The 2026 events accelerating the path to climate neutrality
These events, organised by Energy Cities or partners, have been selected for their relevance to municipalities.
Local governance
Fossil-free cities
Community energy
Food systems
Fair economiesAbout
2026 sits between two major political moments: the changes linked to the current EU mandate in 2025 and upcoming elections in several Member States in 2027. But this year is key, with many decisions on important EU files expected (read our article on the EU’s expected decisions in 2026).
To help you navigate this year and pursue your climate neutrality journey, below are key events not to miss. Also, make sure to register to the Energy Cities’ Hubs to be informed about updates and detailed programmes.
In-person trainings to develop skills, exchange good practices and learnings
In the framework of SPARKLE, we are organising 5 in-person Schools on different key topics for municipalities to advance their transition:
- “From Renewables to Resilience: Building Stronger Communities and Cities – Thriving together” – 18-19 March in Poreč (Croatia)
- “A green transition for all: how to empower participatory governance for future-proof cities” – 28-29 April in Guimaraes (Portugal)
- “When circular economy meets local climate strategies” – 5-6 May in Calenzano (Italy)
- “Decarbonising buildings and energy districts for the benefit of all: how cities can drive the change” – 27-28 May in Vilnius (Lithuania)
- “Eat better, waste less, produce locally: developing sustainable food systems for resilient cities” – 11–12 June in Albertville (France).
Travel costs are covered up to €1400 for European local/regional authorities meeting the selection criteria.
Opening of capacity building programmes
- January: Opening of the new multilingual course Turn Behavioural Insights into Energy Savings, designed by the Energy Behaviour Forum to help public authorities apply behavioural science to real energy-efficiency challenges.
- February: Opening of the ENERCOM Facility e-learning course, designed to support European energy communities in developing and implementing strong, impactful business plans.
- 29 April: Opening of the Espresso Community Energy training on “Inclusive and equitable energy communities”, designed to support city representatives in reaching out to diverse stakeholders and fostering inclusive participation within energy communities.
Energy Cities annual forum – 28-30 April – Guimarães (Portugal)
This year’s edition focuses on “nurturing the roots,” placing local democracy at the centre of the forum.
The 2026 Green Capital Guimarães is hosting this year’s edition and will showcase its concrete achievements to all the participants. Over three days, participants will dive deep into one of six topics, which will be explored through site visits and workshops. Networking sessions, matchmaking, an inspiration fair will also be prominently featured.
A dedicated session for elected representatives will take place. The “Mayors’ Club” offers an opportunity to discuss with peers, learn from other cities, and share local challenges.
Registration opens in February
European Sustainability Week (EUSEW) – 9-11 June in Brussels and online
The 20th edition of the largest annual event organised by the European Commission—dedicated to clean energy and renewables—will focus on the theme “A clean, secure, and competitive Energy Union.” The agenda is still developing and during the week we hope to hold a session on financing heating and cooling strategies and leveraging EU funding opportunities, and another session on boosting security and resilience through energy communities.
Assises Européennes de la Transition Énergétique – 23-25 June, Dijon (France)
The most important event on the energy transition for French municipalities will be an occasion to showcase your actions, share projects and debate your ideas during one of the many workshops and panels organised in Dijon.
EU Covenant of Mayors Ceremony – October, Brussels (Belgium)
The Covenant of Mayors conference gathers local leaders and EU decision-makers in Brussels to discuss EU and local climate and energy policy.
European Week of Regions and Cities – October, Brussels (Belgium)
As every year, the EU Week of Regions and Cities will bring local government representatives from all over Europe to Brussels.
