Interview Questions: Understanding Client Goals and Sustainability Priorities

  • Inquire about the client's sustainability objectives, both short-term and long-term. Understand their vision for the project or community and how it aligns with broader sustainability initiatives.

  • Ask about specific sustainability metrics or certifications the client may prioritise, such as energy efficiency, carbon neutrality, or social equity.

  • Explore how the client envisions the role of energy infrastructure in contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment.

Initial Conversation Starters

  • What are your organisation's sustainability objectives and long-term goals?

  • How does your organisation prioritise energy efficiency and renewable energy integration in your projects?

  • What are your community's well-being and social equity priorities?

  • How does your organisation currently measure and track environmental impact and carbon emissions?

  • How do you envision the role of energy infrastructure in contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment?

  • What are the key challenges you face in achieving your sustainability goals?

  • How do you engage with the local community and stakeholders in your projects?

  • What existing sustainability initiatives do you have in place, and how do you evaluate their effectiveness?

  • Are there any specific sustainability metrics or certifications you are aiming to achieve, such as WELL Building Standard or Living Building Challenge?

  • How can our department support your efforts in achieving a more sustainable and regenerative future?

 

Here’s some thinking and questions to start engaging and in meaningful conversations
that consider decarbonisation and sustainability from a holistic perspective:

a.) Access to Sustainable Energy Solutions:

Thinking:

• The goal is to ensure equitable access to sustainable energy solutions for all community members, regardless of socioeconomic status or location.

• Problem-solving solutions may involve promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources and exploring innovative technologies to enhance energy access and affordability.

• Solutions may also include developing partnerships with energy providers, local authorities, and community organisations to establish community-based renewable energy projects and microgrids.

Questions:

• How would you rate the accessibility and availability of sustainable energy solutions, such as renewable energy sources, within the community?

• Are there any specific challenges or barriers you face in accessing or implementing sustainable energy technologies?

• What are your perceptions of the effectiveness and reliability of sustainable energy solutions in the area?

• Have you encountered any issues related to the affordability or scalability of decarbonisation initiatives?

 

b.) Energy Efficiency and Building Performance:

 Thinking:

• The vision is to optimise energy efficiency across buildings and infrastructure, reducing energy consumption and minimizing carbon emissions.

• Problem-solving solutions may include conducting energy audits and implementing retrofit programs to improve building performance and energy efficiency.

• Encouraging the use of smart technologies, energy management systems, and data analytics can help optimise energy usage and identify areas for improvement.

 Questions:

• How familiar are you with energy efficiency measures and technologies for buildings and infrastructure?

• Have you implemented any energy efficiency projects or retrofits in the community? If yes, can you provide examples?

• Are there any specific challenges or barriers to adopting energy-efficient practices in the area?

• What are your thoughts on the role of energy efficiency in achieving decarbonisation goals?

 

 c.) Community Engagement in Decarbonisation:

 Thinking:

• The vision is to foster active community engagement and participation in the decarbonization process.

• Problem-solving solutions may involve organizing workshops, public consultations, and educational campaigns to raise awareness about decarbonization initiatives.

• Engaging community members in co-design processes and decision-making can ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are considered in the development and implementation of decarbonisation strategies.

Questions:

• How involved do you feel the community is in decarbonisation efforts and decision-making processes?

• Have you participated in any community initiatives or projects related to energy transition and decarbonisation? If yes, can you provide examples?

• Are there any opportunities for residents to contribute ideas or actively participate in decarbonisation initiatives?

• What suggestions do you have to enhance community engagement and awareness in the context of decarbonisation?

d.) Equity and Inclusion in Decarbonisation:

Thinking:

• The vision is to ensure that decarbonization efforts are inclusive and address social and economic disparities.

• Problem-solving solutions may include targeted programs to support low-income households in adopting sustainable energy solutions and providing access to energy efficiency upgrades.

• Collaboration with community organizations, local leaders, and policymakers can help identify and address barriers to equitable access and develop tailored solutions.

Questions:

• What is your perception of the equitable distribution of decarbonisation initiatives and benefits within the community?

• Are there any challenges or barriers related to ensuring equal access to sustainable energy solutions for all community members?

• How can the local authority address any disparities or inequalities in the adoption of decarbonisation measures?

• What strategies can be employed to ensure that vulnerable or marginalised groups are not left behind in the decarbonisation process?

 

5. Technological Advances and Innovation: 

Thinking:

• The vision is to ensure that decarbonisation efforts are inclusive and address social and economic disparities.

• Problem-solving solutions may include targeted programs to support low-income households in adopting sustainable energy solutions and providing access to energy efficiency upgrades.

• Collaboration with community organisations, local leaders, and policymakers can help identify and address barriers to equitable access and develop tailored solutions.

Remember to customize these questions to suit the specific context and objectives of your data collection process as energy infrastructure engineers focusing on decarbonisation. Additionally, consider using a mix of open-ended and closed-ended questions to gather both qualitative and quantitative insights.

Questions:

• How familiar are you with emerging technologies and innovations in the field of decarbonisation and sustainable energy solutions?

• Are there any specific technologies or approaches you believe can have a significant impact on decarbonisation in the community?

• Have you encountered any challenges or opportunities when implementing or integrating new decarbonisation technologies?

• What support or resources do you need to further explore and adopt innovative solutions for decarbonisation?