The World Utilities Congress Strategic Conference is the global meeting place for power and water leaders to forge partnerships, explore business opportunities and discuss the latest trends that will drive the industry forward. The conference programme reflects the issues CEOs and their leadership teams need to consider, as they modernise utilities to manage disruptive change and embed future-focused digital transformation strategies in response to evolving market and customer needs.
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Decarbonisation and Energy Transition
Many industries are ramping up efforts to decarbonise their operations and the utilities sector is no exception. The energy transition has become a driver for new business models and capabilities. Falling prices of renewables and technology advancements have made them an attractive alternative to hydrocarbons. In addition, many countries, including China, India, Russia, UAE and Turkey, are turning to nuclear as a reliable clean energy source. Gas/LNG is also continuing to play an important role in the energy transition.
A path toward a carbon-free future requires the industry to address the intermittent nature of solar and wind power by exploring available storage solutions, as well as taking advantage of technologies that help improve energy efficiency and achieve operational excellence. In addition, companies must futureproof their grids in response to increased mass electrification.
To keep pace with increasingly ambitious net-zero targets and commitments, power and water utilities should position themselves as proactive leaders within the energy transition, making themselves an attractive target for new capital investments.
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Digital Transformation and Technological Innovations
Digital technologies are transforming how utilities serve customers, identify market opportunities and plan for long-term growth. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence, robotics, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), digital twins, blockchain, edge computing and other technical innovations enables companies to improve their energy efficiency, reduce equipment failure and optimise demand side management.
Advanced sensors and metering technologies are transforming not only electric and water grids but entire cities. Smart grids handle bidirectional power flows, capture and report large quantities of data, enabling advanced predictive maintenance models, decreased electricity and water losses and lower carbon emissions. The success of smart grids and smart cities depends on the seamless integration of wired and wireless communications amongst all devices, as well as the ability to develop robust cyber security strategies.
Technological advances also call for new capital. Grid investment plans should incorporate a wide variety of new technologies including advanced inverters, grid management and dispatch tools, and grid-level energy storage equipment.
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Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships
With multi-billion dollar projects, partnerships lie at the heart of the utilities sector. Many collaboration opportunities are available within the industry, on both regional and global levels. Governments and countries can work together to ensure economic prosperity and security of power and water supplies. Utilities, EPCs, technology providers and consultancies can work together to uncover synergies that will drive efficiency, digital transformation and decarbonisation efforts. Electricity suppliers can partner with customers via distributed generation models to achieve mutual benefits.
Being a global meeting place for the utilities leaders, the World Utilities Congress helps cement the existing partnerships and discover new collaboration and growth opportunities.
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Customer-centric Business Models
Customer-centricity together with technological advances are paving the way for new business models and market structures that support existing and new, non-traditional providers. Modern customers have high expectations from their utilities providers, and utilities of the future should move from selling water and power as a commodity to having a segmented value proposition focused on customer needs. Smart end-to-end networks offer businesses the opportunity to improve productivity and efficiency while enhancing customer service.
Power and water consumers also have an important role to play in the energy transition. By optimising their usage, customers can reduce their bills, take the pressure off grids and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases. Utilities providers need to develop comprehensive demand side management models that will empower customers to be active participants in the energy transition.
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Global Industry Dynamics
Global population growth, economic development and rapid urbanisation are increasingly impacting the power and water sectors, as demand for electricity and water grows and the pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions rises. The increased demand makes water scarcity an important issue that go vernments and industry leaders need to address, finding alternative sources to depleted groundwater, which can be enabled by advances in water desalination, water treatment solutions and demand side management.
Many countries are also moving from a linear centralised distribution system to a more flexible, complex and decentralised system, generating major investment opportunities, for existing and new players. To effectively incorporate distributed energy resources (DER) into the grid utilities should adapt their tariff schemes to acknowledge different types of customers, define a solution for DER technical integration and put in place process and organisational changes to make all the pieces work together.
Circular Economy frameworks offer utilities the opportunity to transform their value chains, reducing or eliminating waste, reusing and recycling resources, which in turn can improve efficiencies, reduce costs and decrease carbon emissions. Existing business models need to evolve to enable equipment re-purposing or recycling, better heat waste recovery, carbon capture and use, and improved water cycle management systems.
