Chris Briggs

Dr. Chris Briggs is a Research Director at the University of Technology Sydney's Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF), specializing in renewable energy transitions, corporate power purchase agreements (PPAs), and clean energy workforce development. With over 20 years of experience spanning federal/state policy, advocacy, and academic research, he co-founded the Business Renewables Centre-Australia, a non-profit supporting corporate renewable procurement. His expertise includes climate policy design, energy market reform, and Indigenous engagement in renewable projects.

Briggs holds a PhD and Bachelor of Economics (First Class Honors) from the University of Sydney. His research integrates labor economics, energy systems, and policy analysis.

His work focuses on accelerating equitable energy transitions through:

• Corporate PPAs: Developing scalable models for business renewable procurement
• Demand Flexibility: Optimizing grid integration of renewables via load management
• Workforce Development: Addressing skills gaps in renewable energy construction and operations
• First Nations Engagement: Creating inclusive employment pathways in clean energy projects

Briggs' recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on workforce scalability, policy-enabled market transformation, and Indigenous economic participation in renewable energy zones. Articles emphasize labor forecasting methodologies, demand-side innovation, and regulatory frameworks for just transitions.

He leads major grants including ARENA-funded projects on demand flexibility and RACE CRC initiatives on workforce planning. As Program Lead for Energy Futures at ISF, he oversees cross-disciplinary teams developing policy tools for governments and industry. His collaborations include the First Nations Clean Energy Network and state energy agencies.