Energy conference to use virtual technology
GAME-CHANGING VIRTUAL ARENA TO BE OFFERED
ALEADING wind conference is to use a “game changing” virtual platform to replicate real-life interaction when it returns to the Humber this spring. Offshore Wind Connections 2021, being held on April 21 and 22, is using technology that provides an authentic and immersive experience for delegates while showcasing exhibitors, sponsors and leading industry speakers. The specialist event, run by Team Humber Marine Alliance, is now in its eighth year and has grown in stature along with the offshore wind sector in the region, attracting hundreds of visitors from the UK and globally.
For OWC 2021, THMA has partnered with Aura, which has developed the innovative platform to create a “digital twin” of its Aura Innovation Centre, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and led by the University of Hull. Headline sponsorship of the event is from Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy.
Andrew Oliver, chair of Team Humber Marine Alliance, said that the opportunity to use the technology developed by Aura would create “new conversations” among delegates. “Although you will take part in OWC 2021 from your desk, you will feel that you are inside the AIC building and the technology offers incredible potential for networking,” he said.
After creating an avatar, delegates will enter the virtual AIC, move around the building and network with people of their choice. They can “take a seat” and watch presentations broadcast via the
Team Humber Marine Alliance news channel straight onto the screen in the lifelike, real-time AIC conference space.
“Delegates can easily check out who’s ‘in the building’, chat with them, video call them and even get together in groups – and it’s very simple to use,” added Mr Oliver. “After a year of uncertainty and social distancing, we are really pleased that Aura has partnered with us and enabled us to access this game-changing conference platform. We are immensely grateful for their input and to Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy for their headline sponsorship.” Business Live returns as a media partner for the event, while near neighbour Clay10 has again provided the tech, on the back of delivering Marketing Humber’s new Net Zero investor resource. Louise Smith, director of Aura, said: “This is a big year for the
Humber region and the UK as a whole, with attention firmly on the climate change agenda and the national race to net zero. “Offshore wind has an integral part to play in response to both of these challenges so it’s vital that we provide opportunities to connect and explore developments across the sector together.”
In addition to the headline sponsorship from Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, platinum sponsors include ABP, Ørsted, and ORE Catapult, with the silver sponsor being Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm. The conference is also being supported by RenewableUK, and the line-up of speakers will be announced over the coming weeks. The price of a conference pass, which will allow full access to the virtual exhibition, networking and presentations is £90 plus VAT with a reduction for Team Humber Marine Alliance members.