“Few countries are better placed than Ireland” – Europe’s renewable energy leaders to gather in Dublin this October

Ireland is uniquely positioned to play a leading role in Europe’s clean energy future. With abundant wind and solar resources, growing energy storage capacity and one of Europe's strongest renewable energy pipelines, Ireland has the opportunity to strengthen its own energy security while supporting Europe's wider competitiveness and energy independence.

That opportunity, and what it means for Europe's energy future, will be at the heart of the first Renewable Energy Expo Ireland, taking place at Dublin’s RDS on 21-22 October 2026.

We are delighted to welcome Tinne Van der Straeten, CEO of WindEurope and former Belgian Minister for Energy, to the event. On Day 2 of the Expo, Thursday 22 October, Tinne will join Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, for a keynote session, A European Perspective on Wind Energy (10:00-10:30).

Tinne will explore how Europe can accelerate the clean energy transition through investment in electricity grids, faster electrification and policies that enable renewable energy to strengthen competitiveness, energy security and economic growth.

Tinne has led WindEurope since February 2026. Prior to joining the organisation, she served as Belgium’s Minister for Energy, steering the country through the energy crisis and helping to strengthen European energy cooperation. During Belgium’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2024, she chaired the European Energy Council, focusing on the development of energy grid infrastructure and Europe's energy independence.

At Renewable Energy Expo Ireland, Tinne will discuss how Ireland and Europe can unlock the full potential of renewable energy, the importance of investing in grids and accelerating electrification, and the actions needed to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and energy security. She will also explore why Ireland is particularly well placed to benefit from the energy transition, with the potential to become one of Europe’s leading renewable energy economies.

Delivered by Wind Energy Ireland, Solar Ireland and Energy Storage Ireland, Renewable Energy Expo Ireland will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, developers and technology providers from across Europe to discuss how renewable energy can power a secure, competitive and sustainable future.