Rethinking energy resilience in an electrified economy

Overview

Join the York and North Yorkshire branch for a talk by David Hirst, Chartered Engineer and Founder of Ainsty Risk Consulting.

The session will explore how the transition to net zero and an electricity-based system is reshaping the energy trilemma, with a particular focus on resilience in an increasingly uncertain and interconnected world.

As the UK and Europe accelerate towards low‑carbon, electrified economies, traditional assumptions about energy security are being tested by geopolitical tensions, fragile supply chains, and shifting global energy flows. Against this backdrop, growing dependence on electricity for heating, transport, and industry places new demands on systems that must continue to function under physical, cyber, and climatic stresses.

Drawing on current developments and real‑world examples, David will examine how renewable expansion and electrification are transforming risk across energy, digital, and infrastructure systems. The talk will explore how cross‑sector interdependencies—from critical supply routes and data networks to essential services—can amplify disruption, while also creating opportunities for smarter, more adaptive system design.

The session will consider how engineers and policymakers can strengthen resilience while balancing sustainability and affordability, and what it means to design systems capable of absorbing shocks, adapting to disruption, and maintaining continuity in an increasingly complex energy landscape.

This 60‑minute evening talk will be followed by an audience Q&A and an informal social gathering, giving attendees the chance to continue the discussion and connect with peers.

Programme