- Monday 09 May 2022 Day One
- Tuesday 10 May 2022 Day Two
- Wednesday 11 May 2022 Day Three
11:00 12:00
Building a solid foundation for a resilient and sustainable utilities sector
Ministerial session
The energy transition is driving many industries including power and water utilities. What strategies do governments have in place to achieve net-zero? What are the challenges in implementing these strategies and how can they be overcome? Given the central role of water and power within so many industries, what steps are needed to futureproof electrical grids and water distribution systems and ensure utmost resilience?
Attendee insights:
This session will highlight the strategies government leaders are using to futureproof their national water and power sectors while keeping on track with their decarbonisation goals.
SPEAKERS
Monday 09 May 2022
11:00 - 12:00
Building a solid foundation for a resilient and sustainable utilities sector
The energy transition is driving many industries including power and water utilities. What strategies do governments have in place to achieve net-zero? What are the challenges in implementing these strategies and how can they be overcome? Given the central role of water and power within so many industries, what steps are needed to futureproof electrical grids and water distribution systems and ensure utmost resilience?
Attendee insights:
This session will highlight the strategies government leaders are using to futureproof their national water and power sectors while keeping on track with their decarbonisation goals.
SPEAKERS
12:00 13:00
Meeting rising power and water demands, while keeping on track with net-zero carbon goals
Global leadership panel
Population growth and improving living conditions and prosperity are increasing the demands for water and power, at the same time the utilities industry is under pressure to decarbonise its operations. Although renewable energy is getting more affordable and competitive, its intermittent nature poses significant implementation challenges. What will be the driving offset factors: storage technology advancements, reliance on natural gas or hydrogen, or demand side management? What is the role of new technologies in the energy transition, how can they help improve efficiency and decrease emissions? What will enable reliable and resilient green electricity and water networks of the future?
Attendee insights:
This session will discuss tactics and strategies for the successful decarbonisation of water and power markets.
SPEAKERS
Monday 09 May 2022
12:00 - 13:00
Meeting rising power and water demands, while keeping on track with net-zero carbon goals
Population growth and improving living conditions and prosperity are increasing the demands for water and power, at the same time the utilities industry is under pressure to decarbonise its operations. Although renewable energy is getting more affordable and competitive, its intermittent nature poses significant implementation challenges. What will be the driving offset factors: storage technology advancements, reliance on natural gas or hydrogen, or demand side management? What is the role of new technologies in the energy transition, how can they help improve efficiency and decrease emissions? What will enable reliable and resilient green electricity and water networks of the future?
Attendee insights:
This session will discuss tactics and strategies for the successful decarbonisation of water and power markets.
SPEAKERS
14:00 15:00
Where are the most promising growth opportunities for utilities globally?
Global leadership panel
The global utilities market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% to reach close to $6 trillion in 2025. Where should utilities channel their investments to secure higher returns – power and water networks, power generation or energy services? Will innovative startups contribute to industry development and growth? Does the energy storage market – batteries or hydrogen – have enough investment opportunities? Should utilities consider selling, installing and maintaining distributed energy resources (DER) as a potential revenue stream? What about growth in the adoption of electric vehicles – will utilities capitalise on it?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session where water and power leaders will share their perspectives on what forces are shaping the utilities market going forward.
SPEAKERS
His Excellency Yousif Al Ali
Assistant Undersecretary for Electricity, Water & Future Energy Affairs
Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
Monday 09 May 2022
14:00 - 15:00
Where are the most promising growth opportunities for utilities globally?
The global utilities market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% to reach close to $6 trillion in 2025. Where should utilities channel their investments to secure higher returns – power and water networks, power generation or energy services? Will innovative startups contribute to industry development and growth? Does the energy storage market – batteries or hydrogen – have enough investment opportunities? Should utilities consider selling, installing and maintaining distributed energy resources (DER) as a potential revenue stream? What about growth in the adoption of electric vehicles – will utilities capitalise on it?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session where water and power leaders will share their perspectives on what forces are shaping the utilities market going forward.
SPEAKERS
His Excellency Yousif Al Ali
Assistant Undersecretary for Electricity, Water & Future Energy Affairs
15:00 15:30
Integrated vs non integrated utility – which one is the future?
