Innovation is often compared with ideas and inventions. However, innovation literally means “new feature” or “renewal”. And that is exactly what the future energy system is all about. Most technologies do not have to be reinvented, they already exist. However, the use and combination of technical solutions must be innovative in order to guarantee a secure, cost-effective and environmentally compatible energy supply in the future as well. Digitisation, decentralisation, democratisation and decarbonisation are the major trends of the coming years. The integration of renewables, flexibility in generation, demand-side management, storage technologies, power-to-x, sector coupling and e-mobility will form the technical basis. The innovative use of these solution options is the real challenge of energy system transformation.

This will be discussed at this year’s VGB Congress, which will take place in Salzburg, Austria, from September 3 to 5, 2019.

Under the motto

„Innovationen in der Stromerzeugung“

we invite you to Salzburg.

On the plenary day, well-known speakers await you to discuss with you fundamental questions and aspects of innovation for the future energy system and its significance for companies - whether plant operators, manufacturers, developers or service providers. We are also looking forward to welcoming Dr. Heinrich Schellhorn, Landeshauptmann-Stellvertreter des Landes Salzburg, Dr. Barbara Unterkofler, Vizebürgermeisterin of the City of Salzburg, and Dr. Leonhard Schitter, President of our Austrian energy partner association Oesterreich Energie.

The lectures and discussions on the second day of the VGB Congress will focus on five topics:

• Innovative technologies for the future
• Flexibility
• System stability
• Digitalisation
• Reduction of emissions

We are continuing the successful “Dialogue Forum” format with sufficient room for discussion this year with rounds on “system stability”, “digitisation” and “reducing emissions”.

Innovative start-ups will also present their ideas and projects at the plenary session.

An exciting and varied programme awaits you.