Dane Thomas, Manager of Isolated Networks
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Dane’s future is Energy Queensland
Dane Thomas has always been driven by a desire to make a positive impact. What began as a university aspiration in 2012 has blossomed into a fulfilling career at Energy Queensland. As Manager of Isolated Networks, Dane and his team are leading the way by transitioning remote communities across Queensland to renewable energy. We talked to Dane about his remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
A commitment to change
From Moa Island to Masig and Cape York Peninsula, Dane is on a mission to implement sustainable solutions and pave the way for a greener future. As Manager of Isolated Networks, he’s at the frontline of progress, transforming the energy landscape for over 20,000 Queenslanders across 33 remote networks.
“Many of these communities are so remote that they’re not connected to the main electricity network and have to rely on diesel generators,” says Dane. “A big focus right now is to transition to renewable energy, like solar power and batteries.
“We get to work with some of the most beautiful places and communities across Queensland. It’s very exciting, and it’s an honour to do this work.”
Transitioning to renewable energy is a complex undertaking and the challenges that Dane and his team face are numerous - including integrating new technologies, retraining staff and overcoming logistical hurdles. While they are committed to accelerating progress, they understand the need to support both the workforce and the communities through this transformative period.
“For us, it’s about understanding all the risks involved,” says Dane. “We’re working with people who have relied on diesel generators and networks for a very long time, so it’s understandable that they’re nervous about the impacts of change.
“We want to bring people on the journey and upskill them to be able to work on all the power plants operating in their area. It’s a challenge, but there's a lot of opportunity there as well.”
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Meaningful work
Dane’s journey into the world of renewable energy began in 2010 through a university scholarship at Ergon Energy (now part of Energy Queensland). A summer internship saw him work on a solar cities project. This experience proved to be a pivotal moment and laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to shaping the future of energy.
“I was a mature-age student at James Cook University in Townsville,” says Dane. “Prior to that, I’d worked in the dental industry, hospitality and even ran a cleaning business. I tried a lot of things but I was keen on engineering and renewable energy - to try to make a difference for the planet.”
Since then, Dane’s career trajectory has been defined by consistent growth. After completing his Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics, Dane joined us as a Graduate Engineer before progressing to Senior Asset Engineer.
Over the 12-plus years he’s been with us, Dane hasn’t lost sight of what’s important. In his current role as Manager of Isolated Networks, he is as motivated as ever to drive meaningful change.
“We’ve started working towards decarbonising more communities,” says Dane. “From our modelling, we’re seeing that over time it will be more cost effective to use renewable energy and energy storage than diesel only.
“The Torres Strait are already seeing the effects of climate change where they’re having to move grave sites because of rising sea levels. These communities are incredibly passionate about action on climate change and as their energy provider, we want to align with their values and support them in any way we can.”
A brighter future for all
Outside of work, Dane balances his fulfilling career with a vibrant family life. He enjoys spending quality time with his two daughters - building LEGO creations or jamming together in their family band.
Travel plays an integral part of Dane’s role and allows him to connect on a meaningful level with the communities he serves.
“I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve received at Energy Queensland to do this kind of work. I don’t take that for granted, and I don’t think I would’ve got the same opportunities elsewhere.”
Looking ahead, Dane is enthusiastic about the future of renewable energy and the role Energy Queensland is going to play in that transition.
“Over the next year, we’re looking forward to completing our existing projects helping communities run solely on solar and batteries.
“It’s kind of funny - 16 years ago when I started uni, I wanted to do work with remote communities and bring about positive change, and that’s what I get to do now. That’s still my number one reason for getting out of bed every morning and doing it all over again.”