Industry debate
Many economies worldwide have turned towards deregulation of their utilities sector, which has opened doors for many small non integrated utilities to enter the market. The resulting competition promises lower prices and better customer service from the increased number of water and power suppliers. At the same time, critics blame market deregulation for increased price volatility and the potential for market manipulation. Regulated markets together with vertically integrated utilities, on the other hand, offer price stability and long term certainty. Does the future hold enough room for both business models or will one of them take over completely?
Attendee insights:
An important session for a deeper understanding of the different utilities market frameworks and what they bring to both providers and consumers.
SPEAKERS
Monday 09 May 2022
15:00 - 15:30
Integrated vs non integrated utility – which one is the future?
Many economies worldwide have turned towards deregulation of their utilities sector, which has opened doors for many small non integrated utilities to enter the market. The resulting competition promises lower prices and better customer service from the increased number of water and power suppliers. At the same time, critics blame market deregulation for increased price volatility and the potential for market manipulation. Regulated markets together with vertically integrated utilities, on the other hand, offer price stability and long term certainty. Does the future hold enough room for both business models or will one of them take over completely?
Attendee insights:
An important session for a deeper understanding of the different utilities market frameworks and what they bring to both providers and consumers.
SPEAKERS
15:30 16:30
Ensuring power and water security through policy, regulation and cooperation
Ministerial session
A secure and uninterrupted supply of water and electricity lies at the heart of modern economies and is of paramount importance. How can governments improve their policies, regulations and market designs that will aid the development of the utilities sector while keeping on track with their decarbonisation goals? How are countries collaborating and what are they learning from each other that will strengthen their utilities sectors and economies overall?
Attendee insights:
A key session for all utilities leaders to benefit from the latest developments in policies and regulations within the industry.
SPEAKERS
His Excellency Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, Bir Bikram
Adviser to the Prime Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Affairs
Bangladesh
Monday 09 May 2022
15:30 - 16:30
Ensuring power and water security through policy, regulation and cooperation
A secure and uninterrupted supply of water and electricity lies at the heart of modern economies and is of paramount importance. How can governments improve their policies, regulations and market designs that will aid the development of the utilities sector while keeping on track with their decarbonisation goals? How are countries collaborating and what are they learning from each other that will strengthen their utilities sectors and economies overall?
Attendee insights:
A key session for all utilities leaders to benefit from the latest developments in policies and regulations within the industry.
SPEAKERS
His Excellency Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, Bir Bikram
Adviser to the Prime Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Affairs
16:30 17:30
Opening new doors through the establishment of strategic partnerships
Global leadership panel
With utilities megaprojects valued in billions of USD, strategic partnerships within the supply chain are central to the industry. Which partnerships will help unleash synergies enabling improved efficiency and decreased carbon emissions? How can the public and private sectors work together to deliver better value to consumers? Do oil and gas companies have a role to play in the power and water sectors? Which collaborations will help tap the full potential of new emerging technologies? But most importantly, what tactics will ensure that the partnerships last and are of mutual benefit to all parties?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session for water and power leaders who would like to gain deeper insights into the value that various collaborations within the utilities supply chain bring.
SPEAKERS
Tarik Hamane
Managing Director Development, Member of the Executive Committee
Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (Masen)
Monday 09 May 2022
16:30 - 17:30
Opening new doors through the establishment of strategic partnerships
With utilities megaprojects valued in billions of USD, strategic partnerships within the supply chain are central to the industry. Which partnerships will help unleash synergies enabling improved efficiency and decreased carbon emissions? How can the public and private sectors work together to deliver better value to consumers? Do oil and gas companies have a role to play in the power and water sectors? Which collaborations will help tap the full potential of new emerging technologies? But most importantly, what tactics will ensure that the partnerships last and are of mutual benefit to all parties?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session for water and power leaders who would like to gain deeper insights into the value that various collaborations within the utilities supply chain bring.
SPEAKERS
10:00 10:55
Building the bridge to a carbon-free future through energy diversification
Global leadership panel
The energy transition has been on the top of many industries’ agendas for a while. As for the power sector, electricity demand continues to increase globally, which means the carbon intensity of electricity production must decrease to enable a carbon-free future. With significantly decreased production costs, renewable energy, especially wind and solar, are becoming increasingly popular. However, will they be able to satisfy peak electricity demand? What will be the role of hydrogen in the power sector – is it a solution to the intermittency of solar and wind power? What about natural gas? Being the cleanest burning hydrocarbon, it can ramp up electricity production very quickly. Is it clean enough though, to meet net-zero goals? Nuclear power is also an alternative for clean energy generation – will it be able to overcome public resistance and take a more prominent place in the global energy mix?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session for industry executives that would like to gain deeper insights into what the energy mix will look like regionally and globally to enable the successful energy transition.
