One of the world's biggest gatherings of the energy industry returns to Stavanger.
Having just talked about the importance of seafood to the Norwegian economy, it's time to turn to the number one industry: oil & gas.
Later this month, little Stavanger lives up to its billing as “oil capital of Norway” as it hosts ONS 2014, one of the world's largest energy conferences from 25-28 August. Although focused on operations in and around the Norwegian continental shelf, ONS attracts exhibitors from around the world, keen to show off their products and services.
It's also a chance for the city to flex its not inconsiderable cultural muscles by hosting a series of concerts, which are open to all, not just conference delegates. Let's take a look at what's in store:
Conference
The headline name at ONS is actually not involved in oil & gas, but his work directly impacts the energy industry. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, will speak about the possibilities changes can give us, which is the theme of the conference.
“ONS celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2014, under the theme Changes. Elon Musk has shown the world that he can create changes with his technology and business sense. Since he is involved in environmental projects such as electric cars and solar energy, he is the perfect keynote speaker” – Leif Johan Sevland, President & CEO, ONS
Other speakers include Khalid A. Al-Falih (President and CEO of Saudi Aramco), Maria van der Hoeven (International Energy Agency), Helge Lund (CEO of Statoil) and Hege Kverneland (CTO at National Oilwell Varco). Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will speak at the opening ceremony.
Exhibition
60,000 people are expected at the Stavanger Forum to view the latest technology and innovations from over 1,250 companies. Many smaller events are also planned for energy students and other young people.
Festival
Once business is done at Stavanger Forum, attention turns to Stavanger's city centre. The traditional opening concert at Stavanger Concert Hall features Stavanger Symphonic Orchestra, who will “recreate some of the finest moments of music and showmanship from the history of the ONS Festival”.
On the evenings of 25-27 August, the city's harbour area is transformed into a festival site open to the public. On the final night, you can look forward to free concerts from Violet Road and Ylvis, followed by a firework display. Elsewhere, Kunsthall hosts an exhibition from ONS artist Torbjørn Rødland.
Stavanger, are you ready?
