conheady joins the all-female commission and will work closely with Deputy Chairperson and Commissioner Michelle Groves and Commissioner Sarah McDowell on the three-member ESV Commission.

A proven leader in the energy sector Ms Conheady brings strong regulatory governance expertise and technical qualifications in civil and environmental engineering to the role.

Currently chair of Cremorne Digital Hub, Ms Conheady is driving growth of Victoria’s digital ecosystem. She is also non-executive director of the Environmental Protection Authority Victoria, formerly chair of the Commercial Passenger Vehicles Victoria, and formerly deputy chair of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.

Ms Conheady has extensive experience in the private sector as the co-founder and CEO of the award-winning carshare business, Flexicar, as well as being a co-founder, director and deputy chair of DC Power Co, an electricity retailer focused on solar households.

Ms Conheady has valuable experience in developing energy technologies, specifically electric vehicle charging, as chair of JET Charge, which supplies and installs electric vehicle (EV) chargers.

ESV’s role includes overseeing industry’s safety management schemes, safety cases and safety plans for the design, construction and maintenance of Victoria’s electricity, gas and pipeline networks, and regulating compliance with legislation covering bushfire mitigation, appliances, installations, and energy efficiency.

The Andrews Labor Government is also making sure the safety of electrical workers and households are protected by updating the energy safety legislation keeps pace with rapidly evolving technology.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“Ms Conheady brings exceptional public and private sector board experience in developing technologies for the energy transition that will be vital for Energy Safe Victoria as more renewable technologies enter our daily lives.”

“The safety of our energy systems is a high priority, and Energy Safe Victoria plays a key role in ensuring the safety of Victorians as we work towards net zero by 2045.”

Quote attributable to Commissioner and Chairperson of Energy Safe Victoria Monique Conheady

“The safety of Victorians and our energy systems is paramount, and I am proud to be able to contribute as Energy Safe Victoria plays a key role in the state’s once-in-a-generation transition to renewables.”