SPEAKERS
His Excellency Yousif Al Ali
Assistant Undersecretary for Electricity, Water & Future Energy Affairs
Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure
Tuesday 10 May 2022
10:00 - 10:55
Building the bridge to a carbon-free future through energy diversification
The energy transition has been on the top of many industries’ agendas for a while. As for the power sector, electricity demand continues to increase globally, which means the carbon intensity of electricity production must decrease to enable a carbon-free future. With significantly decreased production costs, renewable energy, especially wind and solar, are becoming increasingly popular. However, will they be able to satisfy peak electricity demand? What will be the role of hydrogen in the power sector – is it a solution to the intermittency of solar and wind power? What about natural gas? Being the cleanest burning hydrocarbon, it can ramp up electricity production very quickly. Is it clean enough though, to meet net-zero goals? Nuclear power is also an alternative for clean energy generation – will it be able to overcome public resistance and take a more prominent place in the global energy mix?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session for industry executives that would like to gain deeper insights into what the energy mix will look like regionally and globally to enable the successful energy transition.
SPEAKERS
10:55 11:40
Raising capital for power and water projects
Global leadership panel
The power and water industry is advancing towards its net-zero goals, however, being a capital-intensive sector, the necessary transformation calls for new investments to reinforce and modernise the electrical grid and water distribution networks in support of renewable power supply, improved efficiency, storage and reliability. What makes power and water projects attractive to investors? How much investment is needed for the industry to achieve its carbon neutral goals? Do companies prefer to raise capital through debt, equity or a combination of both? Will venture funds play a role in the utilities sector?
Attendee insights:
This session will discuss strategies for raising capital to fund power and water industry projects enabling the successful energy transition.
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
10:55 - 11:40
Raising capital for power and water projects
The power and water industry is advancing towards its net-zero goals, however, being a capital-intensive sector, the necessary transformation calls for new investments to reinforce and modernise the electrical grid and water distribution networks in support of renewable power supply, improved efficiency, storage and reliability. What makes power and water projects attractive to investors? How much investment is needed for the industry to achieve its carbon neutral goals? Do companies prefer to raise capital through debt, equity or a combination of both? Will venture funds play a role in the utilities sector?
Attendee insights:
This session will discuss strategies for raising capital to fund power and water industry projects enabling the successful energy transition.
SPEAKERS
11:40 12:10
Balancing decarbonisation and energy security
Ministerial session
As countries are developing various decarbonisation pathways, trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is important to ensure that these efforts do not hinder energy security and economic growth. What strategies will ensure that countries have stable energy supply and are on track with their net-zero commitments? Which
decarbonisation pathways will have the least impact on consumer prices? What is the role of gas/LNG in ensuring energy security? What is the role of hydrogen in the energy transition?
Attendee insights:
This is a key session for the utilities leaders to gain deeper insights into different decarbonisation pathways
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
11:40 - 12:10
Balancing decarbonisation and energy security
As countries are developing various decarbonisation pathways, trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is important to ensure that these efforts do not hinder energy security and economic growth. What strategies will ensure that countries have stable energy supply and are on track with their net-zero commitments? Which
decarbonisation pathways will have the least impact on consumer prices? What is the role of gas/LNG in ensuring energy security? What is the role of hydrogen in the energy transition?
Attendee insights:
This is a key session for the utilities leaders to gain deeper insights into different decarbonisation pathways
SPEAKERS
12:10 12:30
Circular Economy as an energy transition enabler
In the spotlight
Businesses and societies are moving away from traditional linear ‘take, consume, dispose’ economic models towards circular frameworks that transform value chains, reducing or even completely eliminating waste, reusing and recycling resources, which in turn can improve efficiencies, reduce costs, decrease carbon emissions and ease the overall impact on the environment. As we transition to a circular economy, what is the role of power and water utilities – will they lead the change or be passive followers? How do strategies and business models need to evolve to enable equipment re-purpose or recycling, better heat waste recovery, carbon capture and use or improved water cycle management? What is the role of consumers in circular economies – how can businesses give an impetus to the creation of water- and energy-wise communities?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session for industry leaders who would like to understand how circular economy models can help their businesses improve efficiencies and reduce carbon emissions, securing a sustainable future with a circular mindset.
