Fuelling Innovation in Western Canada Through Two World-Renowned Gas Conferences

As President and CEO of the Canadian Gas Association, Timothy Egan has worked to bring prestigious natural gas conferences to Canada. His ultimate goal? To showcase Canada's innovative natural gas industry and its pivotal role in delivering affordable, reliable and low emission energy to Canadians and the world. 

Partnering with Destination Vancouver and its Meeting and Innovation Network of Distinction (MIND Partnership)—a group of thought leaders who share knowledge and tell compelling stories for meetings in Vancouver—Timothy and his team put forward a bid for the LNG2023 conference. Once again, their efforts paid off as Canada was selected as the host nation.

Reflecting on the circumstances, Timothy said: "Securing the rights to host two globally renowned events consecutively is a tribute to our sector.  To the best of my knowledge, it has never happened before. It really underscores the creative and innovative spirit of Canada's gas industry and the potential it holds for both the country and the world.”

Powerful opportunities

The LNG2023 conference took place from July 10 to 14, 2023 at the Vancouver Convention Centre in British Columbia, attracting more than 15,000 delegates from more than 85 countries—including ministers of energy, senior public officials and CEOs from the top players in the industry. The IGRC2024 conference is scheduled for May 13-16, 2024, at the Fairmont Banff Springs in Alberta. Both conferences address a vast range of pertinent topics, from energy security and affordability to the role of technological innovation in achieving improved environmental performance, and its positive impact on both the sector and societies.

As Timothy explains, these conferences hold immense significance for Canada. “It’s an opportunity for our country to engage with global industry leaders—and for the world to get a front-row seat to the progress that’s happening here,” he said. “Canada has an incredible energy system – including an incredible natural gas production, transportation and delivery system network – that guarantees affordable, reliable energy services for Canadians. Our environmental standards are amongst the highest in the world and improving all the time. And we’re harnessing innovative technology in novel ways to make things better. An international conference gives the world the chance to see all of this and consider what we can contribute.”

Purposeful meetings

Hosting the events in Western Canada— a region abundant with many energy options —offers a myriad of benefits to organizers. They can leverage the knowledge of local leaders as keynote speakers and offer attendees exclusive site tours of cutting-edge facilities, providing a first-hand glimpse of the innovations that are shaping the future. 

For instance, LNG2023 delegates had the unique opportunity to visit Kitimat, BC, gaining insights into the monumental LNG Canada Project—one of the nation's largest energy investments. Meanwhile, IGRC2024 in Banff will put the spotlight on cutting-edge technological advancements in Alberta, including the integration of hydrogen into gas delivery systems.

Beyond knowledge capital, Banff and Vancouver serve as natural draws for conferences for their breathtaking natural landscapes and enriching experiences. Between sessions, attendees have endless options for enjoying outdoor adventures, immersing themselves in local Indigenous cultures and savouring each region’s vibrant culinary scene. 

“The natural appeal of both destinations, coupled with Canada’s unique personality—our friendliness, openness and ‘get it done’ approach—are all things that enhance conferences and deliver a memorable delegate experience,” Timothy added.

An indelible mark

Looking beyond immediate economic gains, Timothy envisions a lasting legacy in Western Canada through the conferences. LNG2023 is poised to solidify Vancouver’s reputation as a global hub for LNG—not only as a port that exports it, but also as a centre for research and innovation. For Banff, the ultimate vision is to establish Alberta as a destination that continuously fosters creative thinking around innovation in the use of gas. By showcasing these possibilities, Timothy has no doubt it will open doors for local companies and build robust opportunities for the industry in Canada as a whole.

“We’re thrilled to profile Canada and bring the world to our destinations,” he says. “We want people to take away a sense of the incredible dynamism of the energy industry here and return home with a clear understanding of the value in doing business with us on energy, using our resources and drawing on our expertise. That’s an important story to share with the world.”