Two compact, high-impact days full of innovation, networking, and international collaboration once again proved why the OFF-GRID Expo + Conference (OEC) is Europe’s leading platform for off-grid technologies and sustainable energy solutions.
Around 600 international participants from 35 countries gathered at Messe Augsburg to discuss current developments and practical solutions for a decentralized and sustainable energy future. Over 40 exhibitors from eight countries showcased technologies, products, and services – from energy generation and storage to groundbreaking applications in water, agriculture, and mobility. With deep technical expertise, a hands-on focus, and strong content, the OEC impressed participants with its top-tier speakers, high-quality presentations, and insightful discussions.
One of the standout highlights of this year’s event was Kenya’s role as the official partner country. A high-level delegation of Kenyan experts, including H. E. Stella Mokaya-Orina, OGW ‚ndc‘ K, Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Germany, and Alex Wachira, Principal Secretary for Energy, Ministry of Energy, Kenya, attended the event. “We are happy and proud to be the partner country for this off-grid energy expo”, said Ambassador Orina. “In this conference here today we are looking forward to making new partnerships, both in the multilateral space and the bilateral space, and getting into partnerships between our institutions, our State Department for Energy, our training and academic institutions and although benefiting from new skills and new energies and approaches from partners.”
With their active contributions to panels, discussions, and networking sessions,
the Kenyan delegation sent a strong message about the importance of international cooperation and knowledge exchange. As a global pioneer in renewable energy, Kenya not only demonstrated why it is leading the way in off-grid implementation but also provided key input to the global dialogue on access to clean energy.
Robert Winkler, Head of Department, Bavarian State Ministry for the Environment and Consumer Protection, delivered the keynote speech on behalf of Bavarian State Minister Thorsten Glauber, the official patron of the event. Winkler praised the high caliber of the event: “The OFF-GRID Expo + Conference in Augsburg has kicked off with great success. Of particular note was the powerful panel discussion by Kenyan experts, which highlighted Kenya’s leadership role in the East African energy sector. I am especially pleased by the strong interest from our Kenyan partners in expanding collaboration with Bavaria – this should be pursued with determination on both sides. This event shows how essential international exchange, innovative technologies, and reliable partnerships are for a sustainable energy future.”
“The exchange with Kenya was not only inspiring, but also a powerful signal of the importance of global partnerships,” added Lorenz A. Rau, CEO of Messe Augsburg. “Together with our exhibitors, partners, and conference guests, these two days have shown the immense potential of a shared vision for sustainable energy. Once again, the OEC has proven to be an indispensable platform for the off-grid sector.”
Jens Jaeger, Director of Policy & Business Development at the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE), also emphasized the significance of the event: “Building on over five years of successful partnership with Messe Augsburg for the OFF-GRID Expo + Conference, ARE was proud to participate once again as Industry Partner at this year’s key European gathering for the off-grid sector. With more than 30 ARE members present, the event underscored the importance of sustainable off-grid technology and innovation in driving electrification with renewables worldwide.”
The conference delivered a powerful program filled with forward-looking sessions, panels, and discussions. From green hydrogen and smart grids to the productive use of renewable energy, the event covered the full spectrum of technological, economic, and social topics. The interactive format – curated in close coordination with ARE and partners such as
the Afrika-Verein der Deutschen Wirtschaft, German Water Partnership, and the TUM (Technical University of Munich) SEED Center – fostered exchange on an equal footing and generated
meaningful impulses for the off-grid industry. For the first time, the product-focused workshops were integrated directly into the two-day event schedule, offering even more value to both visitors and exhibitors.
More statements about OFF-GRID Expo + Conference 2025:
Bob Hopman, Sales Manager DACH, Victron Energy B.V.:
“Victron Energy was proud to participate in this year’s OFF-GRID Expo, an important platform for showcasing the latest innovations in autonomous energy systems. The event provided valuable opportunities to connect with industry experts, partners, and customers, and to exchange knowledge on advancing reliable and sustainable power solutions. Victron Energy extends its appreciation to all who visited the booth and contributed to meaningful discussions throughout the exhibition.”
Thomas Bonicel, Access to Energy Commercial Director MEAS, Schneider Electric:
“At the OFF-GRID Expo + Conference (OEC), Europe’s leading event for off-grid and renewable energy solutions, we were able to connect with various stakeholders like EPCs, consultants and reaffirm our commitment to advancing universal energy access. Through our Climate Smart Village solution and today’s panel on productive use of renewable energy, we aim to empower communities and drive sustainable development.“
Ulf-Peter Noetzel, Senior Policy Advisor, Afrika-Verein der deutschen Wirtschaft e. V.: “My expectations were exceeded. The OFF-GRID Expo + Conference offers a fantastic setting – I was truly impressed.”
Matthias Voloder, Head of Sales, ComAp:
“This was ComAp’s first time at the OFF-GRID Expo + Conference. It was busy, I had great conversations and even made some unexpected contacts. We’re happy to come back – maybe next time with colleagues who cover the African market.”
