Smart Energy: Northern Ireland’s leading renewable energy conference returns in five weeks
19th Feb 2026
With just five weeks to go, RenewableNI is preparing to welcome business leaders, investors, policymakers and energy innovators to Smart Energy, taking place on Thursday 26 March 2026 at the Europa Hotel in Belfast.
Smart Energy is Northern Ireland’s premier renewable electricity conference, growing year-on-year and attracting Executive Ministers, senior policymakers, international CEOs and industry leaders.
This year’s theme, Developments for Delivering, focuses on the reforms and infrastructure needed to turn renewable ambition into delivery and achieve the 80% renewable electricity generation target by 2030.
The final design of the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG) has been published by the Department for the Economy, but the sector is still awaiting the full terms and conditions. REPG is essential for unlocking inward investment and strengthening Northern Ireland’s energy security. At Smart Energy, experts will discuss how to ensure timelines are met and how to maximise success ahead of the first auction.
With the auction expected in Q1 2027, businesses across Northern Ireland’s renewable supply chain – from construction, engineering and legal services to manufacturing, logistics and professional services – will gain insights into emerging opportunities for growth. The Supporting the Supply Chain panel will feature representatives from the National Wealth Fund and other key stakeholders.
Key Smart Energy topics for 2026
This year’s agenda brings together leading experts to address the major issues shaping Northern Ireland’s energy and economic future, including:
- Grid investment and infrastructure reform;
- Developing Northern Ireland’s offshore wind industry;
- Ensuring the supply‑chain capacity needed for delivery.
Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, is confirmed as keynote speaker, joining industry leaders, senior civil servants and technical experts for a full day of panel discussions and networking.
Networking Opportunities
Smart Energy 2026 includes an exclusive networking reception the evening before in Amelia Hall, as well as a drinks reception immediately after the conference in the exhibition space and a business lunch. All are included in the ticket price, ensuring plenty of time for delegates to discuss key topics and connect with speakers and sponsors.
The conference also highlights the role of Women in Renewables, featuring a dedicated area to meet graduates of the Women in Renewables mentoring course and participants in the free mentoring scheme. The “Leading by Example” session before lunch will showcase sector role models and their achievements.
Smar Energy Registration
Demand for Smart Energy continues to grow, and attendance is expected to exceed previous years. Registration is open now via the RenewableNI website: https://renewableni.com/smart-energy-26/delegate/
