The Distributed Energy Show 2027 – Birmingham, UK

What to expect

The Distributed Energy Show 2027 is recognised as the United Kingdom’s leading free-to-attend conference and exhibition for flexible, renewable and decentralised energy systems. The event is built around a clear principle that the future of energy generation is flexible, decentralised and renewable, and it provides a practical forum where energy users, network operators and the entire energy supply chain come together to see technology in action.

Visitors can expect the widest array of technologies for onsite and localised heat and power generation, alongside the infrastructure, software and components necessary to connect to the energy network and implement a low cost, low carbon energy strategy. The show covers solar systems, gas turbines, wind turbines, combined heat and power, energy storage systems, small hydro, fuel cells, smart energy systems and platforms, virtual power plants and the enabling software that ties them together.

The event is part of Energy Technology Live, which also includes The Energy Storage Show. With a single registration, visitors gain access to six co-located shows and seven dedicated conference theatres covering battery technology, advanced materials, ceramics, vehicle electrification, energy storage and distributed energy. This creates a powerful cross sector environment where commercial users, local authorities, property developers and industrial energy managers can engage directly with suppliers who are at the forefront of the energy transition. Over 5,000 visitors, 200 exhibitors and more than 150 speakers are expected across the platform.

Event dates

Event Dates: 16th & 17th June 2027

Event Duration: Two days of exhibition and conference

Opening Hours: Exhibition open from 09:30 to 17:00 on Day One and from 09:30 to 16:30 on Day Two. Conference theatres operate from 10:00 to 16:30 on both days.

Venue: NEC, Birmingham, UK

Admission: Free to attend for all industry professionals with advance registration

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Venue & exhibition site

The show takes place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, the UK’s premier exhibition venue. The NEC is centrally located in the heart of the country and offers over 190,000 square metres of indoor exhibition space, excellent logistics for heavy equipment and outstanding visitor facilities. It is widely regarded as the natural home for large scale energy and industrial events.

The venue address is National Exhibition Centre, North Avenue, Marston Green, Birmingham B40 1NT, United Kingdom. The site has its own railway station and is directly linked to Birmingham Airport via a free Air-Rail Link. Inside the venue, visitors will find restaurants, cafes, business lounges, free Wi-Fi and fully accessible facilities. The exhibition halls are interconnected, allowing seamless movement between The Distributed Energy Show, The Energy Storage Show and the other co-located events including Battery Cells & Systems Expo, Vehicle Electrification Expo, The Advanced Materials Show and The Advanced Ceramics Show. Conference theatres are positioned directly on the show floor for easy access between product demonstrations and sessions.

Full event programme

The full event programme is designed to provide actionable insight for organisations looking to reduce energy bills, increase resilience and achieve sustainability targets. It combines a technology exhibition with a comprehensive free conference and a series of expert led features.

The exhibition showcases cutting edge technologies from companies at the forefront of the energy transition. Visitors can see complete systems as well as components, services and related software. The range includes CHP units, gas engines, solar PV and inverters, wind solutions, fuel cells, heat pumps, energy management platforms, metering, switchgear, cabling and grid connection solutions.

The conference is a central feature, with over 150 speakers across multiple theatres. Each theatre begins with a notable keynote address from field experts, followed by a day of insightful sessions, lively debate and in depth discussion. The agenda is curated to cover business models, technology options, practical considerations and policy developments. Sessions include topics such as strengthening energy resilience, understanding the role of hydrogen and fuel cells in the decentralised energy space, unlocking the power of hydrogen, energy storage deployment, net zero targets, AI and digital innovation, district heating, regulation and investment.

The programme also includes exhibitor interviews, networking events and post show conference materials for registered attendees, ensuring that learning continues beyond the live event.

Key speakers & keynote speakers

The speaker faculty is drawn from across government, industry, network operators, energy suppliers and technology providers, providing both strategic vision and practical implementation experience.

