Uche Cecil Izuora
Global energy policy makers and analysts have tipped Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) development and energy infrastructure as top priority as the world races towards achieving energy efficiency and security.
These and many more were key takeaways from the Global Energy Show Canada 2026 (GES) past week which brought together more than 38,000 attendees, 500 exhibitors and delegates from over 100 countries to discuss energy security, investment and the future of global energy development.
This represents a 5 per cent to 6 per cent gain in attendance from the figure registered during the 2025 edition of GES.
Event organizer dmg events attributed the higher attendance and increased international participation to “the event’s influence as a global forum for energy, investment and infrastructure discussions.”
The conference discussions focused heavily on LNG development, energy infrastructure, artificial intelligence, data centers, critical minerals and global energy trade. Industry leaders also emphasized the importance of market access and international partnerships in supporting future energy growth.
International participation included delegations and representatives from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and North America, reflecting growing interest in Canada’s role within global energy markets.
The event also served as a venue for new business partnerships, strategic agreements and discussions on investment opportunities across the energy value chain. Executives and policymakers repeatedly pointed to rising global energy demand and the need for continued investment in infrastructure and supply development.
Brian Boulanger, CEO of ARC Financial Corp., told attendees that global demand for Canadian energy remains strong, while other speakers highlighted opportunities for expanded cooperation in LNG, carbon management and energy technology.
Organizers said the event generated an estimated C$70.6 million in economic impact for the Calgary region. Global Energy Show Canada will return to Calgary June 8-10, 2027.
Canada’s oil and gas sector experienced stunted growth. While current Prime Minister Mark Carney has not exactly been perfect, he has loosened up energy policy enough to give oil and gas professionals a renewed sense of optimism.
Held at Calgary’s BMO Centre during June 9-11, GES featured government officials, energy executives, investors and technology leaders examining the geopolitical, commercial and technological forces shaping the energy sector.
A recurring theme throughout the conference was Canada’s role as a reliable energy supplier amid growing global demand and increasing concerns over energy security.
“Canada is back as a serious energy country.
Canada is back as a place to invest capital,” Canadian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson said during the event’s opening session.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith highlighted the province’s resource base, regulatory framework and ongoing efforts to attract investment and support project development.