Speed date a sustainability expert

Michael O'Connell. Picture: Kristian Scott

Speed dating isn’t for everyone.

That includes Michael O’Connell, who has been married for going on 30 years and isn’t looking for new love.

But the St Albans electrical engineer will take part in speed-dating with a difference later this month when Brimbank council hosts its ‘Speed date a sustainability expert’ event at Victoria University’s St Albans campus.

You can spend 20 minutes with Mr O’Connell, who is an alternative technology association technical specialist and energy management consultant, whose expertise ranges from solar power and energy efficiency, to gardens and grey water.

The event has been designed for anyone who rents, owns or plans to build or renovate, and who wants to incorporate sustainable design or improve their energy efficiency.

Mr O’Connell, one of 14 experts at the speed dating event, said many people are surprised to learn how the sun moves through the sky at different times of the year.

He said knowing where it rises and sets allows you to take advantage of its light and heat, and save on energy costs.

“These events are awesome, it’s great fun,” he said.

Speed date a sustainability expert is on Saturday, April 30, 2-4pm. Bookings at sdse.ata.org.au