CSSR Annual Conference 2026
Date: 22-23 September 2026
Venue: Læringsarena @ University of Bergen
CSSR's annual conference is an open forum for exchange of novel concepts and technology developments within subsurface research that can facilitate the energy transition on the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS). The conference will explore the opportunities and consequences of electrification of offshore operations. Sessions will spotlight cutting-edge research within petroleum, CCS and underground energy storage.
* Please note that this is a preliminary programme. We are currently confirming speakers and will update the programme on an ongoing basis.
Day 1: Value generation and the green transition on the NCS
Morning session: role of Research for the energy transition
How do geopolitical shifts and environmental crises impact the energy transition? What is the role of petroleum research in helping manage conflicting goals of energy security and greenhouse gas reduction?
Sofie Helene Jebsen, THEMA Consulting will present the “Energi2050 Omverdensanalyse: The energy transition in a new geopolitical reality.”
Panel discussion with industry, academic, and government representatives will reflect on their sector is evolving and how subsurface research can contribute to value generation in the energy transition.
Three national Petrocentres — LowEmission, NCS2030 and CSSR — will discuss how their research strategy is meeting emerging industry and societal needs, and how we can strengthen national research collaboration.
Lunch & poster session
Afternoon session: scientific landscape in subsurface research
What are the broad international research trends and urgent scientific challenges in subsurface research? Scientific keynotes will represent key subsurface disciplines.
Maartje Boon, Assistant Professor, University of Stuttgart
Sebastian Geiger, Professor, TU Delft
Dinner Venue: Bryggen tracteursted
Day 2: Frontiers in subsurface research
Invited talks from international research collaborators will anchor deep-dive technical sessions covering CSSR’s comprehensive research program at NORCE and University of Bergen.
Value of Data Accessibility and Sharing
How can better access to data unlock new scientific discoveries and accelerate innovation? This session brings together industry and academic leaders to discuss data sharing, open science, and the infrastructure needed to support the next generation of subsurface research.
The Role of Agents in Scientific and Industrial Research
From AI assistants to autonomous decision-making systems, intelligent agents are reshaping research and industry. This session explores emerging applications and future opportunities for agent-based technologies across the energy and subsurface sectors.
Please note that the conference is planned as in-person event, and hybrid participation is not anticipated. As spots are limited, the conference organizers may prioritize participation for CSSR affiliated members. The agenda is subject to change.
Past CSSR annual conferences
Joint National Petrocentre Energy Research Conference
