Special Sessions
© Linz Tourismus / Johann Steininger
Propose a special session
The IEA DHC Symposium 2027 welcomes proposals for Special Sessions that complement the regular scientific programme and provide space for focused discussion, exchange and interactive formats.
IEA DHC Annex XV projects and IEA DHC Task-Shared projects are particularly encouraged to submit proposals. Special Session proposals from other EU-funded or nationally funded research projects and innovation initiatives are also welcome. Special Sessions must have a clear relevance to district heating and cooling and must not serve as platforms for product promotion.
Format
Special Sessions are allocated a 90-minute programme slot. Possible formats include presentations, panel or round-table discussions, workshops or combinations of different formats.
Proposal submission
If you intend to prepare a Special Session, please apply until 11 January 2027 via ieadhc2027@energieinstitut-linz.at.
Please use the Special Session Proposal Template and provide:
- proposed session title;
- project or initiative on which the session is based;
- name and affiliation of the organiser(s);
- a short synopsis describing the objective, relevance and added value of the session (max. 100 words);
- proposed format and preliminary agenda;
- proposed chair or moderator;
- preliminary speakers/contributors and their affiliations.
Speakers do not need to be confirmed at the time of submission. Where available, preliminary information on potential speakers or contributors may be included in the proposal.
Registration and participation
There is no separate fee for organising an accepted Special Session. All participants attending or contributing to a Special Session must be registered participants of the IEA DHC Symposium 2027. Designated Special Session speakers are eligible for the Presenter registration fee.
Assessment and selection
Special Session proposals will be assessed based on:
- relevance to district heating and cooling and the scope of the IEA DHC Symposium 2027
- added value compared with the regular scientific programme;
- quality and suitability of the proposed concept and format;
- relevance and diversity of the proposed contributors;
- expected interest among symposium participants.
IEA DHC Annex XV projects and IEA DHC Task-Shared projects will be given priority.
The Local Organising Committee makes the final decision on the acceptance, format and scheduling of Special Sessions. Notification of acceptance is planned for February 2027.
If programme capacity remains available, later proposals may also be considered.