SPE Offshore Europe returns to the city

Aberdeen is gearing up to host SPE Offshore Europe 2025 next week (2-5 September), Europe’s premier international energy conference looking at innovation in the industry including the energy transition, digital technology and skills development. 

First launched in Aberdeen in 1973 and staged biennially in the Granite City, the event has grown into the largest energy exhibition and conference outside North America.  

This year’s event is expected to welcome over 30,000 industry professionals and more than 500 exhibiting organisations from across the globe to P&J Live. In addition to the large-scale exhibition, attendees will participate in panel discussions, technical workshops, and networking sessions.  

Councillor Christian Allard, Co-Leader of Aberdeen City Council, said: “SPE Offshore Europe reaffirms Aberdeen’s position as a world leader in the field of oil and gas – and, now in all forms of energy. 

“As a city we’re proud to be leading the transition to Net Zero through wind power, solar, and the production of green hydrogen as part of our Joint Venture with bp.” 

Invest Aberdeen, a shared Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire Council service will host a pavilion with regional partners highlighting growth and investment in our region. 

P&J Live Managing Director, Rob Wicks said: “Our venue provides the perfect stage for SPE Offshore Europe, with its scale, flexible spaces, award-winning culinary offering and proximity to the airport. The event takes over the entire venue, making it one of our flagship shows and one that we are tremendously proud of hosting.  

“We look forward to opening our doors and enabling the conversations that will help to accelerate the transition to a better energy future.”

Opened in September 2019, P&J Live features 48,000 square metres of multi-purpose event space, and boasts world-class conference and exhibition halls, a world class arena, spacious hospitality boxes and a high-end restaurant.

Over the past few years, the venue has secured some major international events and high-profile shows as part of a strategy to broaden the content mix. Successes include the Rogue Invitational CrossFit competition, Beyond Van Gogh immersive experience, multiple sold-out performances of Les Misérables Arena Spectacular and the world premiere of the anticipated Hot Wheels Stunt Show.  

Next June the venue plays host to the 87th EAGE Conference and Exhibition for the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers. 

SPE Offshore Europe is a key forum for leaders, engineers and innovators shaping the sector’s future. It showcases regional expertise – from engineering contractors to technology startups – alongside global players. 

A programme aimed at encouraging people to join the energy industry will debut at the event, and is expected to draw around 300 school pupils, alongside students and individuals seeking to upskill, change careers or return to the workplace. 

The skills and education programme is supported by bp, OPITO and bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited – the joint venture between bp and Aberdeen City Council developing the Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub. 

Dr Oliver Taylor, chief executive for bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, said: “Captivating young minds is fundamental to building a vibrant future workforce. We’re proud to sponsor SPE Offshore Europe’s education programme and get involved in the brilliant programme of events that I’m sure will help light the path for exciting careers across the energy industry.” 

Hosting SPE Offshore Europe delivers a boost to local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to transport services. Studies have estimated that an ‘Offshore Europe week’ can inject upwards of £50 million into the regional economy over the four days. 

David Ince, Exhibition Director, Reed Exhibitions said: “We’re proud to return to Aberdeen for the 52^nd year of SPE Offshore Europe working alongside a range of City and Regional partners and stakeholders.

“This year’s event brings together world-class speakers from government and industry, alongside an exceptional range of exhibitors and cutting-edge content. It’s the most powerful showcase of the innovation, expertise and collaboration driving the future of offshore energy.”

Shuttle buses, park and ride and traffic measures will be used to smoothly move delegates between P&J Live, the airport, and the city centre. The shuttle bus timetables can be viewed here: OE25BusTimetables.pdf.coredownload.562158336.pdf