CIGRE Australia 2027 Heads to the Gold Coast, Queensland
Australia's energy transition is entering a defining phase. While significant progress has been made in integrating renewable generation, the pace and scale of transformation required over the coming decades are unprecedented. Achieving Australia's emissions reduction targets will depend not only on replacing conventional generation with low-carbon alternatives, but also on expanding and modernising the transmission and distribution networks to support increasing electrification across transport, industry and the built environment, and the rapid growth of data centres.
The result is an electricity sector facing one of the most complex engineering challenges in its history. As new technologies, distributed energy resources and digital solutions reshape the power system, collaboration, technical innovation and the exchange of practical experience will be critical to ensuring the network remains secure, reliable and resilient throughout the transition.
Rainer Korte, CIGRE Australia Chair, says the 2027 conference comes at a pivotal time for the electricity sector. "Australia's power system continues to undergo one of the most significant transformations in its history. As the pace of decarbonisation accelerates, the industry must address increasingly complex technical, operational and investment challenges. The CIGRE Australia Conference provides an important forum for bringing together experts from across the global power systems community to exchange knowledge, share practical experience and collaborate on the solutions that will underpin a secure, reliable and sustainable energy future."
Following the success of its 2025 integrated conference series, CIGRE Australia is preparing to welcome the global power systems community back to Australia for its next major event. From 17–19 August 2027, the CIGRE Australia Conference, CIDER27 and SEAPAC27 will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together technical experts, researchers and industry leaders to explore the future of power systems.
The 2025 event attracted more than 1,000 delegates from 20 countries and reaffirmed the importance of collaboration across the Australian and international electricity sectors. Building on this momentum, the 2027 conference will continue CIGRE Australia's commitment to fostering technical excellence, knowledge exchange and industry collaboration while supporting the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
Technical programme
The conference will feature a comprehensive technical programme covering the challenges and opportunities shaping the modern power system. Through peer-reviewed papers, panel discussions and technical presentations, delegates will examine topics including grid transformation, renewable energy integration, system resilience, digitalisation, asset management and the technologies enabling the next generation of electricity networks.
As in previous years, the conference will provide a platform for utilities, manufacturers, consultants, researchers and policymakers to share practical experience alongside the latest technical developments.
Exhibition and networking
Running alongside the conference, a large industry exhibition will showcase the latest products, technologies and services supporting the electricity sector. The exhibition will provide delegates with opportunities to engage directly with solution providers, discover emerging innovations and discuss practical applications with industry experts.
Networking continues to be a defining feature of CIGRE Australia conferences. A comprehensive social programme will create opportunities for delegates from across Australia and overseas to reconnect with colleagues, establish new partnerships and strengthen relationships within the global CIGRE community.
A destination for the international CIGRE community
Located on Queensland's renowned Gold Coast, the conference venue combines world-class facilities with a destination well suited to international visitors. Its accessibility, coastal setting and vibrant hospitality offering make it an ideal location for delegates and accompanying guests alike.
Further information, including the Call for Papers, exhibition and sponsorship opportunities, and delegate registration, will be announced over the coming months.
CIGRE Australia looks forward to welcoming delegates to the Gold Coast in August 2027.
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