Purpose Of The Symposium

The Global ESCO Network’s second International ESCO Symposium is bringing together global experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to accelerate the transition toward a low-carbon and energy-efficient future.

Through a series of presentations, panels, and discussions, the symposium will address the latest trends, regulatory frameworks, financing strategies, and success stories in the ESCO market. It will highlight how ESCOs can serve as a key catalyst in scaling up energy efficiency projects, leveraging both public and private sector investments.

Additionally, the symposium will explore the potential of ESCO frameworks to support the achievement of global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement, while identifying opportunities for enhancing the role of ESCOs in emerging markets and developing countries. Ultimately, the symposium aims to drive forward a more integrated, resilient, and energy-efficient global economy, fostering partnerships that will unleash the full potential of ESCOs in addressing the urgent energy challenges of our time.

The Global ESCO Network’s second International ESCO Symposium is hosted by EYODER - Energy Efficiency and Management Association, in partnership with the UN Environment Programme Copenhagen Climate Center and Efficiency Valuation Organization.


Messages From The Chairs

Dear Participants,

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the Global ESCO Network’s second International ESCO Symposium, taking place on 7 and 8 May in the vibrant city of İstanbul, Türkiye. This symposium serves as a global platform for advancing energy efficiency and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon future. Together with policymakers, industry leaders, and energy experts, we aim to explore the critical role of Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) in addressing today’s pressing energy and climate challenges.

This year’s symposium focuses on the transformative potential of ESCOs in scaling energy efficiency initiatives and driving sustainable growth worldwide. Through engaging presentations, thought-provoking panels, and interactive discussions, we will explore the latest trends in the ESCO market, innovative financing mechanisms, and pathways to strengthening ESCO frameworks in both established and emerging markets. Our collective goal is to foster meaningful collaborations that amplify the impact of ESCOs in achieving global climate goals, such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement, while promoting a more integrated, resilient, and energy-efficient global economy.

We are confident that the conversations and connections forged here will shape the future of energy efficiency and sustainable development.

Welcome to İstanbul and to the Global ESCO Network’s second International ESCO Symposium — let’s work together to unlock the full potential of ESCOs!

Sincerely,
Søren Lütken, Pierre Langlois and Onur Ünlü
Chairs, Second International ESCO Symposium


Insights from Our Speakers


Topics

First Day – May 7, 2025

09:00 – 10:30

WELCOMING REMARKS BY THE GLOBAL ESCO NETWORK AND HOST INSTITUTIONS

11:15 – 12:00

THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS AND SUPRANATIONAL REGULATION

13:15 – 14:15

SPOTLIGHT ON THE ESCO FROM A DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVE

14:30 – 15:30

NATIONAL REGULATION AND FRAMEWORKS IN SUPPORT OF ESCO

16:30 – 18:00

AGGREGATION AND FINANCING THROUGH SUPERESCOS


Second Day – May 8, 2025

09:15 – 10:15

PANEL ON PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATION - ESCO IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORKS AND EPC FACILITATION FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

11:15 – 12:30

FINANCING AND STRUCTURING ESCO INVESTMENTS AT SCALE

13:45 – 14:30

CELEBRATING SUCCESS STORIES: SHOWCASE OF ESCO PROJECTS

15:00 – 18:00

B2B MEETINGS


Ticket Prices

OFFERS DATE SYMPOSIUM TICKET INSTITUTIONAL EYODER MEMBERS INDIVIDUAL EYODER MEMBERS,
ACADEMICIANS,
PUBLIC AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES
Normal Registration 18.04.2025 280 € 225 € 175 €
Late Registration 02.05.2025 350 € 275 € 225 €

Venue

The 2nd International ESCO Symposium will take place on May 7-8, 2025, at Wyndham Grand İstanbul Levent Hotel & Conference Center, Istanbul.

Venue Address:

Wyndham Grand İstanbul Levent Hotel & Conference Center

Büyükdere Cd. No:177-183, 34394 Şişli, İstanbul, Türkiye

Travel and Accommodation

Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation.

Additionally, through the registration page, they can select from hotel options, book airport-hotel transfers from Istanbul’s airports, and benefit from exclusive discounted hotel rates.

Visa Requirements

Participants must check visa requirements for entry into Türkiye and ensure they obtain all necessary travel documents in advance.

For official visa and entry details, visit the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Airports and Transport

Istanbul has two major international airports:

  • Istanbul Airport (IST) – Approx. 40 km from the venue
  • Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) – Approx. 50 km from the venue

Transportation from Airports

By Taxi

  • From Istanbul Airport (IST): Estimated travel time to the venue is 50 minutes, and the approximate taxi fare is ~50 EUR.
  • From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Estimated travel time is 1 hour, and the approximate taxi fare is ~65 EUR.
  • Symposium Registration Transfer Option: A one-way or round-trip Premium Minivan transfer is available from both airports for 60 EUR per trip. This option can be selected during the registration process.

