Smart Energy: Showcasing Women Driving Northern Ireland’s Renewable Energy Future

Thursday 19 February 2026

With just five weeks to go, RenewableNI is set to welcome business leaders, investors, policymakers and innovators to Smart Energy, Northern Ireland’s leading renewable electricity conference, on Thursday 26 March 2026 at the Europa Hotel, Belfast.

Smart Energy continues to grow year on year, attracting Executive Ministers, senior policymakers, CEOs of international companies and industry leaders. This year’s theme, “Developments for Delivering” focuses on the reforms and infrastructure required to turn renewable ambition into energy delivery and achieve the 80 per cent renewable electricity generation target by 2030.

Women Leading the Conversation
One of the highlights for women in business is the prominent role of female leadership at RenewableNI’s event.
Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, is confirmed as the keynote speaker, with a gender balance across the day’s panels.

Smart Energy also continues its commitment to elevating women through the Women in Renewables initiative. This year includes:

•   A dedicated networking area for Women in Renewables participants;
•   Opportunities to meet women who completed the mentoring programme;
•   A “Leading by Example” session highlighting female role models and their achievements in the sector.

These elements ensure that women’s voices and expertise are firmly represented across the conference content and networking spaces. An inclusive start time ensures those with careering responsibly don’t miss speakers.

Policy Momentum and Opportunities for Women in Business
The final design of the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG) has been published, an essential step toward unlocking private investment and long term energy security for Northern Ireland.
With the first auction expected in Q1 2027, Smart Energy will explore how businesses — including women-led companies across construction, engineering, legal services, manufacturing and professional services — can prepare to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the renewable electricity supply chain.

The agenda includes key topics with strong relevance to business growth and skills development:

•   Grid investment and infrastructure reform;
•   Developing Northern Ireland’s offshore wind sector;
•   Ensuring supply chain capacity and skills for delivery.

These themes reflect sector-wide challenges that create space for women innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders to shape the region’s clean energy transition.

Networking Designed for Connection and Collaboration
Smart Energy 2026 includes an exclusive networking reception the evening before the conference in Amelia Hall, plus a drinks reception and a business lunch - all included in the ticket price. These sessions will provide women in business with dedicated opportunities to build strategic relationships, connect with decision makers and share insights with leaders across sectors.

Women in Renewables participants will also have dedicated touchpoints to build visibility, meet peers and expand their networks.

Register for Smart Energy
Demand for Smart Energy continues to grow, and attendance is expected to exceed previous years. Registration is open now via the RenewableNI website.

Thursday 19 February 2026