ONS 2026 Theme
Courage
Today’s energy landscape calls for bold choices and decisive action. The challenges we face; consequences of climate change, energy insecurity, geopolitical tension, unjust access to energy and a constantly shifting business sphere, are unprecedented in scale and complexity.
ONS 2026 aims to embrace this pivotal moment with the theme Courage, calling on executives, thought leaders, innovators, businesses and politicians across the globe to step up and act fearlessly to shape a more sustainable energy future.

Courage is a catalyst for transformation and innovation. It represents the ability to challenge the status quo, the confidence to navigate uncertainty, and the determination to push boundaries.
History has demonstrated that the world can be changed for the better through courageous actions. At ONS 2026, we will unleash the courage required to confront difficult truths, embrace innovative technology, and craft solid decisions that will help define the next era in energy.
Pillars of Courage
for Transition
We must accelerate the pace towards a more sustainable energy system. The energy mix remains unbalanced with 80% fossil and 20% non-fossil energy production. It takes courage to keep exploring the path of energy transition and invest in renewables and commit to ambitious net-zero targets.
How can industry leaders and policymakers drive change without compromising energy security and still foster prosperity and growth?
to Innovate
Breakthrough technologies are crucial for the energy transition, but innovation comes with risks and uncertainties. How do we foster the courage to develop solutions that will reshape the energy landscape? How will AI affect power demand, shape the energy-intensive infrastructure and influence competitiveness?
This technology leap will change the world as we know it. We will explore new energy carriers and solutions, while also addressing the viability and sustainability of new value chains. It is time to pave the way for a more resilient society.
for Openness
In a fragmented world, nations and corporations can bring hope by building alliances to address shared challenges. At ONS, we believe the power of collective action and honest dialogue can lead to positive change.
From climate activists to industry executives and those who lead nations around the world, it takes courage and firm resolve to challenge established truths. In a world where energy challenges transcend borders, industries, faith and ideologies, openness is not just a value – it is a necessity.
to Lead
The global energy system must balance between environmental imperatives, economic growth, and societal needs. This requires strong leadership, vision and the ability to act.
Courage is showing true leadership, whether we are guiding organizations through transition, advocating for just policies or laying the foundation for inspiring initiatives and action. Tomorrow’s leaders will be remembered for what they did – and did not – do.
Courage at ONS 2026
At ONS 2026, the world’s most influential voices and companies will convene to share stories of courage and determination; examples of groundbreaking initiatives and solutions, transformative policies and leadership to move towards a more resilient society.
Through inspiring keynote speeches, thought-provoking panel discussions, actionable roundtables and leadership circles, ONS 2026 aims to ignite the courage needed to tackle the world’s most pressing energy challenges.
The broad relevance of ONS is apparent in our many different conference arenas, and the grand exhibition will gather more than a thousand companies eager to showcase their latest innovations – demonstrating that courage remains the driving force of the industry.
Join us as we celebrate the courage to confront challenges, embrace business opportunities, and implement change to create a better future.
2024: Imagine
2022: Trust
2020: Together
2018: Innovate
2016: Transition
2014: Changes
2012: Confronting Energy Paradoxes
2010: Energy for more people
2008: Energy for one world
2006: Bridging the energy gap
2004: Shaping our energy future
2002: Energizing a new generation
2000: Shaping the future of the energy industry
1998: Energy needs and environmental demands
1996: Oil and gas beyond 2000 – new frontiers
1994: A changing world – a changing industry
1992: Future energy markets – political and technological perspectives
1990: The petroleum industry adjusting to new realities
1988: Oil and gas in the 1990’s – perspectives, challenges and opportunities
1986: Northern waters: new political, economic and technical opportunities and concerns
1984: Uncertainties and innovation – management of northern offshore resources
1982: Production of oil and gas from deep hostile waters
1980: Uncertainties in the management of the offshore petroleum resources
