World Renewable Energy Congress

In August, Manchester proudly welcomed over 130 delegates from more than 50 countries to the World Renewable Energy Congress / Network (WREC / WREN), held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. As Manchester’s official Convention Bureau, Marketing Manchester was honoured to co-host this landmark event in partnership with the World Renewable Energy Network and Hyatt Hotels. Together, a congress was curated that not only advanced global dialogue on renewable energy but also showcased Manchester’s leadership in sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of WREN 2025 was built on strong local partnerships. Manchester City Council, Manchester Convention Bureau, Manchester ABID and our region’s leading universities - University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Salford, and the University of Greater Manchester - worked collaboratively to ensure the congress reflected both global perspectives and local priorities. Together, a programme was designed that aligned with Manchester’s strategic goals in sustainability, education, social innovation, and inclusive growth. This synergy was evident throughout the event - from the keynote addresses to the university tours and engagement activities.

Congress Highlights

Over four days, WREN 2025 delivered a rich programme of keynote speeches, technical sessions, and panel debates. Contributions from 51 countries brought diverse perspectives and solutions to the forefront. Key themes included:

• AI-driven energy systems: Transforming predictive analytics, optimisation, and smart grid management.
• Hydrogen technologies and Wind-to-H₂ systems: Accelerating pathways to decarbonisation.
• Energy storage innovations: Enhancing grid stability and enabling decentralised power solutions.
• Solar and wind advancements: From floating offshore turbines to bifacial photovoltaic technologies.
• Circular economy strategies: Integrating renewable energy with resource recovery and urban sustainability.

Academic Integration

A standout feature of WREN 2025 was the deep integration with Manchester’s academic institutions. Delegates toured engineering faculties across all four universities, gaining insight into cutting-edge research and facilities. Senior professors and lecturers also contributed to the congress through keynote sessions, enriching the dialogue with local expertise and global relevance.

Beyond the Congress

For Manchester, WREN 2025 was more than an academic gathering - it was a celebration of our city’s identity. Delegates experienced not only our world-class universities and industrial innovation hubs, but also our vibrant communities, cultural diversity, and commitment to inclusivity.

The congress reaffirmed Manchester’s role as a global convenor for sustainability and innovation.

It was a privilege to host WREN 2025, and we look forward to continuing our work to support transformative events that shape a better future.

Professor Abdul Salam K. Darwish, Deputy Chair of WREC and Lecturer in Civil Engineering and Environment at the University of Greater Manchester concluded:

“WREN 2025 has demonstrated once again that collaboration across borders, disciplines, and sectors is the only way forward. Manchester has not only hosted us but served as a stage for innovation and partnership, showing the power of uniting academia, industry, policy, business, and community.

On behalf of the organising committee, we extend our sincere gratitude to the Manchester City Council, the Manchester Convention Bureau, and the University of Greater Manchester for their invaluable support and sponsorship, which have been essential in making WREN 2025 a success. Together, we are building the foundations for a sustainable global future.”