Tuesday 10 May 2022
12:10 - 12:30
Circular Economy as an energy transition enabler
Businesses and societies are moving away from traditional linear ‘take, consume, dispose’ economic models towards circular frameworks that transform value chains, reducing or even completely eliminating waste, reusing and recycling resources, which in turn can improve efficiencies, reduce costs, decrease carbon emissions and ease the overall impact on the environment. As we transition to a circular economy, what is the role of power and water utilities – will they lead the change or be passive followers? How do strategies and business models need to evolve to enable equipment re-purpose or recycling, better heat waste recovery, carbon capture and use or improved water cycle management? What is the role of consumers in circular economies – how can businesses give an impetus to the creation of water- and energy-wise communities?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session for industry leaders who would like to understand how circular economy models can help their businesses improve efficiencies and reduce carbon emissions, securing a sustainable future with a circular mindset.
12:30 13:00
Cogeneration of water and power – a partnership forever or time to decouple?
Industry debate
Traditional thermal distillation water plants require a significant amount of electricity to operate, whereas thermal power plants require huge amounts of water, hence, the two have been in a symbiotic relationship for many years. However, with the increased prominence of Reverse Osmosis and Solar Water technologies, which are much less energy intensive, is decoupling of water and power generation the way forward?
Attendee insights:
In this industry debate, two utilities sector leaders will discuss the pros and cons of combined and separated water and power production.
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
12:30 - 13:00
Cogeneration of water and power – a partnership forever or time to decouple?
Traditional thermal distillation water plants require a significant amount of electricity to operate, whereas thermal power plants require huge amounts of water, hence, the two have been in a symbiotic relationship for many years. However, with the increased prominence of Reverse Osmosis and Solar Water technologies, which are much less energy intensive, is decoupling of water and power generation the way forward?
Attendee insights:
In this industry debate, two utilities sector leaders will discuss the pros and cons of combined and separated water and power production.
SPEAKERS
14:00 15:00
The role of water desalination and water recycling in tackling global water scarcity
Global leadership panel
According to the World Health Organisation, at least half of the global population will be living in water-stressed areas by 2025. The Global Water Institute suggests that 700 million people worldwide could be displaced by intense water scarcity by 2030. With the growing population and rising temperatures globally, water is becoming a more and more valuable resource, especially in countries with harsh climates and low groundwater resources. What actions can be taken now to ensure the world doesn’t face a global water crisis in the future? How to remove pressure from the depleting groundwater resources? How to improve water treatment and water quality? Can water desalination be a solution to global water scarcity? What is the role of water recycling in addressing the increasing demand for freshwater?
Attendee insights:
This session will present potential strategies and policies for ensuring consistent water supply globally and sustainable management of water resources.
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
14:00 - 15:00
The role of water desalination and water recycling in tackling global water scarcity
According to the World Health Organisation, at least half of the global population will be living in water-stressed areas by 2025. The Global Water Institute suggests that 700 million people worldwide could be displaced by intense water scarcity by 2030. With the growing population and rising temperatures globally, water is becoming a more and more valuable resource, especially in countries with harsh climates and low groundwater resources. What actions can be taken now to ensure the world doesn’t face a global water crisis in the future? How to remove pressure from the depleting groundwater resources? How to improve water treatment and water quality? Can water desalination be a solution to global water scarcity? What is the role of water recycling in addressing the increasing demand for freshwater?
Attendee insights:
This session will present potential strategies and policies for ensuring consistent water supply globally and sustainable management of water resources.
SPEAKERS
15:00 15:30
The role of nuclear energy in achieving net-zero
In the spotlight
Nuclear power can play a major role in the clean energy transition, however, due to public pressure, high budgets, and often extended timelines, this is not always the preferred choice of energy supply. How can nuclear energy contribute to potential decarbonisation pathways? What is the role of nuclear in the hydrogen economy? What are the latest developments within the nuclear industry and how have successful new build projects affected the decarbonisation efforts of the countries where they have been built?
Attendee insights:
An important session for utilities leaders who would like to gain deeper insights into the role of nuclear power in the energy transition.
