IDEA Conferences

IDEA conferences are designed to highlight best practice methods while fostering open dialogue about the challenges and opportunities facing district energy systems and those working in them.
 
At IDEA conferences, participants gain insight from peers who are planning, building, and operating advanced district energy systems every day. Technical presentations, case studies, and panel discussions explore emerging technologies, policy developments, financing models, and operational strategies that are shaping the next generation of sustainable energy infrastructure. Just as important, IDEA meetings create an environment where professionals can connect, ask questions, and share lessons learned in a collaborative and supportive setting.
 
We bring the district energy community together to shape the future of our industry, highlighting practical solutions and real-world experiences from across North America and around the globe. Whether you are new to district energy or a seasoned industry veteran, IDEA meetings offer a valuable opportunity to engage with the people and ideas driving the industry forward. We hope to see you at our next conference.

We are excited to bring the IDEA2026 Annual Conference & Trade Show to Ottawa, Canada, June 23-26 for three days of education, innovation and opportunities to connect.

The theme for IDEA2026—Connecting Networks—is especially fitting for the times. It reflects not only the very essence of district energy—interconnected systems delivering value to the communities they serve—but also the power of the people behind the scenes, building relationships to create a more sustainable future.

We're convening an international audience in Canada’s federal capital—not only to celebrate the remarkable progress driving district energy at home, but also to bring in global perspectives as we gather leaders from around the world to shape the industry’s future.

IDEA2026 will take place at Rogers Centre Ottawa Convention Center in downtown Ottawa, Ontario, connected to the broader district energy infrastructure that serves nearby landmarks such as the National Arts Centre and many federal buildings in the Parliamentary district.


Save the Date for Upcoming Live Events

IDEA2026
Rogers Centre and The Westin Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
June 23-26, 2026

CampusEnergy2027
Town & Country Resort, San Diego, California
Feb. 16-19, 2027

 

CampusEnergy2028
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Aurora, Colorado
Feb. 21-24, 2028

Hosting Conferences Since 1909

Founded in 1909 as the National District Heating Association, IDEA continues to inform, connect, and advance the district energy industry around the globe. Starting in 1909, IDEA hosts an Annual Conference and Trade Show each year and added its Campus Energy Conference in 1988 and an International District Cooling Conference in 2007. 

View Historic List of IDEA Annual Conferences and Chairs

View Historic List of IDEA Campus Energy Conferences

View Historic List of IDEA International District Cooling Conferences

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Upcoming and Recent Webinars

Thousands of district energy professionals have recently enjoyed the dozens of online educational opportunities we offer, including our latest Insights & Innovations webinar series.


View Webinars

Speaker Resources

Media Pass

Please direct all media inquiries to idea@districtenergy.org or call 508-366-9339.

IDEA Requirements for Journalist Media Pass