The Global Energy Show (GES) in Calgary

At the Confluence of Innovation: The Global Energy Show (GES) in Calgary

While Houston may be the heart of offshore technology, Calgary, Alberta stands as the undisputed gateway to North America’s integrated energy future. Every June, the city transforms into a global stage for the Global Energy Show (GES)—an event that has evolved from its mid-century roots as a petroleum exhibition into a comprehensive, all-inclusive summit for the entire energy spectrum.

A Legacy Reimagined

For over 50 years, this gathering was known as the Global Petroleum Show. However, in 2020, the event underwent a strategic rebranding to reflect a changing world. Today, the GES at the BMO Centre is where the "traditional" and "transitional" meet. It is unique because it treats no energy source in isolation; instead, it brings together oil sands, hydrogen, wind, solar, and nuclear power under one roof.

Why Calgary?

Often called the "Energy Capital of Canada," Calgary is the perfect backdrop for such a diverse dialogue. Alberta possesses one of the world's largest oil reserves, but it is also a burgeoning hub for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) and hydrogen production. The city's corporate density—housing the headquarters of nearly every major Canadian energy firm—creates a high-stakes environment where policy, technology, and capital intersect.

The Three Pillars of GES

The show is structured to provide value across different professional layers:

1. The Exhibition: Spanning over 460,000 square feet, the floor features more than 500 exhibitors showcasing everything from heavy-duty field equipment to AI-driven emission monitoring software.

2. Strategic & Technical Conferences: These sessions feature hundreds of expert speakers. While the Strategic Conference focuses on high-level policy and global energy security, the Technical Conference dives deep into the "how-to" of decarbonization and operational efficiency.

3. The Awards Gala: A prestigious evening that honors leadership in sustainability, emerging technology, and Indigenous partnerships—a key component of the Canadian energy landscape.

Bridging the Transition

The GES is widely regarded as a pragmatic forum. It acknowledges the ongoing global demand for oil and gas while aggressively promoting the innovations required to reach net-zero targets.

"In Calgary, the conversation isn't about choosing one energy source over another; it’s about how to innovate across the entire mix to power a demanding world responsibly."

Looking Ahead: GES 2026

As we look toward the 2026 event (scheduled for June 9–11), the focus is expected to sharpen on digital transformation and Indigenous-led energy projects. With over 30,000 attendees from 100+ countries expected to converge on the BMO Centre, the show remains the most important dates on the calendar for anyone looking to do business in the North American energy corridor.