Smart Tech for a Sustainable Planet
From Energy-Hungry Data Centres to Energy-Smart with Al

Artificial intelligence is transforming data centres — but can it also help turn them from energy-hungry giants into energy-smart hubs?
This inaugural AFCOM Melbourne event brings together leaders from hyperscale, energy utilities, infrastructure development, and technology providers to explore how Al, smart energy integration, and innovative design are reshaping the future of sustainable digital infrastructure.

Event Agenda & Itinerary
4:00 - 4:30 PM | Registration & Welcome Networking
* Guest registration and check-in
* Informal networking

4:30 - 4:40 PM | Opening Address
Welcome & Chapter Introduction - Opening remarks
* Acknowledgement of Country
* Introduction to AFCOM Melbourne Chapter vision and mission
* Overview of the evening's theme
Presenter: Rana Qadir - President Melbourne Chapter - AFCOM


4:40 - 5:20 PM | Panel Discussion
Smart Tech for a Smart Planet: From Energy-Hungry to Energy-Smart Discussion Themes
* The transformation journey: moving from energy-intensive infrastructure to energy-smart hubs
* Building sustainable digital infrastructure: Al, renewables, and smart grid integration
* Innovation at pace: balancing speed, scale, and environmental responsibility
* Efficiency and carbon reduction strategies
* Al as a catalyst for sustainability in data centres

Panellists
Hyperscale / Colocation Sustainability
Nishi Vissamraju - Sustainability Lead, NEXTDC

Energy & Utilities
Robb van Toledo - Load Connections Manager, AusNet
Digital Infrastructure Development & Finance
James Miles - Development Officer, Infrapoint

Moderator
Peter Greaves - APAC Client Director- Aurecon

5:20 - 5:40 PM | Industry Presentation - TBC
Al-Driven Efficiency &Carbon Reduction in Data Centres
* Practical examples of Al-enabled optimisation
* Measurable impacts on energy consumption and carbon footprint
* Lessons learned from live deployments

Presenter
Peter Simon - APAC Technology Lead - EkkoSense

5:40 - 5:45 PM | Closing Notes

5:45 - 7:30 PM | Networking Drinks
* Open networking session
* Drinks and light catering
* Opportunity to connect with peers across operations,
sustainability, engineering, and leadership roles