Energy Sovereignty for Global Stability
Arrive Curious. Leave Inspired.
Energy Sovereignty for Global Stability
This year’s theme, Energy Sovereignty for Global Stability acknowledges that geopolitical conflicts are often triggered by competition over energy resources.
The 2026 Decentralised Energy Forum explores a future in which nations strengthen their energy sovereignty by leveraging their local resources while fostering international trade relationships focused on enabling technologies rather than dependence on imported fuels. Program topics include:
Dual use energy innovations
Microgrids for emergency preparedness
Grid-edge technologies for critical-load protection
AI-enabled energy security
Arctic sovereignty
Supply chain optimisation and international trade
Canada’s 7th annual Pitch Competition
What is the
Decentralised Energy Forum?
The Decentralised Energy Forum (DEF) is Canada’s only annual event dedicated to decentralised energy. The two-day forum brings industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of decentralised energy through real projects, partnerships, and investment opportunities.
DEF showcases successful innovations that support the transition to a resilient energy future — all within a highly connected environment designed for networking and business development.
Why Attend?
DEF brings together approximately 175 senior leaders from utilities, government, industry, investment, research and technology. In an intentionally collaborative setting, participants explore real projects, form strategic partnerships and identify solutions that strengthen energy sovereignty, security and resilience.
Attendees
Energy Retailers
Utilities
Project Developers
Entrepreneurs
Investors
Energy Co-operatives
Government Funders
Academics & Researchers
Public Sector Leaders
Equipment Manufacturers
Distributors
Business Development Opportunities
Listen to the Latest Market Insights
Find Strategic Partners
Discover New Technologies
Gain Market Access
Participate in Demonstration Projects
Meet Investors & Funders
What People Say About DEF
“DEF has helped us grow our business. We have connected with customers ready to pilot our technology, accessed valuable funding and a college-based facility where we could scale, and gained important insights into the future energy landscape. The strong sense of community also led to many meaningful relationships. I highly recommend this Forum.”
— Keith Cleland, Aqua-Cell Energy
“DEF 2025 explored the potential of quantum technology to create more powerful and secure energy systems. DEF is unique in its willingness to navigate uncharted territory and explore bleeding-edge innovations. Bringing these technologies into the energy sector takes genuine collaboration, not hype—and that collaborative spirit was evident in every conversation.”
— Emma Wong, EPRI
"Thanks to the engaging discussions and networking, we are teaming up with the Government of Montserrat to explore the potential of co-recovering energy and critical minerals from volcanic geofluids. We have benefitted considerably from conversations at the Decentralised Energy Forum!"
— Jonathan Blundy, Oxford University
“DEF is a rare event that combined a plethora of great attendees with the intimacy that only a smaller event provides all nestled into a drop dead gorgeous setting. I cannot recommend it highly enough.”
— Sean Murphy, Ping Things Inc.
"The pitch competition was a pivotal moment for us. It wasn't just a presentation; it was the catalyst that powered our fundraising journey. It provided the spark we needed to ignite our momentum, and just a few months later, we closed our deal – a remarkable achievement in such a short span.”
— Natasha Kostenuk, Ayrton Energy
“DEF offers an excellent opportunity to engage with experts shaping the future of energy. The exchange of practical insights and high-quality networking helped deepen our understanding of emerging challenges and collaboration opportunities.”