title-wind

Exclusive Articles

The Future of Energy Unfolds in Rimini: A Look Ahead to KEY 2026

Published in: Wind, Digital Blog

The Future of Energy Unfolds in Rimini: A Look Ahead to KEY 2026 image

The energy transition is accelerating, and wind power is at its core. With Europe aiming for approximately 500 GW of total wind capacity by 2030, the sector is more strategic than ever. Against this backdrop, the upcoming edition of KEY – The Energy Transition Expo, taking place from 4th to 6th March 2026 at the Rimini Expo Centre, promises to be a pivotal event for the global energy community.

Organized by the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), KEY has established itself as a leading platform for energy transition and efficiency across Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean basin.

Wind Power Takes Center Stage

Wind energy is a primary driver of the green revolution, and KEY 2026 will reflect this with a comprehensive focus on the sector.

  • WEM (Wind Expo for Med): A dedicated exhibition area will showcase key technologies, from onshore and offshore plants to mini-wind turbines. It serves as a meeting point for the entire supply chain, including turbine manufacturers, O&M specialists, developers, and investors.
  • Su.port: Debuting in 2025, this feature highlights ports as new energy hubs essential for logistics, floating wind assembly, and hydrogen storage. Topics like dock electrification and cold ironing will be key discussion points.

Recent data underscores the urgency: Europe installed 6.8 GW of new wind capacity in the first half of 2025 alone, bringing total capacity to 291 GW. KEY 2026 offers the ideal setting to forge partnerships and drive the market toward even more ambitious goals.

A Global Hub for Innovation and Connection

KEY 2026 is set to be the first edition to occupy the entire Rimini Expo Centre, organizing exhibitors into seven thematic areas:

  • Photovoltaics
  • Wind Power
  • Energy Storage
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Electric Mobility
  • Sustainable Urban Transformation
  • Hydrogen (HYPE - Hydrogen Power Expo)

For the first time, a dedicated hall will focus on Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) and Finance, recognizing their strategic role in developing utility-scale projects.

The event prioritizes international growth, targeting key regions like North and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Balkans, and major European markets. Supported by the Italian Trade Agency and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, top buyers and delegations from around the world will gather to exchange knowledge and discover cutting-edge technologies.

Fostering Talent and Research

KEY 2026 goes beyond business; it is a catalyst for innovation and skills.

  • Innovation District: An open hub connecting green start-ups and SMEs with investors.
  • Green Jobs & Skills: An initiative promoting energy transition skills and aligning talent supply with demand.
  • Call for Papers: A commitment to science, inviting contributions from universities and research institutions to be published in QualEnergia Science.

Unlock the Future of PPAs

Preceding the main event, KEY CHOICE – Unlock the Future of PPAs will take place on 3rd March 2026. This B2B event focuses entirely on Power Purchase Agreements, bringing together energy-intensive companies, producers, and traders to facilitate networking and contract negotiation.

More from across PES