2026

The power of design

Net Zero Economy Authority

CHALLENGE

The Energy Industry Jobs Plan (EIJP), established by the Net Zero Economy Authority Act 2024, is designed to support workers directly affected by the closure of coal-fired or gas-fired power stations to prepare for and transition to new employment.

From concept to copy editing, Grindstone was engaged by the Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) to bring the statutory review of the EIJP to life, released one year after the plan began.

STRATEGY

From the outset it was clear to our creative team that the focus of the EIJP Review was on supporting a positive transition for impacted workers. This key theme is visually reflected throughout the report by the concept of electricity flow: electrons moving towards a positive charge. In this metaphor, the EIJP acts like a conductor, helping workers move toward quality job opportunities with minimal resistance. Grindstone’s creative title ‘Towards a positive transition’ was accepted for the cover concept.

The circular graphic devices that form the foundational blocks of the final report are inspired by this electron flow. These circles provide a simple, effective and flexible visual device that works as a subtle informational tool to highlight key themes in each chapter and underpin infographics.

Outcomes

The final 150 page report and summary document use powerful visual storytelling to communicate the outcomes of the Review and the EIJP’s goal of working towards a positive transition. Accessibility was also a key consideration throughout the design process, culminating in a WCAG compliant, screen-reader compatible digital PDF that proves good design reduces resistance.

Read the full report here