The Human Side of Energy with Prof. Yolande Stengers
Professor Yolande Strengers, Research Director at Monash Energy Institute and expert in digital sociology, challenges everything we think we know about smart homes and the energy transition. From debunking the myth of the perfectly rational "Resource Man" consumer to exploring privacy concerns around EV charging automation, Yolande reveals why people—not just technology—must drive Australia's energy future. She discusses the gendered dynamics of smart home adoption, the coming wave of home helper robots, and why low-income households are being left behind in the transition. This conversation offers rare insight into how human behaviour, not just engineering, will determine whether our energy transition succeeds or fails.
(02:18) What does the Monash Energy Institute do?
(06:32) The myth of Resource Man is still alive
(11:18) Why people won't hand over EV charging control
(14:13) The Smart Wife and gendered smart home adoption
(17:04) Home helper robots and energy security
(26:00) Low-income households left behind in transition
(35:36) Why energy professionals should read science fiction
The views and opinions expressed by the guest speaker during this podcast are solely their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of their employer or any other organization they may be affiliated with.
Our guest shares personal experiences and insights based on their individual journey, and listeners should understand that these reflections are meant for informational purposes only.
Any advice or opinions presented in this podcast should not be construed as professional guidance, and individuals are encouraged to seek their own counsel regarding their specific situations.
Wired For Energy is a production of Network Edge, with episodes produced and edited by Posterboy Media.
To find more information about the energy transition visit - www.networkedge.io
