Leading local energy retailer ActewAGL and the Canberra Innovation Network are partnering for the virtual Zero Emissions Transport (ZET) Hackathon in November. The hackathon will attract Australia’s most innovative minds and challenge them to develop ground-breaking solutions that will accelerate adoption and accessibility of zero emissions transport.

Transport is the largest and fastest growing source of emissions globally. In Canberra, 60% of greenhouse emissions are from transportation alone, with privately-owned transportation being the single biggest contributor.

The transport sector is a complex system and is the fastest growing and third largest source of emissions in Australia.

James Dunlop, Group Manager New Energy, ActewAGL said “As a truly local organisation we’re a driving force for zero-emission transport within the capital region. We are currently leading the REVS project, an investigation into vehicle-to-grid services within the ACT and are in the final stages of construction for our hydrogen refuelling station. For our hackathon, we have a strong panel of experts to inspire, inform and instruct the teams throughout the event, with the specialist assistance of the Canberra Innovation Network.”

Zero emissions vehicles like hydrogen and electric-powered cars offer clean, emission-free alternatives to traditional combustion engines vehicles. Community and Government adoption of zero emission vehicles will play a pivotal role in getting not only the ACT’s carbon emissions to net-zero by 2045, but also driving down Australia’s total emissions. There is also a need to innovate how we implement smart vehicle-to-grid systems in order to accelerate transition to renewable electricity in our industries and communities.

This online hackathon will empower teams across Australia to develop and pitch innovative projects that fast-track the accessibility of zero emission transportation to test in the ACT. These solutions can include policy, new technology, vehicle-to-grid options, innovative financial models and charging infrastructure.

CEO of the Canberra Innovation Network, Petr Adamek said “Hackathons stimulate novel solution development in ways that leads to growth of new innovative businesses. Canberra has proven to be a hotbed when it comes to conceptualising and testing innovation, providing the perfect platform for this innovation challenge.”

“We are excited to be delivering this hackathon with ActewAGL and working towards a common goal for Canberra to be recognised globally as a clever, connected and creative city, where science and research meets innovation and entrepreneurship” said Petr Adamek.

Winning teams will compete for a $10,000 prize pool and invited to participate in a 12-week incubation program that includes intensive mentoring and coaching to trial the concepts in the ACT.

The program will create the foundations for the teams to turn their pilots into a viable business and be facilitated by the Canberra Innovation Network.

The virtual hackathon will take place between the 9 –13 November and teams are encouraged to register through our events page.