The European Commission has officially launched the programme and registrations for the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) 2026, marking the 20th anniversary of one of the EU’s flagship energy policy events. This year’s edition revolves around the theme “A clean, secure and competitive Energy Union”, reflecting the strategic priorities of decarbonisation, energy security and industrial competitiveness.

Over the past two decades, EUSEW has evolved into a central platform for dialogue among policymakers, industry leaders and civil society. The 2026 edition will feature a co-created programme developed through an open call, bringing together leading experts and high-level speakers, including Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen. A key highlight will be the 9 June panel with former European Commissioners Andris Piebalgs, Günther Oettinger, Miguel Arias Cañete and Kadri Simson, who will discuss the evolution of EU energy policy in a rapidly changing geopolitical context.

Policy conference and strategic priorities

The core of EUSEW 2026 is the Policy Conference, taking place from 9 to 11 June in a hybrid format in Brussels and online. Hosted at the European Commission’s Charlemagne conference centre and the NH Brussels EU Berlaymont hotel, the event will include more than 50 policy sessions over three days.

Discussions will focus on key areas such as energy efficiency, renewable deployment and regulatory innovation. Particular attention will be given to emerging policy frameworks and scalable solutions capable of accelerating the EU’s transition towards climate neutrality, in line with the 2030 and 2050 targets. The conference aims to foster evidence-based debate and promote best practices across Member States.

Innovation, SMEs and energy efficiency

The opening day will also host the EUSEW Awards ceremony, recognising excellence in three categories: Local Energy Action, Women in Energy and the newly introduced “SMEs Driving Energy Efficiency”. This new category reflects the growing role of small and medium-sized enterprises in delivering energy savings, particularly in buildings and industry, sectors that together account for over 60% of EU energy consumption.

The nine finalists will be announced on 5 May 2026, when the public voting process opens. This participatory mechanism reinforces stakeholder engagement and highlights innovative business models capable of scaling energy efficiency solutions across the European market.

Networking and citizen engagement

Beyond institutional dialogue, EUSEW 2026 will offer extensive networking opportunities, both onsite and online, including the Energy Fair, where companies and organisations will showcase technological innovations and sustainable energy initiatives.

The event also integrates youth participation through the Young Energy Ambassadors programme, involving 60 selected participants who will contribute intergenerational perspectives to policymaking. In parallel, hundreds of Sustainable Energy Days events will take place across Europe, extending the initiative’s reach and promoting local clean energy actions. To take part, registration is open on the official website of EU Sustainable Energy Week.

Cover: photo by EUSEW