DTF and Maritime Battery Forum Announce Strategic Partnership for DTF 2026
Decarbonising the Future (DTF), one of the Europe’s leading maritime sustainability conferences, has announced a strategic collaboration with the Maritime Battery Forum (MBF) ahead of DTF 2026, taking place on 13–14 October 2026 in Malta.
The partnership brings together two organisations committed to accelerating the maritime sector's transition towards cleaner, more efficient and resilient energy systems.
Held under the theme "From Shore Power to Integrated Energy Systems," DTF 2026 will gather ports, shipping companies, cruise operators, utilities, technology providers, policymakers and investors to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of maritime decarbonisation.
As part of the collaboration, the Maritime Battery Forum will play a central role in developing the conference's battery and energy storage programme. MBF will contribute industry expertise and help showcase the latest developments in maritime battery technologies and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
DTF 2026 invites industry leaders, technical experts, policymakers, utilities, port authorities, shipowners, financiers, and solution providers to submit speaking proposals aligned with this year's core focus: the evolution of shore power into fully integrated port energy systems.
A keynote address will be delivered by Syb ten Cate Hoedemaker, Managing Director of the Maritime Battery Forum, who will share perspectives on the growing role of batteries within the maritime energy transition.
The collaboration will also see the creation of dedicated conference sessions hosted by MBF, providing delegates with direct access to global expertise on battery systems, vessel electrification, energy storage, safety standards and future maritime applications.
DTF 2026 is expected to welcome more than 1000 delegates from over 30 countries alongside an international exhibition featuring leading maritime and energy technology providers.
In addition to the conference programme, delegates will have access to a series of live demonstrations showcasing real-world decarbonisation projects, including a vessel retrofit project, a national battery energy storage system installation and the commissioning of a superyacht onshore power supply connection.
Norbert Grech, DTF Team Lead, stated:
"Battery technology is rapidly becoming one of the most important pillars of maritime decarbonisation. Through this collaboration with the Maritime Battery Forum, we are bringing together the expertise, technology providers and decision-makers required to move the industry from ambition to implementation. We are delighted to welcome MBF as a strategic partner of DTF 2026."
Syb ten Cate Hoedemaker, Managing Director of the Maritime Battery Forum, added:
“The adoption of battery technology in maritime application is rapidly increasing. Battery technology has matured, and it is possible to make a business case for electrification for most ship types. One of the main challenges for electrification that remains is the availability to shore power or charging systems. This, and the increase in electrification of vessels in the Mediterranean, is why MBF is excited about this partnership with DTF.”
The partnership further strengthens DTF's position as an international platform for collaboration across ports, power and partnerships, bringing together stakeholders from across the maritime energy value chain.
Registration for DTF 2026 is now open.
About DTF
Decarbonising the Future (DTF) is an international conference and exhibition focused on maritime sustainability, port electrification, shore power, renewable energy integration, energy storage and maritime innovation. Hosted in Malta, DTF brings together global leaders working to accelerate the maritime sector's transition towards a lower-carbon future.
About the Maritime Battery Forum
The Maritime Battery Forum was founded with the aim of promoting new and efficient energy storage technologies in the maritime industry. With over 90 members across 3 continents, the MBF works to disseminate information, facilitate discussion, and accelerate the journey towards a zero-emission maritime future.
Contact :
Ayomide Miracle Salifu
Community & Communications Manager
Email: ayomidesalifu@maritimebatteryforum.com
Website: www.maritimebatteryforum.com
