An established global forum for energy and meteorology expertise

In 2011, we launched the first ICEM with the intention of providing a unique forum where meteorologists and energy industry experts could come together to share substantial knowledge and expertise across both sectors. The conference format has consistently offered an exciting, convivial, and productive environment in which to explore opportunities for collaboration.

From the outset, ICEM was designed with core values in mind: targeted and positive transformation of the energy system in the face of climate change and a commitment to inclusivity – for example, through its broad organizing committee, or the awards given to young specialists for the best oral presentation.

Our inaugural conference in Australia’s Gold Coast was a great success, attracting over 170 energy and meteorology specialists from 50 countries, proving the need for a collaborative, knowledge-sharing forum that spans both sectors. This event set the blueprint for subsequent ICEMs held in France (2013), the United States of America (2015), Italy (2017), China (2018), Denmark (2019), and most recently in Italy in 2023.

Under the aegis of the World Energy & Meteorology Council (WEMC) alongside numerous other colleagues and peers from the science and energy communities, we have seen ICEM grow and flourish. Today, it stands as an established global forum for world-leading research organisations, meteorological service providers, energy companies, and energy policy experts to engage in meaningful dialogue, share expertise, and drive innovation and action on climate and energy issues.

Why climate and weather information are critical to the energy industry

There has never been a more important time to make the most of this opportunity to explore the key issues investigated by scientists to target the needs of the energy industry.

The transition to sustainable energy requires a significant transformation in the way energy is produced, distributed, stored, and consumed, all while ensuring energy access and security. Central to this transition is a substantial increase in renewable energy production, which is a key element in global net-zero energy pathways, and critically dependent on weather and climate data. This transition is taking place against changing climates, a rise in extreme weather events, and uncertainties in meteorological and energy conditions, coupled with a continued reliance on fossil fuels for energy production, which are also exposed to the vagaries of weather. Rising electricity demand, especially due to the increasing electrification of the transport and heating sectors, further underscores the significance of meteorology in the energy transition.

The energy sector plays a fundamental part in this change, as the need to significantly reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming focuses attention on the energy transition – from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources and cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.

As scientists and energy sector experts, we are in a unique position to help guide this transition through the combined expertise within the scientific and energy communities, which regularly converge at ICEMs. The world-leading interactions at ICEM are instrumental in sharpening our focus on what is truly critical in advancing more sustainable and renewable energy systems.

Fourteen years on: seven ICEMs, and an exciting future ahead!

WEMC is proud of what we have achieved together with our many partners through this forum over the past 14 years. As weather-dependent energy systems continue to grow at an unprecedented pace, these conversations are becoming more crucial than ever.

Looking ahead, we are confident that ICEM 2025 will offer not only insightful discussions and pioneering collaborations but also a welcoming atmosphere. The Galzignano Terme Spa and Golf Resort provides an ideal setting to foster close connections and innovation – something that was highly praised by attendees of ICEM 2023. We believe this friendly, vibrant environment, which almost feels like a family gathering with shared events such as meals and entertainment, will be instrumental in ensuring another successful and memorable ICEM as we warmly welcome both returning participants and newcomers.