A meta-methodological systems exploration to inform the energy transition
Conference
Title
A meta-methodological systems exploration to inform the energy transition
Abstract
This presentation applied an holistic systems-of-systems approach to energy decarbonisation, recognising the need to balance greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction with broader national development priorities. The presentation advocates for a whole-of-systems perspective in development and application of emissions reduction strategies, such that emission reductions are effective without compromising other critical economic, social, and infrastructure outcomes. This approach reinforces the importance of integrated modelling and systems thinking in navigating complex, large-scale transitions.
Key takeaways:
- From a systems practice perspective, it is vital to consider the energy transition from the appropriate level of the systems hierarchy: the level of the National Energy Market, which includes the people that rely on it and the grid that supports it, not just electricity generation.
- As the Australian electricity system is transitioning from carbon-intensive energy sources to renewable energy, there are a range of issues to be addressed to ensure that the required electricity services satisfy stakeholder needs and satisfy constraints relating to security of supply, affordability, reliability, resilience, environmental sustainability, economic viability, regulatory compliance, and social acceptability.
- Systems engineers can help analyse the interactions across natural and human systems to inform and shape the development of mitigation approaches that address the tradeoffs in feasibility, cost and benefits.
- The forthcoming INCOSE Tradecraft Guide proved effective surfacing the range of issues to be addressed and in identifying suitable methodologies to inform the transition, namely System-of-Systems Governance and the Wave Model.
Authors
Professor Stephen Cook FIEAust CPEng NER, INCOSE Fellow, Senior Principal Systems Engineer, Shoal Group, and President Elect, INCOSE
Dr Mark Unewisse MIEAust CPEng NER, Systems Engineering Advisor, Shoal Group
Matthew Wylie MBA CPEng CSEP, Head of Engineering, Shoal Group
Date
Thursday 18 June 2026
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About Shoal
Shoal is complex systems design company. We use Systems Engineering combined with Modelling, Simulation and Analysis to help our clients define, analyse, decide, optimise, and deliver technology-intensive projects in complex environments across Defence, Space, Transport, Energy and Infrastructure.
In 2026, Shoal celebrates 25 years of applying systems thinking to complex challenges.
More: shoalgroup.com
Contact
Matthew Wylie
Head of Engineering, Shoal Group
[email protected]
