20 Nov 2025
Rotterdam
20 Nov 2025
Rotterdam
Thursday 20 November 2025
Dee Yon Chng
Solarplaza
Paul Stassen
BIPV.world
Session 1
Net-zero buildings are no longer an aspiration—they're an expectation. But what does ‘net zero’ truly mean in practice? Achieving energy balance demands efficiency, on-site generation, storage, and smart management. This keynote will define net-zero buildings with science-backed insights while emphasizing the leadership needed to drive real adoption.
The EU’s push for climate neutrality by 2050 is rapidly reshaping building standards. With strict 2028, 2030, and 2040 net-zero mandates on the horizon, real estate owners, investors, and developers must adapt—or risk falling behind. This session breaks down key regulations, compliance strategies, and financial incentives driving the shift toward energy-positive buildings.
As demand for sustainable real estate grows, so do the financing models that make these projects viable. This panel will explore how investors, developers, and policymakers can tap into climate finance, public-private partnerships, and innovative funding structures to turn net-zero ambitions into profitable reality.
Morning Networking Break
Session 2
BIPV is more than just solar panels on buildings—it’s a game-changer for energy self-sufficiency in real estate. As grid congestion increases, BIPV is emerging as a critical tool for on-site energy production, reducing dependence on external power sources while enhancing a building’s sustainability credentials.
Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) is redefining how buildings generate energy and how they look. With rapid advancements in materials, efficiency, and aesthetics, BIPV is no longer just about sustainability—it’s about creating iconic, energy-generating architecture. This session highlights the latest breakthroughs, design strategies, and lessons learned from real-world applications.
Dr. Bruno Bueno
Fraunhofer
Pierluigi Bonomo
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland
As grid congestion becomes an increasingly pressing issue across Europe, this panel will explore how onsite renewable energy generation offers a resilient, future-proofing solution. Industry experts will discuss the critical importance of acting fast to avoid the looming grid bottlenecks and secure energy independence. But how can real estate owners turn this challenge into an opportunity?
Networking Lunch Break
Session 3
Before adding solar panels or batteries, the most efficient net-zero buildings minimize energy demand through smart architecture. This session dives into passive design strategies that reduce heating, cooling, and lighting needs—lowering both CAPEX and OPEX while improving comfort.
Net-zero buildings aren't just about producing energy—they're about managing and optimizing it intelligently. This session explores how AI, IoT, and digital tools are making buildings more energy-efficient, self-learning, and cost-effective, unlocking new ways to reduce waste, predict demand, and improve performance.
As grid congestion worsens, buildings must evolve from passive consumers to active participants in energy markets. This session explores how smart energy management, storage, and grid-interactive technologies are transforming buildings into flexible assets that optimize energy use, reduce curtailment, and even generate new revenue streams.
Afternoon Networking Break (45 minutes)
Session 4
Achieving net-zero is just the beginning—but how do you ensure your project remains resilient, financially viable, and adaptable to future shifts in policy, technology, and market demand? This closing session will tackle the practical considerations that can make or break a net-zero project in the long run.
Sander Hoek
Madaster
The transition to net-zero buildings is accelerating. Policies, incentives, and market forces are aligning—now it’s time for bold leadership to turn ambition into action. This closing keynote will tie together the day’s discussions and deliver a clear roadmap forward.
Paolo Bertoldi
European Commission
Dee Yon Chng
Solarplaza
Paul Stassen
BIPV.world
Networking Drinks
Need any help?
Send us an email; we’d be more than happy to help.
Ward Schuuring
Business Developer Team Lead
For practical questions regarding our activities:
ward@solarplaza.com
Sabine Dhevaraj
Event Procurement & Support Team Lead
For practical questions regarding our activities:
sabine@solarplaza.com