Tuesday 10 May 2022
15:00 - 15:30
The role of nuclear energy in achieving net-zero
Nuclear power can play a major role in the clean energy transition, however, due to public pressure, high budgets, and often extended timelines, this is not always the preferred choice of energy supply. How can nuclear energy contribute to potential decarbonisation pathways? What is the role of nuclear in the hydrogen economy? What are the latest developments within the nuclear industry and how have successful new build projects affected the decarbonisation efforts of the countries where they have been built?
Attendee insights:
An important session for utilities leaders who would like to gain deeper insights into the role of nuclear power in the energy transition.
15:30 16:00
What will it take for hydrogen to become the low-carbon champion?
In the spotlight
Hydrogen has suddenly become one of the hottest trends within the energy and utilities sectors. Hydrogen can be a good solution to address the intermittency of renewable energy as well as power fuel cells of electric vehicles. However, with many projects still in their infancy, the question is, when will hydrogen be deployed at a regional and global scale? What are the potential barriers to scaling up its deployment? Which projects are more attractive to investors – green or blue hydrogen? What technologies will help reduce the cost of hydrogen production and distribution?
Attendee insights:
This focused interview will discuss the role of hydrogen in the energy transition of the utilities sector, as well as the challenges and opportunities that it presents.
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
15:30 - 16:00
What will it take for hydrogen to become the low-carbon champion?
Hydrogen has suddenly become one of the hottest trends within the energy and utilities sectors. Hydrogen can be a good solution to address the intermittency of renewable energy as well as power fuel cells of electric vehicles. However, with many projects still in their infancy, the question is, when will hydrogen be deployed at a regional and global scale? What are the potential barriers to scaling up its deployment? Which projects are more attractive to investors – green or blue hydrogen? What technologies will help reduce the cost of hydrogen production and distribution?
Attendee insights:
This focused interview will discuss the role of hydrogen in the energy transition of the utilities sector, as well as the challenges and opportunities that it presents.
SPEAKERS
16:00 16:30
Is gas/LNG a bridge or a destination of the energy transition?
Industry debate
Natural gas offers a power-dense solution that is less carbon-intensive compared to other hydrocarbons and can satisfy rapid fluctuations in the power demand. However, critics argue that gas is only a mid-term solution, as it is a finite resource, and an increase in demand will result in higher prices, making it economically unviable in the long term. Also, although it does produce fewer emissions compared with other hydrocarbons, it is not a completely green alternative. What will be the role of gas/LNG in the water and energy sectors paving the way towards a net-zero future?
Attendee insights:
In this industry debate, two industry professionals will discuss the role of natural gas/LNG in the utilities industry.
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
16:00 - 16:30
Is gas/LNG a bridge or a destination of the energy transition?
Natural gas offers a power-dense solution that is less carbon-intensive compared to other hydrocarbons and can satisfy rapid fluctuations in the power demand. However, critics argue that gas is only a mid-term solution, as it is a finite resource, and an increase in demand will result in higher prices, making it economically unviable in the long term. Also, although it does produce fewer emissions compared with other hydrocarbons, it is not a completely green alternative. What will be the role of gas/LNG in the water and energy sectors paving the way towards a net-zero future?
Attendee insights:
In this industry debate, two industry professionals will discuss the role of natural gas/LNG in the utilities industry.
SPEAKERS
16:30 17:30
Green finance as a catalyst for the energy transition
Global leadership panel
The COP26 convention has further emphasised the importance of sustainable investments as one of the primary drivers of the energy transition. With ESG becoming an important investment metric, what strategies are power and water companies using to attract sustainable capital? What are the key indicators that investors are looking at when selecting projects to invest in? What is the role of green bonds and sukuks in the energy transition? How to leverage the voluntary carbon credit market mechanism to accelerate the development of green power generation? What are the key indicators that will build investor confidence to invest in projects producing carbon credits?
Attendee insights:
A must attend session for utilities leaders who would like to get deeper insights into investment decision making as well as investment flow dynamics of the utilities sector
SPEAKERS
Tuesday 10 May 2022
16:30 - 17:30
Green finance as a catalyst for the energy transition
The COP26 convention has further emphasised the importance of sustainable investments as one of the primary drivers of the energy transition. With ESG becoming an important investment metric, what strategies are power and water companies using to attract sustainable capital? What are the key indicators that investors are looking at when selecting projects to invest in? What is the role of green bonds and sukuks in the energy transition? How to leverage the voluntary carbon credit market mechanism to accelerate the development of green power generation? What are the key indicators that will build investor confidence to invest in projects producing carbon credits?
