Innovation and technological excellence in energy transition were honored with the Lorenzo Cagnoni Award at the 4th edition of the “KEY – Energy Transition Expo,” taking place from March 4 to 6 at the Rimini exhibition center in Italy.
This award was presented to seven exhibiting companies that distinguished themselves with their cutting-edge projects, as well as to seven innovative start-ups in the “Innovation Hub” category, across the seven sectors showcased at the event, namely solar, wind, hydrogen, energy efficiency, energy storage, electric mobility, and sustainable cities.
During a ceremony held as part of this key event on energy transition in Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean region, initiated by the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), trophies were awarded to the winning companies and start-ups by Maurizio Renzo Ermeti, president of IEG, Alessandra Astolfi, international exhibition director and head of the Green & Technology division at IEG, and Giorgia Caprioli, project manager of “KEY – The Energy Transition Expo.”
Meanwhile, the second day of the expo featured a series of conferences focusing on topics related to emerging technologies for future energy, international dialogue on hydrogen, electric vehicle charging networks, and the construction and maintenance of renewable energy plants and storage systems, among others.
On this occasion, the Italian Exhibition Group highlighted the main challenges facing the energy market while presenting new scenarios in a study on energy transition. This study analyzed the European electricity system, energy policies, and market developments, emphasizing technologies, infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and data centers.
Panelists deliberated on other issues, including international dialogues regarding hydrogen in Europe and its future prospects, the construction of power plants and financing projects as strategic elements for the development of renewable energies, and the growth of electric mobility that relies on establishing an efficient and extensive charging network.
The conferences were led by a host of experts and representatives from international public and private institutions across the economic, financial, political, and diplomatic spheres.
The 4th KEY Energy Transition Expo 2026 has emerged as a focal point for sustainable innovation, reinforcing its role as a growth accelerator and development platform for young Italian and international enterprises committed to the energy sector.


