In a year marked by accelerating geopolitical tensions, rapid technological change, and mounting pressure on Europe’s industrial competitiveness, the role of research and innovation (R&I) has never been more decisive. The 2025 High-Level Policy Conference brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and the research community to examine how Europe can strengthen its strategic capacity while advancing a sustainable, secure, and climate-neutral energy system.

Across all discussions, one message stood out clearly: harnessing Europe’s world-class energy research is essential to delivering a competitive clean energy transition, enabling the continent to remain resilient in a context of uncertainty and systemic shocks.

The conference explored three interconnected dimensions shaping Europe’s path forward:

• Innovation Hubs and the structural reforms needed to translate scientific excellence into large-scale industrial impact;

• Artificial Intelligence as a strategic enabler of a more efficient, flexible, and integrated energy system—while addressing data, infrastructure and governance challenges;

• Resilience & Preparedness, highlighting how R&I underpins Europe’s ability to anticipate, absorb and recover from disruptions.

The reflections and exchanges throughout the day offered a comprehensive and forward-looking contribution to the European policy debate, reinforcing the importance of placing research and innovation at the centre of political and investment decisions.

Explore the full set of insights and key messages in the 2025 High-Level Policy Conference Report below.