2027 theme: Fit for 2050: Delivering Net Zero, Intelligent, and Resilient Built Environments.
- Date: 8 - 9 April 2027
- Venue: Brunel University, London
- Call for Papers: 8 May - 16 June 2026
The Symposium will showcase the latest research, practical case studies, and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of building services engineering. Particular attention will be given to the role of artificial intelligence, digitalisation, and integrated energy systems in supporting the transition to net-zero buildings and resilient infrastructure. With contributions from academia, industry, and government, the event will provide a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange across the global building services community.
At the heart of the symposium lies a central question: How can building services engineers accelerate the delivery of net zero, intelligent, and resilient built environments?
2027 Submission Topics
Paper submission for the 2027 CIBSE Technical Symposium runs 8 May to 16 June. CIBSE is accepting submissions related to the theme Fit for 2050: Delivering Net Zero, Intelligent, and Resilient Built Environments.
Engineering strategies for achieving operational net zero energy and carbon.
Applications of AI, machine learning, digital twins, and analytics in design, operation, and optimisation, including emerging autonomous or self-optimising systems.
Engineering strategies that ensure buildings remain safe, comfortable and operational under future climate conditions, including environmental and resource constraints.
Integration with electricity networks, demand response, storage, and flexible energy systems.
Advances in sensing, interoperability, control systems, and data-driven building operation, including the development and application of open data standards.
International research, policy frameworks and engineering approaches.
Engineering solutions for retrofit and large-scale building stock transformation.
Closing the performance gap through monitoring, verification, benchmarking, and data-driven optimisation.
Heat pumps, district energy networks, ambient loops and emerging low-carbon technologies.
Reducing embodied carbon in building services systems and enabling circular approaches.
Balancing decarbonisation with indoor environmental quality and occupant wellbeing.
Exploring the evolution of building services engineering roles, including ethics, professional standards, education, and the cross-disciplinary skills required to deliver a sustainable, safe and high-performing built environment.
NOT JUST FOR ACADEMICS
CIBSE encourages submissions from practicing engineers and industry professionals, including case studies supported by a short briefing document. Suitable contributors include:
- Designers
- Consultants
- Comissioning Engineers
- Contractors
- Controls Engineers
- Information Engineers
- Facilities Managers
- Building Operators
- Building Maintainers
NOT JUST FOR THE UK...
Researchers and practitioners from around the world are encouraged to submit abstracts. International contributions help broaden knowledge exchange and strengthen collaboration across the global building services community. Since AI is becoming such a defining topic, the symposium is exploring the intersection of decarbonisation, digitalisation, and resilience. These three pillars map perfectly to the theme and will also compliment to activities of ASHRAE, REHVA, and many research groups.
2026 Supporters
Silver Sponsors
DesignBuilder Software
IES
IES is a global climate tech company delivering innovative software solutions and consultancy services to decarbonise the built environment. Over the last 30 years, we have built a solid reputation as the leading global innovator in integrated performance-based building analysis through our flagship Virtual Environment (IESVE) software and expanded range of digital twin tools. Supporting energy-efficient, healthy and cost-effective built environments, IES technology provides those involved in the design, retrofit and operation of buildings with the information needed to make smarter, more sustainable decisions with confidence.
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Strebel
We offer an extensive and innovative range of air source heat pumps, utilising the latest in low GWP refrigerants, ultra low NOx and efficient boilers, thermal stores, water heaters and accessories for commercial applications. Along with our outstanding pre and post technical support and long-term care and maintenance plans.
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ASHRAE
ASHRAE is an international society of more than 50,000 heating, refrigerating and air-conditioning professionals from over 132 nations dedicated to serving humanity and promoting a sustainable world. Founded in 1894, ASHRAE is an industry leader in research, standards writing, publishing, certification and continuing education. ASHRAE members are dedicated to promoting a healthy and sustainable built environment for all, through strategic partnerships with organizations in the HVAC&R community and across related industries. The Society is showcasing integrated building solutions and sustainability in action through the opening of the ASHRAE Global Headquarters building in metro-Atlanta, Georgia. For more information, visit ashrae.org.
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IBPSA - England
IBPSA-England is an affiliate of International Building Performance Simulation Association, a non-profit international society of building performance simulation researchers, developers and practitioners, dedicated to improving the built environment. IBPSA-England is founded to advance and promote the science of building performance simulation in order to improve the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of new and existing buildings. Any individual with an interest in the field of building simulation can become an individual member of IBPSA-England.
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Institute of Refrigeration (IoR)
The Institute of Refrigeration (IOR) is an independent registered charity run for the public benefit with a membership reflecting the diversity of the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump sector (RACHP).
Our sector is essential to the safe, reliable and efficient provision essential services in food production, distribution, storage and retail, industrial cooling processes in manufacturing, climate control in spaces, such as datacentres, IT rooms, offices, shops, leisure facilities and hospitality, as well as pharmaceutical and healthcare facilities, amongst others.
Loughborough University
Loughborough University is well known for offering a life-changing experience, both academically and socially. We deliver innovative programmes that span a broad range of disciplines, and we equip our students for every aspect of their life and career, by supporting them to gain vital experience and skills. Employers are impressed by the energy, enthusiasm and competitiveness that Loughborough graduates demonstrate. Innovation is at the heart of all our activities. It enhances our student experience, creates impact from research, and drives regional prosperity through our dynamic innovation community and business base at Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park.
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BESA
BESA (Building Engineering Services Association) is a UK-based trade organisation established in 1904, dedicated to advancing the building services industry. It represents contractors involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of engineering systems in the buildings, including HVAC, plumbing, and renewable energy solutions. BESA provides technical guidance, training, and certification schemes to promote excellence, safety, and sustainability across the sector. The association actively engaged in policy development, supporting its members with compliance, industry standards, and best practices. BESA is a trusted voice in the built environment, fostering innovation and collaboration to meet the challenges of modern construction and energy efficiency.
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