CIES 2026 – 20th Iberian and 16th Ibero-American Congress on Solar Energy
About the Congress
The Iberian Congress on Solar Energy (CIES) has a long-standing tradition as one of the most important scientific and professional events for the solar energy community in the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America. Since its inception, it has brought together researchers, academics, engineers, industry leaders, and policymakers to exchange knowledge and drive the development of solar technologies.
In 2026, the 20th Iberian Congress and 16th Ibero-American Congress on Solar Energy will take place at the University of Almería, a location with strong symbolic and scientific relevance. Just 30 kilometers away lies the Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), one of the world’s most prestigious solar research facilities, with nearly 50 years of pioneering work in concentrating solar power and solar-driven water treatment.
The event is organized by CIESOL (Center for Solar Energy Research, a joint research center of the University of Almería and CIEMAT) under the auspices of AEDES, the Spanish Solar Energy Association and national chapter of ISES (International Solar Energy Society).
The official languages of the congress are Spanish and Portuguese.
Theme of the 2026 Edition
“Solar Energy: New Uses, New Challenges”
This motto reflects the dual reality faced by the solar sector today:
- On the one hand, solar technologies have reached maturity and global recognition as essential tools for energy transition.
- On the other, new technical, social, and environmental challenges emerge that must be addressed to guarantee their sustainable development.
CIES 2026 will provide an open platform for discussing these challenges, presenting cutting-edge research, and building partnerships between academia, industry, and institutions.
Key Topics
1. Technological and Operational Advances
- Large-scale integration of solar electricity into power grids.
- Optimization of system efficiency and operational flexibility.
- Storage technologies and hybridization with other renewable sources.
2. New Applications of Solar Energy
- Solar technologies applied to water treatment and desalination.
- Solar-based solutions for agriculture and food production.
- Emerging industrial and urban applications.
3. Sustainability and Circularity
- Incorporating circular economy principles into solar projects.
- End-of-life management of solar systems and recycling.
- Environmental impact assessment and mitigation strategies.
4. Social and Economic Dimensions
- Public perception and acceptance of large solar projects.
- Socioeconomic benefits of solar adoption.
- Policy, regulation, and incentives shaping solar deployment.
Structure of the Congress
- Plenary sessions with keynote speakers presenting global advances.
- Scientific sessions for original research contributions.
- Special sessions for projects, industry associations, and companies.
- Poster sessions for young researchers and students.
- Networking events to connect academia, industry, and policymakers.
Why Almería?
Hosting CIES 2026 in Almería adds unique value:
- One of the sunniest regions of Europe, a hub for solar innovation.
- Home to the Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), a world-leading research facility.
- University of Almería: international reference in solar technologies for agriculture, water, and food security.
Who Should Attend?
- Researchers and academics in renewable energy.
- Engineers, scientists, and technology developers.
- Industry representatives and business leaders.
- Policymakers and public institutions.
- NGOs and environmental associations.
- Students and early-career professionals.
Objectives of CIES 2026
- Provide an overview of recent scientific and technological advances.
- Facilitate dialogue between academia, industry, and policymakers.
- Encourage integration of sustainability and circularity.
- Explore new applications of solar energy.
- Strengthen international cooperation in the solar community.
Practical Information
• Dates: March 23–25, 2026
• Venue: University of Almería, Spain
• Organizers: CIESOL (University of Almería & CIEMAT) and AEDES, Spanish chapter of ISES
• Language: Primarily Spanish and Portuguese, with selected contributions in English
- Special discount for the ISES members.
Join Us in Almería!
CIES 2026 offers a unique opportunity to connect with leading experts, discover innovative research, and explore the future of solar energy in a vibrant scientific and cultural environment.
For more information and registration, visit: www.cies-congreso.org or contact cies2026 [at] ual.es