The conference regularly features senior representatives from organisations such as BEIS and DESNZ, Ofgem, the Association for Decentralised Energy, Scottish Renewables, CIBSE and the Environment Agency. Recent and expected speakers include Lord Callanan from BEIS, Dr Jan Rosenow from the Regulatory Assistance Project, Patrick Allcorn from BEIS, Caroline Bragg from the ADE, Helen Melone from Scottish Renewables, Steve Hunt from CIBSE and Richard Fielden from the BDA, as well as representatives from MCS and other regulatory bodies.

Industry speakers include experts from Centrica, Clarke Energy, SSE, Rolls Royce, Bosch, Ecotricity, Schneider Electric, Edina, Vattenfall, Conrad Energy, Octopus Energy, UK Power Networks, SP Energy Networks, Elexon, Modo Energy, Zenobe, Flexitricity, Huawei, ABB, Vattenfall, NESO and Siemens. Technical specialists such as James Mitchell, Head of Business Development at Clarke Energy, and Gabor Botyanszki, International Partnerships and Sales Manager at Heatventors, provide detailed insight into energy storage and heat solutions.

The mix of senior policy makers setting out strategic vision alongside practically focused sessions on what reforms mean on the ground is a defining characteristic of the programme.

Conference sessions & tracks

The conference is organised into themed tracks that address the full spectrum of distributed energy challenges and opportunities.

Strengthening Energy Resilience
This track examines how commercial and industrial users can protect themselves against supply concerns and price volatility. It covers onsite generation, demand side response, peak shaving, microgrids and the integration of multiple technologies to create resilient low carbon energy strategies. Speakers from Clarke Energy, British Sugar and Centrica have contributed to this theme.

Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in Decentralised Energy
This track explores the role of hydrogen and fuel cells technology in the decentralised energy space, including production, storage, transportation and use in power generation. Sessions feature contributions from Rolls Royce, Bosch, Centrica and the Energy Systems Catapult, discussing real projects and commercial models.

Energy Storage, Flexibility and Smart Systems
Delivered in partnership with The Energy Storage Show, this track focuses on battery and energy storage systems for large scale applications ranging from utility and grid scale systems through to onsite and domestic technologies. It includes virtual power plants, smart energy platforms, AI and digital innovation and market mechanisms such as Power Responsive services.

Policy, Regulation, Investment and Net Zero
This track provides updates on regulation, policy and market reform, as well as investment models and pathways to net zero. It includes perspectives from Ofgem, DESNZ, Elexon, Octopus Energy and investment specialists, helping attendees understand how to navigate compliance and capitalise on incentives.

Session times & schedule

The event schedule is designed to maximise learning, networking and time on the exhibition floor. Each day begins with exhibition doors opening and welcome networking, allowing visitors to meet exhibitors before conference sessions start.

Mid morning sessions open with keynote addresses from field experts, providing an overarching view into central themes driving the industry. These are followed by a series of panel sessions and presentations that dive into specific technologies and business cases. A dedicated lunch period allows for extended networking, exhibition viewing and pre arranged business meetings.

Afternoon sessions continue with deep dives into technology options and practical implementation steps, with lively debate where attendees have the chance to have their say and question experts. The day concludes with final panels and informal networking on the show floor. All sessions are free to attend and operate on a first come first served basis, with conference materials made available after the show for registered visitors.

Ticket types & registration

The event is free to attend, reflecting its mission to accelerate adoption of distributed energy solutions.

Visitor Pass
The standard pass for all industry professionals. It provides access to The Distributed Energy Show, The Energy Storage Show and all co-located events, including seven conference theatres over two days. It also includes access to post show conference materials and the event networking app. The price is USD 0.

VIP Buyer Pass
An invitation only pass for senior energy managers, facilities managers, local authority representatives, property developers and network operators with active projects. It includes fast track entry, access to the VIP lounge, hosted refreshments and personalised meeting support. Approved applicants receive the pass at USD 0.

Exhibitor Pass
For exhibiting company staff. It includes access to the exhibitor portal, lead retrieval tools and exhibitor briefings. It is included as part of the exhibitor package, which starts from approximately USD 5,200 for shell scheme options based on previous editions.

Conference Speaker and Partner Pass
For confirmed speakers, association partners and media. Includes backstage access to speaker lounge and priority seating. Price is USD 0 for approved participants.

