Global energy leaders will return to Perth next month, with the City of Perth hosting the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP) Annual General Meeting and Conference from 9 to 12 November.
The four-day event will bring together mayors, industry leaders, researchers and international delegations to strengthen global partnerships, showcase Western Australian expertise and create new opportunities for local businesses.
As Australia's only WECP member city and a founding member of the international network, Perth plays an important role in connecting energy cities and supporting collaboration on the industry's future.
This year's delegation will include WECP President and Mayor of Esbjerg, Jesper Frost Rasmussen, alongside representatives from Groningen, Cape Town, Karamay, Kobe, Houston, Calgary and Aberdeen.
Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said Perth's global standing in energy brought both opportunity and responsibility.
"Perth is one of the world's most important energy cities, and with that position comes a responsibility to help shape the industry's future," Mr Reynolds said.
"We take that responsibility seriously. Bringing global energy leaders together, sharing our expertise and tackling the challenges ahead is part of the leadership role Perth should be playing.
"And importantly, these relationships create real opportunities for Western Australian businesses, opening doors to new markets, investment and jobs."
The City is working with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA (CCIWA) to connect visiting delegations with local businesses through targeted introductions, business matching and networking opportunities.
WECP member cities have also been encouraged to bring industry representatives and identify businesses interested in engaging with the WA market.
The conference program will focus on energy transition, decarbonisation and emerging technologies, with discussions and site visits showcasing WA's energy infrastructure, innovation and industry capabilities.
Mr Reynolds said the conference was about delivering outcomes well beyond the event itself.
"Western Australia has helped power economies around the world for decades. We have the knowledge, the technology and the people to play an equally important role in the future of energy.
"By bringing the world's energy leaders to Perth, we're strengthening the partnerships that will drive innovation, investment and economic growth for years to come."
The conference returns to Perth following the City's hosting of the event in 2023.
