Queensland Manufacturing Institute (QMI) has announced it will host a free online webinar aimed at manufacturers seeking to understand emerging opportunities in the energy sector, according to a statement released by the organisation.
The webinar, titled Navigating the Energy Sector: Pathways for Manufacturers, will be held on 3 February 2026 at 1:00pm and is being delivered in partnership with Western Downs Regional Council.
QMI said the session is designed to provide manufacturers with information on how changes in the energy landscape may affect regional manufacturing businesses.
According to QMI, the webinar will focus on developments in hydrogen and battery technologies and their potential implications for manufacturers across the Western Downs and surrounding regions.
The institute said expert speakers from CQ University and Griffith University will outline recent advancements in these areas and discuss how manufacturers may engage with evolving energy supply chains.
QMI stated that the session will include contributions from Paul Hodgson, Director of the Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy at CQ University, who will draw on his experience in energy and innovation to discuss hydrogen and renewable energy supply chain opportunities relevant to regional manufacturers.
The institute also confirmed that Dr Nagesh Shukla, Associate Professor in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Griffith Business School, will present an overview of Australia’s battery supply chain, including current manufacturing capabilities and areas where new opportunities may emerge.
In addition to technology-focused discussions, QMI said the webinar will cover practical considerations for manufacturers seeking to position themselves for future projects.
This includes guidance on tailoring company profiles through Gateway by ICN, a platform used to connect businesses with project opportunities. Abhiney Arora, Executive Director of ICN Queensland, is listed as a speaker for this segment.
The overview provided with the event information notes that manufacturers in regions with established wind and solar projects are increasingly exploring ways to diversify into new energy-related markets.
The webinar is expected to outline both current and potential future opportunities across hydrogen, battery technologies and broader energy supply chains, without promoting specific projects or outcomes.
QMI described the session as an opportunity for manufacturers to gain insight into how energy sector developments may support business planning and regional economic activity.
The institute said registration is open to manufacturers and interested stakeholders, with additional speakers to be confirmed closer to the event date.