Registration deadlines

Early registration is strongly recommended at least four weeks before the event. Early registrants receive regular updates on exhibitors, speakers and agenda, plus early access to the networking app to plan meetings and build a personalised agenda.

Standard online registration remains open until 24 hours before the event opens. After that, visitors can register on site at the NEC atrium. On site registration is free but may involve queues during peak periods.

Applications for special programmes such as the VIP Buyer Programme and hosted buyer meetings typically close around six weeks before the event to allow time for qualification and scheduling. Exhibitor stand bookings for premium locations close about three months before the show, with final bookings accepted subject to availability.

Exhibitor list & major companies

The exhibitor community is made up of companies at the forefront of the energy transition, representing the full supply chain from generation to management and grid connection.

Over 90 to 200 exhibitors are expected depending on the co-located configuration, with more than 5,000 visitors across the platform. Confirmed and previous exhibitors include Centrica, Clarke Energy, SSE, Rolls Royce, Bosch, Ecotricity, Schneider Electric, Edina, Vattenfall, Conrad Energy, ClearVue.Business, AlphaESS, Bender UK, Cheesecake Energy, Electricity North West Construction and Maintenance, Eddicy, Enspec, EWT DirectWind UK Ltd, Himoinsa Power Solutions Ltd, Joulen, Nibs, Norhybrid, Noventa Energy, OVO, Power Responsive, Waxman Energy and many more.

Exhibitors showcase technologies including solar systems, gas turbines, wind turbines, combined heat and power, energy storage systems, small hydro, fuel cells, smart energy systems and platforms, virtual power plants, heat pumps, inverters, switchgear, energy management software and grid infrastructure components.

A full exhibitor list is published on the official website and is updated regularly in the lead up to the event.

Exhibition halls & floor plan

The event occupies large interconnected halls at the NEC, with a layout designed to encourage discovery and cross sector engagement.

One area is dedicated to The Distributed Energy Show and The Energy Storage Show, featuring generation technologies, storage systems and smart infrastructure. Adjacent halls host Battery Cells & Systems Expo, Vehicle Electrification Expo, The Advanced Materials Show and The Advanced Ceramics Show. This arrangement allows visitors interested in energy storage to easily explore battery cell technology and advanced materials in the same visit.

Conference theatres are located directly within the halls as open plan theatres, ensuring that attendees can move instantly between live demonstrations and conference content. Central networking lounges, business meeting zones and catering areas are positioned between halls. The floor plan is published approximately two weeks before the event and can be downloaded from the official website. Stand numbers are sequential, with Founding Partners and major sponsors positioned on main aisles.

Networking & business meetings

Networking is a core part of the event experience, with organisers facilitating extensive business and educational connections over two days.

The free event app allows visitors to search the attendee list, view exhibitor profiles and request meetings in advance. AI powered matchmaking recommends relevant contacts based on interests in distributed generation, storage, hydrogen or energy management.

Structured networking includes business matchmaking for energy users and suppliers, dedicated sessions for local authorities and property developers to meet solution providers, and informal networking drinks on the show floor. The co-located format is itself a major networking benefit, bringing together energy executives, engineers, commercial users and the entire supply chain working towards the UK’s transition to a clean, sustainable and efficient energy system.

The conference features lively debate and audience participation, giving visitors the chance to have their say and find out more from experts directly.

Industry sectors & highlights

The Distributed Energy Show serves a wide range of sectors where onsite and localised energy can deliver cost, carbon and resilience benefits.

Key sectors include commercial and industrial energy users, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, education, local authorities, property developers, housing associations, utilities and network operators, engineering consultancies and energy service companies.

Event highlights include the UK’s widest array of technologies for onsite and localised heat and power generation, practical case studies showing low cost, low carbon energy strategies in action, expert panels on hydrogen and fuel cells, and insights into flexibility markets and virtual power plants. The co-location with The Energy Storage Show is a particular highlight, as it allows visitors to explore how storage can enhance the value of distributed generation and provide grid services.

The event also highlights the role of decentralisation in the broader energy transition, with technological advances enabling large and ever increasing numbers of sources to contribute to greater efficiency, reliability and sustainability whilst simultaneously reducing costs to end users.

