Call for abstracts
EN26 invites the networks industry, researchers, and innovators to submit an abstract for consideration in the 2026 program. This is your opportunity to share insights, research, case studies, and solutions that will shape the future of Australia’s energy networks.
Key dates
- Submissions open: 20 May 2025
- Deadline: 11 August 2025
- Notifications sent: 26 September 2025
- Final program released: November 2025
Who should submit?
We welcome abstracts from professionals across the energy networks sector and its supply chain, including:
- Industry experts (transmission & distribution, renewable energy, gas, electrification, digitalisation)
- Researchers & academics (universities, research organisations, think tanks)
- Government & regulatory bodies (policy leaders, energy authorities)
Innovators & technology providers (startups, AI, grid tech, software developers).
If you have insights, research, or case studies that align with the four themes, we encourage you to submit!
Submission requirements
All abstracts must be submitted via the EN26 online portal and include:
- Abstract summary (max. 300 words) – Clearly define the topic, objectives, and key takeaways
- Presentation title (max. 120 characters) – Concise and engaging
- Key takeaways (max. 150 words) – What attendees will gain from your presentation
- Presenter biography (max. 100 words) – Relevant experience and credentials
- Presentation type – Oral Presentation (10–15 minutes + Q&A)
- Theme & Industry topic – Select from EN26 themes
- Net zero energy system principles (if applicable) – How your topic aligns with clean, resilient, and equitable energy solutions
- Co-authors (if any) – List all contributors.
Submissions must be original and not previously presented at another Australian conference before EN26.
Presentation format
Oral Presentation (TED-style)
- 10-15-minute presentation + moderated panel and audience Q&A
- Interactive format designed for industry engagement
- Best suited for in-depth case studies, research findings, or new innovation.
Themes & Industry Topics
Abstracts should address current challenges and future trends in Australia’s energy networks, focusing on the four key themes of EN26:
1. Gridlock or greatness: Meeting the data-driven energy surge
Discuss the challenges and opportunities posed by the rise of data centres, AI, and big data technologies in the energy transition.
2. Hardwired for change: Regulation, innovation, and action
Future-proofing of Australia’s energy networks through regulatory reform and innovation to meet digital demands and extreme weather events.
3. Grid zero: Building Australia's net-zero powerhouse
Explore how Australia can align infrastructure, technology, and policy to lead the global energy transition ahead of COP31.
4. Power without permission: Who gets to shape the future?
Explore how energy sectors can earn societal trust and redefine Australia’s energy story to meet the needs of our communities.
Selection criteria
The Program Committee is seeking abstracts that:
- Address current challenges and future trends in the energy sector
- Offer new research, case studies, or industry insights
- Provide practical takeaways and real-world applications
- Align with the EN26 themes
- Demonstrate technical accuracy and originality
- Are original and have not been previously presented at another Australian conference before EN26.
Case studies and real-world applications are highly regarded.
Review process
All abstracts undergo a blind review by the EN26 Program Committee, which includes:
- Senior representatives from Energy Networks Australia
- Experts from ENA member organisations (electricity transmission and distribution and gas distribution networks)
- Industry and academic leaders with subject-matter expertise.
Abstracts will be assessed on: originality, relevance, and contribution to industry discussions. All decisions made by the Program Committee are final.
Terms & Conditions
By submitting an abstract, you agree that:
- Your submission is original and has not been presented at another Australian conference before EN26
- Accepted presenters must register and pay for a conference pass by 10 October 2025 to confirm their session
- All accepted speakers cover their own travel and accommodation costs
- You consent to the publication of your abstract and biography in the EN26 conference materials.
Next steps – submit your abstract
- Submissions open 20 May 2025 – mark your calendar
- Start thinking about your abstract – explore potential topics and ideas to showcase at EN26
- Stay informed – sign up for updates to receive notifications.