Attendee insights:
A must attend session for utilities leaders who would like to get deeper insights into investment decision making as well as investment flow dynamics of the utilities sector
SPEAKERS
10:30 11:30
Efficient integration of renewable energy into power grids
Global leadership panel
Renewable energy – be it solar, onshore or offshore wind, tidal, geothermal, biomass or hydropower – is an important component in the decarbonisation plans for the water and power industries. The big question is – how can intermittent renewable energy sources be incorporated into the electrical grid in a way that is cost-effective and helps balance electricity supply and demand? Is there a need to turn to distributed power generation and behind-the-meter storage? What is the future of energy storage business models – will they be able to solve the problem alone or is gas/LNG an inescapable piece of the puzzle to meet peak demand? Will renewables be used for water heating as well as electricity generation? What is the role of renewable energy in water desalination?
Attendee insights:
This important session will discuss how to create stable grids with variable energy inputs, as well as the role of renewables in the water and power sectors.
SPEAKERS
Wednesday 11 May 2022
10:30 - 11:30
Efficient integration of renewable energy into power grids
Renewable energy – be it solar, onshore or offshore wind, tidal, geothermal, biomass or hydropower – is an important component in the decarbonisation plans for the water and power industries. The big question is – how can intermittent renewable energy sources be incorporated into the electrical grid in a way that is cost-effective and helps balance electricity supply and demand? Is there a need to turn to distributed power generation and behind-the-meter storage? What is the future of energy storage business models – will they be able to solve the problem alone or is gas/LNG an inescapable piece of the puzzle to meet peak demand? Will renewables be used for water heating as well as electricity generation? What is the role of renewable energy in water desalination?
Attendee insights:
This important session will discuss how to create stable grids with variable energy inputs, as well as the role of renewables in the water and power sectors.
SPEAKERS
11:30 12:00
Integrated power and water strategies for smart cities development
In the spotlight
Building smart cities requires intense planning, with smart meters, smart grids and smart water distribution systems playing an important role. The smart grid market size is estimated to reach over $92 billion by 2026, growing at the CAGR of 17.76%. Smart electric and water grids improve energy efficiency, lower carbon emissions, reduce equipment failure, decrease electricity losses and water leaks and allow consumers to monitor their consumption and reduce their bills. Which technological innovations will be driving the success of smart grids and smart cities? What are the best practices to ensure smart grid interoperability? The proliferation of sensors and smart meters, as well as advanced IT systems significantly increase cyber attack surface area. How can governments, utilities, technology providers and customers work together to ensure the cyber safety of emerging smart cities?
Attendee insights:
A key session for attendees to gain deeper insights into how smart electric and water distribution systems drive efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and enhance customer experience.
SPEAKERS
Wednesday 11 May 2022
11:30 - 12:00
Integrated power and water strategies for smart cities development
Building smart cities requires intense planning, with smart meters, smart grids and smart water distribution systems playing an important role. The smart grid market size is estimated to reach over $92 billion by 2026, growing at the CAGR of 17.76%. Smart electric and water grids improve energy efficiency, lower carbon emissions, reduce equipment failure, decrease electricity losses and water leaks and allow consumers to monitor their consumption and reduce their bills. Which technological innovations will be driving the success of smart grids and smart cities? What are the best practices to ensure smart grid interoperability? The proliferation of sensors and smart meters, as well as advanced IT systems significantly increase cyber attack surface area. How can governments, utilities, technology providers and customers work together to ensure the cyber safety of emerging smart cities?
Attendee insights:
A key session for attendees to gain deeper insights into how smart electric and water distribution systems drive efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and enhance customer experience.
SPEAKERS
12:00 13:00
Entering the golden age of utility reinvention – how is digitalisation redefining utility business models?
Global leadership panel
Digital transformation has been on the radar of many industries for a while and utilities are no exception. The Internet of Things (IoT) and the multitude of sensors that come with it enable real-time monitoring of assets that can optimise efficiency and improve security. Coupled with advanced machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence, the collected data helps improve asset management and operations, process automation and demand side management, ultimately reducing costs and improving customer experience.
