CIGRE UK Technical Conference 2025

 

Reimagining a Resilient Power System to Deliver our Net Zero Future.

 

CIGRE UK is pleased to announce its 2025 Annual Technical Conference, which will bring together leading professionals, industry experts, and academics to engage in critical dialogue on the future of power systems in the context of the UK’s net zero ambitions.

This year’s theme, “Reimagining a Resilient Power System to Deliver our Net Zero Future,” reflects the pressing need to evolve our infrastructure, operations, and planning frameworks to ensure system resilience, reliability, and sustainability in an increasingly complex energy landscape.

The conference will open with a keynote address by Peter Bingham, Director of System Planning, Engineering and Technology at OFGEM, who will provide insights into the strategic direction of the UK’s electricity system.

We are also honoured to welcome Rannveig Loken, Chair of the CIGRE Technical Council, who will offer a global perspective on the technical challenges and collaborative opportunities driving innovation across the sector.

The event, Chaired by James Yu, will feature key technical presentations by UK subject matter experts will explore a broad range of topics, including:

• Whole systems thinking and task-force outcomes
• Asset management strategies, including SF₆-free switchgear
• Substation design and equipment resilience
• HVDC system planning and deployment
• Advanced modelling and simulation capabilities

Panel discussions will focus on emerging issues and enabling technologies, including:

• Cyber security and infrastructure protection
• The role of artificial intelligence in system management
• Advancements in telecommunications for grid modernisation

The programme will also feature a Leadership Keynote by Anna Ferguson, who will share her professional journey from engineer to CEO, highlighting the value of diversity and leadership in shaping the sector’s future.

A highlight of the day will be the Young Engineers Showcase, where selected early-career professionals will deliver technical presentations as part of a competitive process to earn the opportunity to represent the UK at the CIGRE Paris Session in 2026.

This conference serves as a key platform for knowledge exchange, professional development, and sector-wide collaboration. We invite all members of the power systems community to join us for what promises to be a stimulating and impactful event.