Turning Expertise into Practical Energy Solutions
Dr Clyde Anderson
Dr Clyde Anderson
For Dr Clyde Anderson, becoming a Council on the Ageing Queensland Energy4Seniors Champion was a natural extension of the work he has spent much of his professional life doing. Through his business, Dr Anderson helps clients design and develop buildings that use less energy, so sharing that knowledge with older Queenslanders felt like a logical next step.
“I have a business helping clients create buildings that use less energy,” he explained. “Becoming an Energy Champion was a natural extension of my professional work.”
Helping People Discover Opportunities to Save
Dr Anderson believes that even small moments of engagement during Energy4Seniors sessions can make a real difference. When participants are curious and open to learning, they often discover new ways to manage their energy use and reduce household costs.
“For those who were engaged, there were genuine learnings and discoveries of opportunities to save energy costs,” he said.
His technical knowledge allows him to explain complex concepts in practical ways, helping seniors see how simple adjustments can make a meaningful impact.
A Real-World Example of Smart Energy Use
One example that stood out for Dr Anderson involved a couple on an older electricity tariff that included a maximum demand charge, a billing structure that can significantly affect electricity costs.
After discussing their energy use, the couple made some practical changes. They shifted high-energy activities, such as charging their electric vehicle and using their oven, to the middle of the day when demand charges would have less impact and solar generation could help offset consumption.
The conversation also prompted them to consider a longer-term plan: upgrading their small solar system and exploring the addition of batteries with AI-driven energy management.
“It was rewarding to see them thinking strategically about their energy use,” Dr Anderson said.
Connecting with Like-Minded Community Leaders
One of the most valuable aspects of the program for Dr Anderson has been the opportunity to connect with other Energy Champions from across Queensland.
“It’s been lovely to meet like-minded people,” he shared.
The experience has also influenced his own work. Dr Anderson has refined his Energy Savings webinars, which will soon be delivered under the banner of the Anglican Church of Southern Queensland, Parish of Milton, helping extend energy literacy to even more communities.
Sharing Knowledge Where It Matters Most
Dr Anderson recognises that the technical nature of energy systems means not everyone wants to understand the fine details, but many people want to know someone who does.
“The skills and knowledge involved are quite specific,” he explained. “Not everyone wants to know the details. They just want someone they can trust to explain it clearly.”
For this reason, he believes professional colleagues and specialists may also find the Energy4Seniors program valuable as a way to share knowledge with the wider community.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Awareness
Dr Anderson sees exciting opportunities to broaden the reach of energy education. He is currently exploring the possibility of writing articles for RACQ Magazine under its Sustainable Living section, which could bring practical energy advice to a much larger audience.
He also sees value in strengthening collaboration and making learning resources easier to access, ensuring that Energy Champions can continue supporting communities effectively.
Helping People Ask the Right Questions
Dr Anderson believes one of the biggest barriers seniors face is not knowing where to start.
“People are often overwhelmed,” he said. “They don’t even know what questions to ask.”
By helping people understand their options and guiding them through complex decisions, Dr Anderson is ensuring more Queenslanders feel confident taking control of their energy future.