Data, Not Dogma: Closing the Knowledge Gap on Renewables

Oz Omegna
February 7, 2025

If there’s one thing we can’t afford in the energy transition, it’s misinformation. Yet, according to a new study from the Climate Council, public knowledge gaps on renewables are being filled with misleading narratives rather than facts. And that’s a problem—misinformation is slowing progress towards energy independence.
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The Knowledge Gap: A Manufactured Crisis?
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Australians have been embracing renewables for decades. More homes have solar panels than swimming pools, and wind and solar now contribute a major share of the national grid. But if you ask the average consumer, they often underestimate how far we’ve come—and overestimate the challenges still ahead. Why? Because fossil fuel interests and certain media outlets are pushing a narrative that keeps people in the dark.

According to the study, 43% of Australians aren’t aware of any renewable energy projects in their region, despite the fact that battery storage is already in a quarter of a million homes and there are 36 large-scale batteries currently operating. This is a massive disconnect between reality and perception.
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VoltaRocks 42: Unifying Energy Data for the People
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That’s where VoltaRocks comes in. We believe in energy independence through transparency, not hidden agendas. That’s why we’re developing 42—our open data platform, designed to bring clarity, accuracy, and accessibility to Australia’s renewable energy landscape.

42 will:
âś… Aggregate real-time data from renewable projects, rebates, and market prices.
âś… Expose misinformation by cross-referencing reliable sources.
âś… Empower consumers to make informed energy choices.
✅ Support SMEs & households in navigating energy rebates and reducing bills—without bias.

Knowledge should belong to everyone, not just the big guys. That’s why we’re also launching a micro-bootcamp alongside 42, equipping consumers with data literacy tools to confidently navigate energy decisions.


Why This Matters: The Cost of Misinformation
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Misinformation isn’t just annoying—it’s costly. People who don’t understand renewables fall for delays, false solutions, and unnecessary expenses. Worse, they become easy targets for fossil fuel lobbying, which wants nothing more than to slow down the transition.

Energy independence isn’t just about technology; it’s about democratising knowledge. VoltaRocks is committed to transparency, education, and open data. What is the best way to combat misinformation? Unify the facts.


Stay tuned as we roll out 42 and our micro-bootcamp—because when you have the right data, you have the power. 🔥⚡

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Source: Study finds major public knowledge gaps on renewables – and they’re being filled with misinformation

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