We are delighted to announce that Engage Consulting is returning as the exclusive sponsor of Energy UK’s Lightning Bolt Talks for 2026, marking our fourth consecutive year supporting this flagship series of data and innovation events for the GB energy sector. Building on a hugely successful 2025 programme, which saw professionals from across the industry come together to present insights on data-driven solutions, we are proud to continue championing a platform that stimulates collaboration, fresh thinking, and valuable progress.
The 2026 Lightning Bolt Talks Programme
The 2026 Lightning Bolt Talks series will feature four events throughout the year, continuing the tried-and-tested format of short, impactful talks from experts across the energy, policy, data, and technology sectors. Each evening brings together professionals from across the industry to explore innovative approaches to using data to deliver value supporting consumers, industry and the energy transition.
The confirmed 2026 schedule is as follows:
Event 1: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
Event 2: May 2026 (date to be confirmed)
Event 3: July 2026 (date to be confirmed)
Event 4: September 2026 (date to be confirmed)
Further details for the May, July, and September events will be announced in due course. We encourage industry professionals to keep an eye on our news page and the Energy UK events page for updates.
A Commitment to Innovation and Collaboration
Matthew Johnson, CEO of Engage Consulting, said: “We are incredibly proud to be entering our fourth year as the sponsor of Energy UK’s Lightning Bolt Talks. Over the past three years, these events have established themselves as a cornerstone of innovation-led discussion within the GB energy sector, bringing together some of the sharpest minds to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. At Engage Consulting, we firmly believe that data-driven collaboration is fundamental to delivering a smarter, more sustainable energy future, and the Lightning Bolt Talks embody that principle. We look forward to another outstanding year of insights, connections, and progress.”
Juliette Sanders, Chief Communications Officer of Energy UK, said: “Lightning Bolt Talks are always fast-paced, insightful and full of interesting people to meet, and we are grateful to Engage Consulting for sponsoring the series since its inception, building on a strong working relationship over many years. Data is driving innovation right across the sector, improving people’s lives and businesses’ bottom lines. With a variety of short, sharp talks at each event – no matter which part of energy people work in, everyone always learns something new. We’re excited to continue the series into 2026 with our valued partner Engage Consulting, and are looking forward to sharing more innovative stories of transformation in energy.”
Why Attend the Lightning Bolt Talks?
The GB energy sector continues to undergo considerable transformation, from the ongoing transition to Market-wide Half Hourly Settlement to the acceleration of Net Zero targets and the growth of flexibility markets. Events like the Lightning Bolt Talks play a vital role in making sure that industry professionals remain at the forefront of data-driven innovation, equipped with the information needed to navigate complex regulatory changes and unlock measurable benefits for clients and consumers alike.
The dynamic format, featuring short, focused talks from experts across different policy and technology areas, delivers a breadth of viewpoints and practical takeaways in a single engaging evening. Whether you are a supplier, network operator, regulator, technology provider, academic or advisory professional, the Lightning Bolt Talks offer a great opportunity to keep ahead of the curve.
First Event: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
The 2026 series kicks off on Wednesday, 4 March, with an evening of time-limited talks from expert speakers spanning the energy, legal, technology, and innovation sectors.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
Time: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Venue: The Tokenhouse, Moorgate, 4 Moorgate, London EC2R 6DA)
Confirmed Speakers
We are pleased to confirm three of our four speakers for the opening event of the 2026 series, with a diverse line-up spanning legal expertise, electric vehicle infrastructure, and energy technology:
Emma Whitfield, Freeths
Jade Edwards, Zapmap
Tom Woolley, SMS Energy
Alan Rodgers, Energised Futures Powered by Centrica.
As with previous Lightning Bolt Talks, the format will feature time-limited presentations followed by an opportunity to network with fellow industry professionals over refreshments.
Register Now
Given the popularity of previous events and limited availability, we encourage industry professionals to register early to secure their place at the opening event on 4 March 2026.
We look forward to welcoming you to a further year of informative discussions and meaningful networking as we collectively work towards a more innovative and sustainable energy future.
