The Clean Energy Council Conference & Exhibition 2008 is set to be Australia’s premier clean energy forum – organised by the industry, for the industry.

The event, which will run from 24–26 November at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Queensland, will bring together leading players from the demand and supply side of the clean energy sector.

Delegates will have the opportunity to access the latest policy and market developments; first hand information and knowledge on clean energy projects; and in-depth briefings on recent technological advancements, energy efficiency, planning, community and new environmental initiatives.

The Council has developed an extensive program of speakers on a range of issues and subjects, including international and Australian developments, panel discussions and technical presentations.

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The event will showcase existing and emerging technologies including: wind power; solar power, including PV, hot water and thermal; water power, including hydro, tidal and ocean; bioenergy (bagasse); gas and cogeneration; geothermal; and energy efficiency. Over 700 senior managers and key decision makers are expected to attend the event from within the Australian and global sector. The event is also attracting organisations and businesses outside of the clean energy industry including banks, law firms and recruitment agencies.

International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Nobuo Tanaka will deliver the keynote address. Mr Tanaka became the IEA Executive Director in September 2007. The IEA is the world’s peak energy policy advisory body, advising the governments of its 27 member countries including Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, Italy and France.

Mr Tanaka brings a wealth of energy industry experience spanning three decades. Mr Tanaka was responsible for Japan’s involvement with the IEA and the G8 Energy Ministers’ Meeting during the second oil crisis. He developed international strategy as well as coordinating domestic environment policy and energy policy in the Kyoto COP3 negotiation. In the late 1980s he helped establish Japan’s comprehensive energy policy. Preceding his IEA appointment, he was the Director for Science, Technology and Industry at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Mr Tanaka will be joined by a number of equally high-calibre international and local speakers. Highlights of the conference program will include an address by Ausra’s David Mills on global developments, Wind Prospect’s Chris Morris with a presentation on ‘2020 – A UK Vision of the Future’ and newly appointed Clean Energy Council CEO Matthew Warren.

The program structure is industry focused, targeting key industry concerns such as the Garnaut Review, the proposed emissions trading scheme, and technological developments in solar, cogeneration, gas, water and power supply plus more. Plenary sessions will be complemented by up to nine concurrent sessions, allowing for specific industry panels, speakers and discussions.

In addition to the technical program the conference will also provide a jam packed social calendar. Opportunities to get to know fellow delegates and network with industry professionals include the welcome reception and cocktail party, formal conference dinner and awards, and a VIP event.

The exhibition of clean energy services and products will be open for the duration of the event. Exhibitors include the Queensland Government, Suzlon Energy, Vestas, Repower Australia, BP Solar, Hydro Tasmania plus many more.

The Clean Energy Council Convention & Exhibition 2008 will be a memorable and exciting event for all, promoting the achievements and ensuring the growth of Australia’s clean energy industry.