The Combustion Engineering Association’s Autumn Conference will explore the future of industrial steam, decarbonisation and boiler-house efficiency.
Industry experts to examine hydrogen, biomethane, industrial heat pumps, and practical opportunities to improve steam-generation efficiency and safety.
Coventry, November 2026 – The Combustion Engineering Association (CEA) will convene leading industry experts, engineers, manufacturers and energy professionals for its Autumn Conference on Wednesday 18 November 2026 at the Holiday Inn, Coventry.
Under the theme Full Steam Ahead – Tomorrow’s Technology, Today’s Efficiency, the conference will explore the technologies shaping the future of industrial steam generation and practical measures businesses can take today to improve the efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness of their existing boiler plants.
As UK industry faces mounting pressure to reduce carbon emissions while remaining competitive, the conference will offer valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of industrial heat decarbonisation, alternative fuels and emerging technologies.
Michael Kaye, General Manager of the Combustion Engineering Association, commented:
“Industrial steam users face the challenge of improving efficiency and controlling operating costs while preparing for the transition to lower-carbon technologies. Our Autumn Conference brings these priorities together, offering engineers and plant managers the opportunity to hear about emerging solutions and practical measures they can apply to existing boiler plants.”
Exploring the future of industrial steam
The morning programme brings together specialists from across the energy and engineering sectors to examine the evolving industrial energy landscape.
Dr Sarah Kimpton, Vice President and Energy Transition Director at DNV, will open the conference with an Energy Transition Outlook, examining the broader developments shaping the future of energy supply and consumption.
Sian Rowlands, Innovation & Funding Manager at Wales & West Utilities, will present a biomethane case study exploring the potential role of renewable gas in the transition to lower-carbon energy systems.
Waste-heat recovery and the electrification of industrial process heat will also be prominent.
Darren Bryant, Founder & CEO of Heatcatcher Ltd, will deliver a presentation titled Raising Steam from Waste Heat with High Temperature Heat Pumps, examining the potential to recover waste heat and use high-temperature heat-pump technology to generate steam for industrial processes.
Aramis Cook, Head of Engineering at Pure Renewables, will explore the electrification of industrial process steam and its role in a low-carbon future, considering the opportunities presented by emerging technologies.
Completing the morning programme, Dr Clare Jackson, Chief Executive of Hydrogen UK, will provide an update on the hydrogen sector, including policy developments and the evolving market.
Together, these presentations will offer delegates an opportunity to consider the technologies, investment decisions and practical challenges that could influence industrial steam generation in the years ahead.
Improving efficiency and safety today
Recognising that the transition to lower-carbon technologies must go hand in hand with the safe and efficient operation of existing plant, the afternoon programme will focus on practical engineering solutions.
Dave Tilleard of Byworth will examine steam safety and energy efficiency from a whole-system perspective, emphasising the importance of considering the entire steam installation rather than individual components in isolation.
Leigh Riddlington of M&M Training will explore practical ways to reduce energy costs in steam and hot-water boiler houses, while Pete Hutchinson of MBS will discuss changing expectations for steam boiler water treatment.
The programme concludes with Dave Chapman of IBHTEC, who will examine the fundamentals of training and the importance of developing the knowledge and competence required for safe industrial boiler operation.
These presentations will be particularly relevant to plant managers, boiler operators, maintenance engineers and energy managers seeking practical improvements in performance, reliability and operating costs.
Industry exhibition and networking opportunities
Alongside the technical programme, delegates will have the opportunity to explore an exhibition featuring products, equipment and services from industry suppliers and manufacturers. Exhibition space is already sold out, reflecting strong supplier participation in the event.
The conference will offer opportunities to meet fellow engineers, manufacturers, technology developers and industry professionals, exchange experiences and discuss the challenges facing the industrial steam sector.
A drinks reception and Gala Dinner will be held on the evening of Tuesday 17 November, providing delegates with an additional opportunity to network ahead of the conference.
Supporting industry through knowledge and education
The Combustion Engineering Association is a registered educational charity (1214506) dedicated to improving understanding and promoting best practice across the industrial combustion and steam sector.
Through its technical guidance, training, accreditation schemes and industry events, CEA supports the safe, efficient and sustainable operation of industrial combustion equipment.
The Autumn Conference reflects this commitment by bringing together expertise on both emerging decarbonisation technologies and the ongoing need to improve the performance and safety of existing steam systems.
Book your place
The CEA Autumn Conference is open to members and non-members and will appeal to anyone involved in the operation, management, design, maintenance or supply of industrial steam and combustion systems.
Event details
- Gala Dinner: Tuesday 17 November 2026
- Conference and Exhibition: Wednesday 18 November 2026
- Venue: Holiday Inn, Coventry
- Conference and Gala Dinner: £150 + VAT
- Conference only: £110 + VAT
For further information and bookings:
Website: www.cea.org.uk/events
Email: in**@*****rg.uk
Telephone: 01740 625 538
