Georgia Energy Exhibition and Forum 2024

In July 2024, Tbilisi was the stage for the Georgia Energy Exhibition and Forum, held at the Expo Georgia Exhibition Center. This landmark event attracted over 2,700 attendees, including industry leaders, government officials, investors, and experts from both local and international arenas. The forum provided a dynamic platform for in-depth discussions and collaborations focused on Georgia’s renewable energy potential and its transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

Key highlights of the forum included insightful discussions on hydropower, solar, wind, and other alternative energy sources, with a particular emphasis on the critical importance of energy independence and security for Georgia. Separate panels were dedicated to each renewable energy source, delving deeper into ongoing projects, necessary reforms, and the crucial importance of financing renewable energy initiatives.

Among the critical reforms highlighted were the modernisation of Georgia’s national grid to better accommodate renewable energy and the introduction of regulatory frameworks aimed at attracting foreign investment. Ongoing projects such as the Georgia-Romania Black Sea Submarine HVDC Cable Project and the expansion of the Qartli Wind Farm were also discussed, showcasing Georgia’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity. The Forum also featured in-depth discussions on global trends in solar PV and storage technologies. These sessions explored the latest advancements in the field, including innovations in equipment selection, and the emergence of new market opportunities.

The discussions also covered the dynamics of energy trading, the integration of renewable energy into the grid, and the impact of market reforms on energy trade. Key topics included the development of Georgia’s energy exchange platforms, cross-border energy trade, and how these could enhance the country’s position as a strategic energy hub in the region. These discussions were crucial in understanding how market mechanisms can support the transition to a more sustainable energy system​.

The importance of financing was a recurring theme, with experts emphasising that securing investment is vital for scaling renewable energy projects in Georgia. Discussions covered various strategies to boost green finance, including the introduction of Georgia’s first Green Bonds and the role of international financial institutions in supporting large-scale renewable projects.

The exhibition component of the event also presented numerous opportunities for companies to showcase their innovative products and services, facilitating the development of business relationships and potential investments in Georgia’s burgeoning renewable energy sector. Among the exhibitors were Frosio Next, Enovus, and Shine Energy.

Organised by Invest in Network, the Georgian Renewable Energy Development Association (GREDA), and Expo Georgia, the Exhibition and Forum 2024 has cemented its status as a cornerstone event for the renewable energy industry in the Caucasus region. It has successfully set the stage for future developments and collaborations in Georgia’s energy sector.