EPMG at the International Energy Conference 2026

29 Jun 2026

A keynote address and presentations from EPMG/Sustainability Institute researchers at IEW 2026, Cape Town.

Members of University College Cork's Energy Policy & Modelling Group (EPMG) were delighted to contribute to the International Energy Workshop (IEW) 2026, hosted by the University of Cape Town. The event brought together leading researchers, policymakers, and energy systems analysts from around the world to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the global energy transition.

Professor Hannah Daly delivered a keynote address exploring the theme of climate overshoot and the role that energy systems modelling can play in supporting more ambitious national action to return from overshoot pathways. Her presentation highlighted how modelling can inform policy decisions, identify feasible mitigation strategies, and support countries in accelerating emissions reductions while maintaining energy security and social equity.

EPMG researchers also presented their latest work across a range of emerging energy and sustainability topics.

Neha Jaggeshar presented research on novel proteins and their implications for future energy demand. The work examined how shifts in food production and consumption could influence energy systems, highlighting the importance of considering evolving dietary trends within long-term energy planning.

Fatemeh Rostami presented research on the energy security of Ireland's net-zero transition under conditions of geopolitical uncertainty and supply-chain disruptions. Her work explored potential risks to Ireland's energy transition and demonstrated how energy systems modelling can support the development of more resilient pathways to net zero.

The workshop provided a valuable opportunity to share research, engage with international colleagues, and contribute to important discussions on the future of energy systems and climate action.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the IEW 2026 organisers for the invitation and to the University of Cape Town for hosting such an engaging and successful event. It was also a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends from across the energy modelling community, particularly current and former members of UCC's Energy Policy & Modelling Group.

We look forward to continuing these collaborations and contributing to the evidence base that supports ambitious, resilient, and equitable energy transitions worldwide.