Calgary is welcoming the world’s energy industry and leaders Sept. 17-21
The City of Calgary is excited to welcome the 24th World Petroleum Congress to Calgary Sept. 17 – 21, 2023. The event will be an important bridge between the traditional energy sector and a more carbon-neutral industry over the next twenty-five years.
"Hosting the World Petroleum Congress with the theme: Pathways to Net-Zero is an incredible opportunity to welcome the world to Calgary and reaffirm our reputation as the ultimate host city,” says Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “This event is expected to generate significant economic spinoff estimated at $88 million which will be a significant benefit to all Calgarians."
The Congress is a great fit for Calgary, as a city that is being recognized as a leader in the global energy transition.
"We are excited to welcome a diverse cross section of delegates from around the world to Calgary for the 24th World Petroleum Congress," says Denis Painchaud, President & CEO, WPC Canada. "The innovation and progressive technological advancements coming out of the energy industry in Calgary makes this city the ideal host to address the theme of this year's Congress - Energy Transition: The Path to Net-Zero. We look forward to the energizing and thought-provoking conversation that will take place amongst government leaders, industry executives and experts, and investors from Sept. 17-21, as we welcome delegates to this year's Congress."
Getting around
Higher than normal traffic volumes are anticipated in the downtown and around Stampede Park during the Congress. Calgarians commuting into downtown Sept. 18-21 are encouraged to plan their route in advance, allow extra time to get to where they’re going and consider using Calgary Transit, cycling or carpool.
“The City is ready to host this high-profile gathering of the global energy industry,” says City Manager David Duckworth. “We have plans in place to keep Calgarians and visitors safely moving throughout the week and ensure City services and infrastructure are ready to welcome thousands of visitors from around the world to Calgary.”
Calgary’s actions to net-zero and a climate resilient city
Calgary’s own pathway to net-zero starts with building a foundation now to achieve net-zero by 2050.
“Calgary has long been recognized as the epicenter of energy in Canada. This year’s theme, Pathways to Net-Zero, also reflects our efforts to be a world leader in energy transformation and the pursuit of a low carbon future,” says Gondek.
We have a responsibility within the global community to do our part and decrease our city’s emissions – primarily by diversifying the economy through the energy transition, as well as building our city with low-emission buildings, low-emission mobility options and decarbonizing Calgary’s energy supply.
Safety and security
This event is expected to draw large crowds and put Calgary on the global stage. It also has the potential to draw protests and demonstrations. The Calgary Police Service recognizes the right of everyone to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. They also recognize the rights of residents, visitors and businesses to a safe environment and will police behaviour, not beliefs.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors and our mutual aid policing partners from across the region to our vibrant city for what is expected to be a world-class event,” says Calgary police Chief Constable Mark Neufeld. “Our folks have been planning for this for approximately two years and we have a measurable and flexible plan to address public safety needs.”
To learn more about the Congress and Calgary’s path to net-zero, visit calgary.ca/wpc.
For more information about demonstrating in Calgary, visit calgarypolice.ca/protesting.
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