By Ganymede
Powering Net Zero: Workforce Strategies Event
Wednesday 18th March 2026 | Derby Conference Centre
Ganymede Solutions is proud to host Powering Net Zero: Workforce Strategies Event, a major Net Zero skills event at the Derby Conference Centre on Wednesday 18th March 2026.
This sustainability conference will bring together leading experts from the UK energy and utilities sector to explore one of the most urgent challenges of our time: how to achieve ambitious Net Zero targets while tackling a growing skills shortage.
Delegates will hear about proven solutions for managing operational teams, how behavioural science and innovation can improve workforce performance, and practical steps to build the skilled, sustainable energy workforce our future demands.
The Derby Conference Centre, home to Ganymede’s headquarters and a venue with recognised environmental accreditation, provides the perfect location for this important conversation.
Keynote Speakers at the Net Zero Skills Event
Jules Reed - Behavioural Scientist at Ganymede Solutions
This talk will explore how organisations have successfully applied behavioural science to better understand human factors, support their operational workforce and enhance the customer experience. We will also discuss how behavioural science can shed light on the impact of change and growth on organisational culture, sharing proven methods to help leaders effectively understand and manage culture.
Stephen Barrett - Director of Membership & Strategic Engagement at EU Skills
In this session, Stephen will explore the critical energy and utilities skills required to achieve ambitious Net Zero targets and how the sector can build capacity at pace. He will outline practical workforce strategies to help organisations respond efficiently to growing demand, signposting key resources and industry frameworks that support long-term capability.
Vardaan Shekhawat - Policy and Public Affairs Manager at ECITB
Vardaan takes on one of the industry’s biggest challenges: the need for around 400,000 additional workers by 2030 to hit Net Zero targets. In this session, he’ll share powerful strategies for planning and implementation, from sourcing and developing talent to retaining the critical skills needed to grow and future-proof operational workforces.
Eddie Woods - Trustee at Silent Voices Charity
Eddie will shine a spotlight on mental health in the industry and the urgent need to reduce suicide across the UK, sharing practical ways the industry can support people on site and in the community. He will highlight how counselling, peer support and outreach can break the silence, and challenge leaders to make wellbeing a core part of workforce safety and performance.
Event Details
📍 Venue: The Derby Conference Centre, London Road, Derby
📅 Date: Wednesday 18th March 2026
⏰ Time: 9:20 - 2:30, including complimentary refreshments and lunch
Who Should Attend This Net Zero and Sustainability Event?
This event is designed for:
Business leaders in energy and utilities
HR professionals and workforce planners
Operational managers and business improvement specialists
Engineers, Operatives, and Apprentices
Anyone passionate about Net Zero, sustainability, and the future of the UK energy industry
Why Attend the Powering Net Zero Event?
This unique Net Zero conference in Derby offers the chance to hear directly from industry leaders, share experiences, and gain practical strategies to take back to your organisation. Alongside expert talks, there will be valuable opportunities for networking and discussion with peers across the energy and utilities sector.