With the obvious benefits offered by smart digital solutions, what are the challenges slowing down their implementation and how can they be overcome? Where do utilities need to innovate more? Is the industry workforce ready for widescale digital adoption or is it necessary to invest in upskilling or reskilling? And most importantly, with the proliferation of sensors and devices, how can we ensure the Internet of Things doesn’t turn into the Internet of Vulnerabilities?
Attendee insights:
A key session for water and power leaders to have a deeper understanding of the driving forces behind the industry-wide digital transformation
SPEAKERS
Wednesday 11 May 2022
12:00 - 13:00
Entering the golden age of utility reinvention – how is digitalisation redefining utility business models?
Digital transformation has been on the radar of many industries for a while and utilities are no exception. The Internet of Things (IoT) and the multitude of sensors that come with it enable real-time monitoring of assets that can optimise efficiency and improve security. Coupled with advanced machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence, the collected data helps improve asset management and operations, process automation and demand side management, ultimately reducing costs and improving customer experience.
With the obvious benefits offered by smart digital solutions, what are the challenges slowing down their implementation and how can they be overcome? Where do utilities need to innovate more? Is the industry workforce ready for widescale digital adoption or is it necessary to invest in upskilling or reskilling? And most importantly, with the proliferation of sensors and devices, how can we ensure the Internet of Things doesn’t turn into the Internet of Vulnerabilities?
Attendee insights:
A key session for water and power leaders to have a deeper understanding of the driving forces behind the industry-wide digital transformation
SPEAKERS
14:00 15:00
Understanding customer-centric business models
Global leadership panel
Electricity and water consumers today have an important role to play in reducing carbon emissions by optimising their usage and reducing the pressure on the grids. What are the strategies for successful demand side management? How are customer needs and behaviours changing? What do customers expect from their utilities providers and how can these expectations be met? How can customer engagement be improved and how can utilities benefit from customer-centric business models?
Attendee insights:
An important session to gain deeper insights into the role of customers in the utilities business models.
SPEAKERS
Wednesday 11 May 2022
14:00 - 15:00
Understanding customer-centric business models
Electricity and water consumers today have an important role to play in reducing carbon emissions by optimising their usage and reducing the pressure on the grids. What are the strategies for successful demand side management? How are customer needs and behaviours changing? What do customers expect from their utilities providers and how can these expectations be met? How can customer engagement be improved and how can utilities benefit from customer-centric business models?
Attendee insights:
An important session to gain deeper insights into the role of customers in the utilities business models.
SPEAKERS
15:00 16:00
The future electricity and water market landscape – building the utility of tomorrow
Global leadership panel
Water and power sectors are undergoing a huge transformation: modernising infrastructure, decarbonising their operations, improving energy efficiency through the application of digital solutions and demand side management, while trying to ensure physical and cyber security and resilience of their networks. In addition, the market landscape is constantly changing – innovative technologies and new clean energy sources are emerging, while customers are becoming more demanding. Furthermore, extreme weather events and financial shocks may disrupt the industry when it is least expected.
Ultimately, what will the water and electricity industry look like in 2030 regionally and globally? What does it take to build a truly global efficient and resilient utility of the future?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session that will discuss the integrated transformation of power and water utilities and the key drivers of change that will reshape the industry by 2030.
SPEAKERS
Wednesday 11 May 2022
15:00 - 16:00
The future electricity and water market landscape – building the utility of tomorrow
Water and power sectors are undergoing a huge transformation: modernising infrastructure, decarbonising their operations, improving energy efficiency through the application of digital solutions and demand side management, while trying to ensure physical and cyber security and resilience of their networks. In addition, the market landscape is constantly changing – innovative technologies and new clean energy sources are emerging, while customers are becoming more demanding. Furthermore, extreme weather events and financial shocks may disrupt the industry when it is least expected.
Ultimately, what will the water and electricity industry look like in 2030 regionally and globally? What does it take to build a truly global efficient and resilient utility of the future?
Attendee insights:
A must-attend session that will discuss the integrated transformation of power and water utilities and the key drivers of change that will reshape the industry by 2030.
SPEAKERS
- Monday 09 May 2022 Day One
- Tuesday 10 May 2022 Day Two
- Wednesday 11 May 2022 Day Three