Dane Thomas, Manager Isolated Networks with Ergon Energy, leads a team which is transforming the energy supply in 39 diverse and beautiful communities in the remotest parts of Queensland. Dane is passionate about supporting and enabling a bright future for these communities and sees clean, safe and reliable energy as a key. These ambitions have been further supported by the state governments with actions in Queensland Jobs and Energy plan. Over the past 5 years he has led the continual transition from reliance on diesel generation to decarbonisation through integration of renewable energy. In 2021 the team successfully took two communities to 80% instantaneous renewable energy in far western Queensland, through an innovative solar monitoring and control system. In 2024 the team is progressing taking four communities to 50+% renewable energy including operating in diesel-off mode. Dane lives in Cairns with his chief inspiration and wife Jacqueline and his Lego wielding daughters Grace and Faith, outside of work he enjoys mountain biking and does his own stunts.
