The pivotal energy transition event, KEY 2025, has commenced at the Rimini Expo Centre, affirming its role as a leading platform for innovation and sustainable growth. Italy’s Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, underscored the event’s significance, highlighting its focus on “the vivacity, the desire to innovate, and the gamble on transition as a growth driver.” The event, running from March 5th to 7th, is attracting global attention, solidifying its status as a critical nexus for energy discussions in Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean region.
Unprecedented Growth and International Reach
This year’s KEY 2025 has achieved record-breaking scale, featuring over 1,000 exhibitors, a 20% increase from 2024. Significantly, over 30% of these exhibitors are from international markets, demonstrating the event’s expanding global influence. Supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and the Italian Trade Agency, the event has drawn approximately 350 hosted buyers and delegations from over 50 countries. Notably, North Africa, the Middle East, the Balkans, and Eastern Europe are strongly represented, cementing KEY’s position as an international hub for energy transition dialogue.
Prestigious Opening Ceremony and Key Stakeholder Insights
The opening ceremony, held under the Lorenzo Cagnoni Dome, featured prominent figures, including Maurizio Ermeti, President of Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), and Minister Pichetto Fratin. Ermeti emphasized the accelerating shift towards renewable energy, citing projections that by 2030, over half of the world’s electricity will be generated from renewable sources. Italy is already demonstrating progress, with renewables accounting for 41.2% of national demand in 2024, aligning with the 2030 Integrated National Plan for Energy and Climate (PNIEC) target of 60%. Ermeti positioned KEY as a “virtuous trade show” driving economic growth and international competitiveness.
Minister Pichetto Fratin reinforced Italy’s commitment to a renewable-focused energy strategy, highlighting the nation’s strategic role in the Mediterranean for decarbonization. He emphasized the need for institutional support to accompany the production sector in this global challenge, stating, “Once again, KEY showcases the energy and ambition to innovate and harness transition as an engine for growth.”
Regional Leadership and Local Commitment
Michele De Pascale, President of the Emilia-Romagna Region, emphasized the region’s dedication to sustainability, highlighting its goal to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050. He stressed the importance of a medium-to-long-term strategy focused on energy security and cost competitiveness, with Emilia-Romagna leading in renewable energy and energy efficiency. Anna Montini, Rimini’s City Councillor for Ecological Transition, highlighted the role of local institutions in driving sustainability, emphasizing Rimini’s efforts in developing Renewable Energy Communities.
GSE’s Role in Driving Sustainable Energy Adoption
Paolo Arrigoni, President of GSE, underscored GSE’s commitment to facilitating the energy transition. He outlined three key pillars: managing incentive programs to accelerate renewable energy adoption, providing technical support, and leveraging digital innovation. Initiatives such as the Interactive Map of Primary Cabins for RECs and the Single National Platform for electric mobility are pivotal in shaping Italy’s energy policies.
Showcasing Cutting-Edge Innovations
KEY 2025 features a diverse range of innovations, including aesthetically advanced colored photovoltaic panels, high-efficiency Italian-made solar panels, and solutions for sustainable homes. The National Sustainable Electric Cars Race for Students (SEL3C4RS) is a standout educational initiative, fostering a culture of sustainability and electric mobility among students.
A Vital Catalyst for Global Energy Transition
With its record attendance, groundbreaking innovations, and high-level discussions, KEY 2025 has solidified its position as a crucial event for energy transition stakeholders worldwide. As the global drive for sustainability intensifies, KEY serves as a vital platform for fostering dialogue, innovation, and actionable solutions, driving the world closer to a sustainable energy future.