By Public Transport

  • From Istanbul Airport (IST): Take the M11 metro line from Istanbul Airport Station towards Kağıthane Station, where you can transfer to the M7 metro line towards Mecidiyeköy. From Mecidiyeköy, take the M2 metro line in the direction of Hacıosman and get off at Levent Station, which is a 5-minute walk from the symposium venue. Total estimated travel time: ~60 minutes.
  • From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Take the IETT public bus (E-3 line) to Levent Metro Station, which is a 5-minute walk from the symposium venue. Alternatively, take the M4 metro line from Sabiha Gökçen Airport Metro Station to Ayrılık Çeşmesi Station, transfer to the Marmaray line, and then connect to the M2 metro line towards Hacıosman, getting off at Levent Station. Total estimated travel time: ~75 minutes.

Registration


Beyond Meetings: Travel & Discover

The 2nd International ESCO Symposium isn’t just about discussions, it’s also a chance to explore! Join exclusive tours designed for attendees, offering a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

From historic landmarks to coastal views and local flavors, these curated experiences will enrich your visit.

Click to expand for tour options and details!

After registering in the system, you can purchase from the Social Tours section.


Istanbul Classics

Half-Day Morning Tour

Discover the heart of Istanbul’s historic Old City, where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires once ruled. This half-day morning tour takes you on a journey through some of the city's most iconic landmarks, offering a deep dive into its rich history and architectural marvels.

Highlights:

  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque – A masterpiece of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, once the largest Eastern Roman Church. Its grandeur, historical significance, and remarkable design make it one of the most visited landmarks in the world.
  • Blue Mosque – Famous for its striking blue İznik tiles and six elegant minarets, this 17th-century mosque is a symbol of Istanbul. (Note: Visits are not available on Fridays due to the noon prayer.)
  • Hippodrome of Constantinople – Once the social and sporting center of Byzantine Constantinople, this historic square is home to significant monuments like the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II.
  • Grand Covered Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest and largest markets, offering a vibrant mix of antiques, jewelry, carpets, leather goods, and souvenirs. (A traditional Turkish carpet weaving demonstration is available upon request.)

Includes: Transportation from the hotel, professional guiding services, entrance fees,

Tour Duration: Half-day, morning tour.

Tour Ends: The tour concludes at Grand Bazaar, where participants can enjoy free time for shopping and exploration.


Byzantine & Ottoman Relics

Full-Day Tour

Step into the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires once ruled. This full-day tour offers a deep dive into the city's rich history, exploring some of its most significant landmarks and cultural treasures.

Highlights:

  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque – A stunning architectural marvel, originally built as the Church of Divine Wisdom. Once the largest Eastern Roman Church, it remains one of the world’s oldest and most iconic religious structures.
  • Blue Mosque – Known for its exquisite blue İznik tiles and unique six-minaret design, this 17th-century mosque stands as a symbol of Ottoman grandeur.
  • Hippodrome of Constantinople – Once the center of chariot races, sports, and political gatherings, it is now home to historic monuments such as the Serpentine Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II.
  • Grand Covered Bazaar – The world’s largest and most vibrant marketplace, featuring nearly 4,000 shops selling antiques, jewelry, carpets, leather goods, and souvenirs. (A traditional Turkish carpet weaving demonstration is available upon request.)

Lunch: A traditional Turkish lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

  • Topkapı Palace – The former residence of Ottoman sultans, displaying an extensive collection of imperial treasures, sacred Islamic relics, Chinese porcelains, Ottoman weapons, and royal artifacts. (Please note: The Harem section is not included in the program, and live guide commentary is restricted in certain areas.)
  • Hagia Irene – Located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace, this is the oldest Eastern Roman Church in Istanbul and the second-largest after Hagia Sophia. Built in 330, it remains a prime example of Byzantine architecture.
  • Sultan Tombs – Situated in the courtyard of Hagia Sophia, this burial site houses the tombs of five Ottoman sultans. The intricate ceramic panels, featuring floral motifs in shades of purple, red, green, and blue, are remarkable examples of 16th-century Ottoman tilework. Visitors can also see prince robes and fragments of the Kaaba cover displayed on the sarcophaguses.

Also viewed during the tour:

  • Galata Bridge
  • Golden Horn
  • Leander’s Tower

Includes: Transportation from the hotel, professional guiding services, entrance fees, lunch

Tour Duration: Full-day tour, ending at approximately 20:00.