Event rules & visitor information

All attendees must wear their official event badge at all times inside the exhibition halls. Badges are non-transferable and must be shown on request by security or organisers.

The event is strictly for trade and industry professionals. For safety reasons, no one under the age of 16 is permitted on the show floor during build-up, live days or breakdown.

Photography and video for personal use is permitted, but commercial filming requires prior permission from the organisers. Visitors are expected to adhere to a professional code of conduct, with the organisers committed to providing a harassment free environment for all participants.

The dress code is business attire, with safety shoes recommended in certain areas where equipment is demonstrated. The venue operates a zero to landfill policy, and visitors are encouraged to use digital brochures and return badge holders for reuse. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue.

How to get there

The NEC is one of the most accessible venues in the UK, located eight miles east of Birmingham city centre with direct motorway, rail and air connections.

If you are travelling by car, the venue has direct access from Junction 6 of the M42 motorway. From the M6, M40 and M1, you can connect via the M42. The postcode for navigation is B40 1NT. Signage for the NEC is well established on all approach roads.

If you are travelling by train, Birmingham International Railway Station is directly connected to the NEC via a covered walkway. The station is served by Avanti West Coast and West Midlands Trains, with direct services from London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other major cities.

If you are travelling by air, Birmingham Airport is just five minutes away via a free Air-Rail Link that connects the airport terminal to Birmingham International Station and the NEC.

Public transport & parking

Public transport to the NEC is frequent and well integrated with the venue. Trains run regularly to Birmingham International from across the UK, with the covered walkway providing direct access to the halls. Local buses operated by National Express West Midlands, including routes 900 and X1, connect Birmingham city centre and Coventry to the NEC and airport. National Express coaches also serve Birmingham Airport and Birmingham International Station.

For those driving, the NEC has more than 16,000 parking spaces across several car parks. Parking charges apply and are typically around USD 20 to USD 22 per day for public parking when booked online in advance. Free shuttle buses operate from the more distant car parks to the exhibition halls. Electric vehicle charging points are available in selected car parks, and designated accessible parking bays are located close to hall entrances. On site staff are available to direct visitors to the correct parking area for their hall.

Accommodation areas

Birmingham offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets, and early booking is advised as hotels fill quickly during major NEC events.

The most convenient options are the NEC and Birmingham Airport hotels, which are within walking distance of the venue. These include Hilton Birmingham Metropole, Crowne Plaza NEC and Novotel Birmingham Airport. Staying here is ideal for exhibitors and for those with early morning meetings.

Birmingham city centre is another popular choice. It is only a short train ride from the NEC and offers a wide choice of hotels, from budget to luxury, as well as restaurants and evening entertainment. Popular areas include Broad Street, Brindleyplace and Digbeth.

Solihull and Coventry, located to the south of the NEC, offer boutique hotels and often competitive rates with easy motorway access. Resorts World, which is adjacent to the NEC, provides an accommodation and entertainment complex with dining and leisure facilities.

Previous year’s highlights

The previous edition welcomed over 5,000 visitors, more than 200 exhibitors and over 150 speakers across the Energy Technology Live platform. The event was recognised as the UK’s foremost gathering for energy innovation and decentralised energy systems.

Highlights included keynote addresses on energy resilience, expert panels on the role of hydrogen and fuel cells featuring Rolls Royce and Bosch, and practical sessions on integrating solar, CHP and storage to reduce energy bills. The exhibitor community showcased cutting edge technologies from companies including Clarke Energy, Centrica, Schneider Electric and Vattenfall.

Attendees praised the free to attend conference quality and the ability to see technology in action, with many reporting that the event provided all the information they needed to incorporate the latest distributed energy solutions into their facility or network. The co-location with battery and materials shows enabled valuable cross sector conversations.

Official registration & tickets

All registrations are handled through the official website. Attendance is free for industry professionals and includes access to all co-located shows, all conference theatres and post show materials.

Official Website: https://distributedenergyshow.com/

Contact: info@energytechlive.com

Phone: 01273 957116

Online registration is recommended to avoid queues and to receive pre-show updates on exhibitors and speakers. On site registration is available during event hours at the NEC atrium.