Leading Industry Experts set agenda for future of energy at Smart Energy Workplace

Leading policy makers and industry entrepreneurs gathered at Exeter's Sandy Park for the Smart Energy Marketplace event to debate how we should generate, supply and use energy in the future.

More than 700 delegates from over 300 companies attended the event, organised by Exeter-based Regen SW to showcase the shift to a smart, decentralised energy system, how energy consumers can benefit and the huge business opportunities being created.

Now into its sixth year, delegates were able to list to a host of guest speakers, including Michael Rutter from the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Maxine Frerk from Ofgem and Phil Sheppard from National Grid.

Exhibitors included leading UK and European utilities, car companies and energy entrepreneurs including: Tesla Motors, BMW, Wales and West Utilities, Scottish and Southern Energy, Limejump, Tempus Energy, Opus Energy, Triodos Bank, Western Power Distribution, South West Water, Mole Energy, Green Hedge and many more.

Merlin Hyman, Chief Executive from Regen SW, said: “Our event had a clear message - the days of big centralised fossil fuel powered energy generation are coming to an end. Switching to smart, decentralised and renewable energy will be cleaner, cheaper and more secure.

“The shift in our energy system will create one of the biggest economic opportunities of the century. Smart Energy Marketplace provided a showcase of the opportunities and how UK entrepreneurs could lead the way, with the right support.”