With the theme pathways to an energy future for all, the WPC Energy Congress technical programme provides a comprehensive exploration of how the energy sector can balance demand growth, security, environmental responsibility and the rapid pace of technological change. Participating companies include Saudi Aramco, China National Petroleum Corporation, PetroChina, Sinopec, CNOOC, Petrobras, Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, TAQA (Abu Dhabi National Energy Company), PT Pertamina, Kuwait Oil Company, National Iranian Oil Company, National Iranian South Oil Company, SONATRACH, QatarEnergy LNG, SABIC, SLB (Schlumberger) and Baker Hughes.
Spanning five thematic Blocks and 31 specialised Forums, the programme reflects the increasingly complex and interconnected nature of the world’s energy systems.
Primary energy supply
The opening block confronts the fundamental question of how the world will meet its growing energy needs while advancing climate goals. Forum discussions range from global supply-demand outlooks to new frontiers for oil and gas exploration. The future of hydrocarbons remains a central theme. The Forums also examine the potential of unconventional resources such as shale and oil sands, the role of emerging exploration technologies and breakthroughs that could extend the life of existing basins. Importantly, natural gas receives dedicated attention as a crucial transition fuel, with experts analysing its ability to support grid stability and complement renewables. The block also highlights the rapid advancement of geoscience and the growing importance of biofuels as a versatile industrial feedstock, reinforcing the sector’s shift toward cleaner and more efficient resource development.
Energy infrastructure
As the global energy system becomes more diverse and decentralised, infrastructure must evolve in tandem. Block 2 focuses on the pipelines, storage networks, LNG/FLNG/CNG facilities and transportation systems that underpin secure energy supply chains. With natural gas demand increasing worldwide, participants explore innovations transforming the LNG and compressed gas sectors. The block also addresses the expansion of strategic petroleum reserves, modern pipeline technologies and the geopolitical complexities of energy transport routes. Hydrogen transportation emerges as a major theme, reflecting its rising importance in long-distance, carbon-neutral supply chains. Sessions on CCS hub development and water management further emphasise the technical and environmental frameworks required for resilient, low-carbon operations.
Energy fuels and molecules
Technological diversification continues in Block 3, which examines the fuels and molecules shaping the energy transition. As electricity systems integrate more renewable power, experts explore grid stability, storage innovations and the role of hydrogen and carbon capture. The programme delves deeply into emerging fuels including green and blue hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, e-fuels and sustainable aviation fuel. These discussions underscore their rising economic and industrial significance. Forums also explore the future of refining and petrochemicals in a net-zero world, along with the growing need to secure critical minerals such as lithium and helium. Digital and smart infrastructure round out this block, highlighting the transformation of energy operations through data analytics, automation and intelligent systems.
Energy technologies
Block 4 showcases the cutting edge of energy innovation—from early-stage research and start-ups to advanced emissions abatement technologies. Discussions examine methane detection, direct air capture, CCUS and the integration of solar, wind and nuclear energy at scale. Participants also explore circular economy models powered by rigorous life-cycle analyses and the imperative role of digitalisation, AI and cybersecurity in future-ready energy systems. Together, these topics illustrate how technology will enable efficiency, safety and sustainability across the entire energy value chain.
Energy leadership
The final block recognises that technical progress alone cannot deliver the transition; leadership, policy and collaboration are equally essential. Experts explore strategies for ensuring universal energy access, navigating the energy trilemma and financing future supply systems in a shifting geopolitical and economic landscape. Forums address ESG integration, Scope 3 emissions, stakeholder engagement and the urgent need to attract and retain global talent. Collectively, these discussions highlight the human, financial and institutional frameworks that will guide the industry through this transformative era.
Registration for the Congress is now open, and sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities are also available. Please visit the Congress website for more details: https://wpcenergy2026.org.
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