Hosted by the World Energy Council and Saudi Arabia Ministry of Energy

SPONSOR & EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITIES

The next productivity revolution

Supply chains, critical minerals, circularity, and skills for sustainable energy transitions

The shift toward more and better energy is not just a technological revolution, it is fundamentally a productivity revolution with deep implications for the way we live and work. There will be a reshaping of how we source, use, and deploy the materials that power our economies. Competitiveness could be enhanced in the process. As the world accelerates towards lower emissions, the spotlight is on the foundational elements that will determine the pace and resilience of energy transitions: critical minerals, robust supply chains, and the adoption of circular and shared economic models. 

Leadership dialogues at World Energy Congress 2027 in Riyadh under the Pillar of 'The next productivity revolution,' will explore how the race towards a bigger and better energy future can continues uninterrupted, without losing sight of the people at the heart of energy transitions. World Energy Congress is known for its ability to bring together the full spectrum of energy interests under one roof, convening digital and mining leaders alongside more familiar energy faces to fast-track solutions that will serve whole energy systems. 

A look at what's to come

Sessions will include:

The age of materials

Energy transitions are rapidly becoming materials transitions. From critical minerals such as lithium, copper and rare earth elements to the processing and refining systems that enable batteries, grids and hydrogen infrastructure, demand for materials is accelerating at unprecedented speed. This session examines the implications of that surge - for supply security, industrial strategy, land use and communities - and confronts a harder question: who gains, and who bears the social and environmental cost of this new age of materials?

 

The next productivity revolution: Who really benefits?

As industries accelerate decarbonisation and digitalisation, a new wave of productivity gains is emerging - but so is the risk that value concentrates in the hands of a few. This session explores how innovation, investment and inclusive policy can ensure that the efficiencies of a cleaner, more productive economy translate into shared prosperity across regions, sectors and communities.

 

Markets for tomorrow: Shaping the next wave of productivity

Are today’s market structures equipped to drive the next wave of productivity? This session explores how smarter rules, clearer incentives and stronger cooperation can help economies respond to shifting demand, new industries and changing expectations from workers and communities. Speakers consider how adaptive markets can support long-term competitiveness, innovation and more resilient pathways for development.

 

Energy beyond growth: Redefining prosperity

Future competitiveness may rely as much on regeneration as on output - but what happens when growth itself is no longer the only measure of success? This session explores how energy systems can support prosperity within planetary boundaries without assuming unlimited expansion. Speakers explore practical pathways, cultural and economic trade-offs, and how countries are testing models that respect planetary limits while enabling inclusive development. What could a nature-positive energy economy mean for policy, investment and global cooperation?

 

Energy workforces of the future

As global demographics shift, the future energy workforce is being shaped by emerging markets, rapid automation and a new generation of innovators. This session spotlights how regions - from Africa to fast-growing economies - are nurturing talent pipelines, re-skilling industries and empowering youth. Speakers explore how inclusive workforce strategies can unlock global capability, strengthen collaboration and deliver on the promise of people-powered progress.

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