Transforming energy productivity through value chains : Final report of opportunity assessment for research theme B1

This Opportunity Assessment is a scoping study to determine what is currently understood about Transforming energy productivity through value chains and therefore guide where RACE for 2030 should focus its research efforts. The purpose of the project was to identify research priorities through investigating opportunities to reduce energy use in Australia industry, beginning with analysis of trends in productivity and energy. This Opportunity Assessment was also informed by considering the role of society, government, institutions and economic factors in the mainstream adoption of innovations. These factors are set out in theories of socio-technical transitions, which provide a framework for understanding how changes to socially dominant systems, processes and actions occur. In the context of the project, these theories indicate that more than technological developments are required for a shift to more energy-productive industry. Business models, policy, education systems, societal preferences and supporting infrastructure may all need to change to enable transitions to occur. After series of Industry Reference Group meetings, workshops, literature review, policy and desktop research of value chain reviews, market status, technologies, transformations and energy productivity opportunities. The project identified two priority areas for further research - food systems and shelter for the four opportunities - food transparency, reducing food waste, innovative building materials and design and building performance transparency.