The Rimini Expo Centre is set to host KEY-The Energy Transition Expo from March 5 to 7, bringing together energy sector stakeholders from across the world. The event will feature over 1,000 exhibitors covering 90,000 square meters, with 35% of exhibitors from outside Italy and delegations from 48 countries. This marks a significant expansion compared to previous editions, reinforcing the expo’s role in global discussions on renewable energy and sustainability.
KEY has grown steadily, with the 2024 edition demonstrating an increase in international participation and heightened interest in clean energy solutions. This year, the expo continues its trajectory, attracting top buyers and industry leaders from North Africa, the Middle East, the Balkans, and Eastern Europe. The expansion is backed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), the Italian Trade Agency, and over 40 international energy associations.
IEG CEO Corrado Peraboni highlighted the event’s rising profile, noting that exhibitor numbers have increased by 20% compared to last year. He pointed to the significant presence of international delegations, positioning KEY as a strategic platform for industry dialogue and business development. The event will provide opportunities for companies and policymakers to discuss regulatory frameworks, market trends, and emerging technologies in the energy sector.
IEG Global Exhibition Manager Alessandra Astolfi emphasized the role of partnerships in strengthening the expo’s global footprint. She noted that the involvement of international trade agencies and energy associations has expanded the event’s influence, making it a key meeting point for professionals working in energy transition and efficiency.
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Focus on industry dialogue and policy development
Beyond the exhibition, KEY 2025 will feature a series of high-level discussions on energy policy, innovation, and market development. The program is curated by the Technical-Scientific Committee, chaired by Professor Gianni Silvestrini, and will cover pressing topics in the sector.
One of the key sessions will focus on green hydrogen and its potential in European energy markets. Organized by ITKAM-Italian Chamber of Commerce for Germany and Deutsche Messe AG, this discussion will explore hydrogen’s role in reducing carbon emissions and integrating renewable energy into national grids.
Another session will examine sustainable electrification in Africa, organized by the RES4Africa Foundation. The discussion will address energy access challenges, investment opportunities, and the role of electrification in economic and social development on the continent.
A session on Italy’s decarbonization strategy, led by Ibesa, will analyze efforts to transition the country’s power sector to renewable sources. Policymakers and industry leaders will review regulatory updates, infrastructure investments, and market mechanisms driving the shift away from fossil fuels.
IEG Exhibition Manager Christian Previati emphasized the expo’s role in shaping the energy transition agenda. He noted that KEY provides a platform for industry leaders and institutions to collaborate, accelerating the shift toward sustainable energy systems.
Building on past successes
The 2024 edition of KEY set the stage for this year’s expansion. Last year, the event saw a surge in participation, with strong engagement from solar, wind, and energy storage companies. Discussions focused on policy frameworks, technological advancements, and financing mechanisms for clean energy projects. The momentum from that edition has contributed to increased interest in 2025, drawing a larger international audience.
The expo has also become a center for showcasing emerging technologies in renewable energy. Companies attending KEY have introduced innovations in photovoltaic efficiency, battery storage, and smart grid solutions, providing insights into the evolving energy landscape.
The growth of KEY reflects broader trends in the global energy market. Governments and private sector players are ramping up investments in renewable energy, electrification, and energy efficiency measures. With international regulations tightening around carbon emissions and sustainability targets, events like KEY provide a forum for navigating these changes and identifying new opportunities.
Looking ahead
As the global energy transition accelerates, KEY is positioning itself as a crucial event for industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. The expo offers a space for discussions on policy coordination, technological advancements, and financing mechanisms necessary for achieving carbon neutrality.
The expansion of KEY also reflects Italy’s growing role in the international energy transition dialogue. With support from government institutions and international trade agencies, the country is leveraging the expo as a platform for engaging with global stakeholders.
The 2025 edition is expected to set a new benchmark for international participation, further solidifying KEY’s status as a leading energy transition expo. As energy markets evolve and clean energy adoption increases, the discussions and innovations presented in Rimini will play a role in shaping the sector’s future.