Bosphorus Cruise + Dolmabahçe Palace & Two Continents

Full-Day Tour

Experience Istanbul from land and sea, exploring both the European and Asian sides while cruising along the Bosphorus Strait. This full-day tour offers a unique perspective on the city's rich history, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights:

  • Golden Horn (viewed from the bus) – A natural harbor separating the old and new parts of Istanbul, historically home to Byzantine Jews, Italian traders, and other non-Muslim communities.
  • Balat & Fener – A drive through historic districts featuring the Metal Church of St. Stephen, Or-Ahayim Jewish Hospital, Fener Orthodox Patriarchate, and the Byzantine City Walls, one of the strongest fortifications of the Middle Ages.
  • Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) – A vibrant market filled with exotic spices, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delights, and more.
  • Bosphorus Cruise – Sail between Europe and Asia, passing Ottoman palaces, wooden mansions, and modern villas, offering a breathtaking view of Istanbul’s waterfront.
  • Rumeli Fortress (viewed from the boat) – A military stronghold built by Mehmed the Conqueror to control the Bosphorus. (No interior visit.)

Lunch: A traditional Turkish lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

  • Dolmabahçe Palace – The last residence of Ottoman sultans, designed by Karabet and Nikogos Balyan, covering 110,000 m². This opulent palace is known for its European-style architecture, lavish furniture, and the 4.5-ton crystal chandelier. It contains 285 rooms and 46 halls and served as the Ottoman Empire’s main administrative center.
  • Çamlıca Hill – The highest panoramic viewpoint in Istanbul, offering stunning bird’s-eye views of the city, stretching from the Marmara Sea to the Black Sea.

Also viewed during the tour:

  • Imperial Gardens of Yıldız Palace
  • Bosphorus Bridge connecting Europe & Asia
  • Beylerbeyi Palace (viewed from the boat)

Includes: Transportation, professional guiding, entrance fees, lunch, and all mentioned activities.

Tour Duration: Full-day tour, ending at approximately 21:00.

Important Notice: Bosphorus cruises will operate with a regular boat if the minimum number of participants for a private boat is not met.


Cappadocia Tour

2-Day Tour with Roundtrip Flights from Istanbul

Cappadocia, with its extraordinary rock formations, underground cities, and ancient cave churches, offers a unique journey through history and nature. This two-day tour provides an in-depth exploration of this breathtaking region, featuring expert-guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and seamless travel arrangements.

Day 1

Early morning flight to Kayseri or Nevşehir.

  • Devrent Valley – Walk through the Fairy Chimneys, unique natural rock formations shaped by wind and time.
  • Paşabağ (Monks' Valley) – A remarkable area with towering tuff rock formations.
  • Avanos – Experience traditional pottery-making techniques passed down for generations.
  • Göreme Open-Air Museum – Explore some of the earliest rock-carved churches, adorned with frescoes.
  • Uçhisar Castle – The highest natural rock formation in Cappadocia, offering spectacular panoramic views.

Dinner and overnight stay in a cave hotel.

Day 2

  • Hospital Monastery (Panoramic View) – Overlooking one of the oldest monastic settlements in the region.
  • Kızılçukur (Red Valley) & Çavuşin Village – Hike through colorful rock formations and historical dwellings.
  • Kaymaklı Underground City – A multi-level underground city used by early Christians as a refuge.
  • Esentepe Viewpoint – A breathtaking panoramic lookout over Cappadocia’s landscape.
  • Pigeon Valley – Home to the largest collection of ancient pigeon nests carved into the cliffs.

Transfer to the airport and return flight to Istanbul.

Includes:

Transportation, professional guiding, entrance fees, lunch, and all activities mentioned in the itinerary.

Tour Duration:

2-day tour, returning to Istanbul with an late evening arrival on the second day.

Important Notice:

The tour requires a minimum number of participants to proceed.


Ephesus & Virgin Mary's House

Day Trip with Roundtrip Flights from Istanbul

Explore Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities of the Greco-Roman era, and visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a site of religious and historical significance. This full-day tour offers a journey through history, culture, and architectural wonders.

Itinerary

  • Early morning flight to İzmir or overnight bus to Kuşadası, the birthplace of Homer, followed by a transfer to Ephesus.
  • Ephesus Ancient City – Once a major city of the Ionian League and one of the Seven Churches of Anatolia cited in the Book of Revelation.
  • Explore:
    • Marble Street
    • Odeon
    • Bouleuterion
    • Temple of Hadrian and Serapis
    • Agora
    • Library of Celsus
    • Great Theatre
    • Double Church
    • Arcadian Way
    • Gate of Magnesia
  • House of the Virgin Mary – Believed to be the last residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus, located on Mount Solmissos.
  • Lunch in Selçuk.
  • İsabey Mosque – One of the oldest and most significant architectural works from the Anatolian Beyliks period.
  • Temple of Artemis – One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Return to İzmir for evening flight to Istanbul.

Includes:

Transportation, professional guiding, entrance fees, lunch, and all activities mentioned in the itinerary.

Tour Duration:

Full-day tour, returning to Istanbul in the late evening.

Important Notice:

The tour requires a minimum number of participants to proceed.


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