Editor's note:

Due to the rapid transition net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the increasing availability of renewable energy sources, especially solar energy, there is a high demand for large-scale and long-term energy storage solutions. In this regard, underground energy storage, such as hydrogen, has become a vital and strategic choice to balance supply and demand on a large scale. High capacity, long-term storage and national-scale operational capacity are just a few of the many advantages that underground energy storage offers. Since these countries can act as energy hubs, it is crucial to hold a specialized scientific conference on underground energy storage and recovery in fossil fuel-based countries with renewable energy platforms.

The conference aims to create an interdisciplinary space for reviewing current developments in underground energy systems, including the storage of different energy carriers such as hydrogen and natural gas, as well as the use of geological formations for energy recovery and the management of greenhouse gas emissions. By bringing together experts from geosciences, reservoir engineering, energy systems, and policy, the event encourages open exchange of ideas and practical experience on how underground storage systems are designed, operated, monitored, and evaluated in real-world applications. At the same time, the conference will address carbon dioxide capture and utilization for enhanced recovery as an essential part of integrated underground energy systems, highlighting the close links between energy storage, efficient use of subsurface resources, and emissions reduction.

Beyond technical discussions, the conference will consider the wider energy and market context by exploring opportunities and challenges related to emerging energy economies, evolving consumer demand, and the role of government policies and incentive schemes. Attention will be given to safety, standards, and certification to ensure that underground energy storage projects are developed in line with regulatory requirements and public expectations. Overall, the conference provides an important platform for advancing underground energy storage as a safe, scalable, and sustainable foundation for future energy systems.

Scientific Editor of the Conference

Associate Prof. Masoud Nasiri