The first of these is at the University of Cambridge and is called
Challenges in Chemical Renewable Energy; it will take place September 3-6. The event is being organised by the
Royal Society of Chemistry. The second has wider parameters;
Advancing the Chemistry of the Actinides is likewise being organised by
the RSC, and will be held at the University of Edinburgh. Any advances in this field are also likely to be controversial. Actinides are heavy elements; if you are not familiar with actinium, try uranium. Reading between the lines of the flyer for the conference, its eventual goal is a new age and new generation of nuclear power stations.
Some would suggest that before we even think about going down that route we should consider
solar power, wind
generators,
kite energy systems,
piezoelectricity, or even
cow dung.