For many decades the « Franco-German engine » was a driver of European integration. The success of many initiatives of both countries was based, among other things, on the fact that they managed to find a compromise in many areas that other member states of the EU could also agree to – despite some very different positions. In recent years, however, this engine seems to have stalled. In the public debate, the differences between the two countries are all too often emphasized, not least on energy issues. At the same time, against the backdrop of a globalised energy market, fragmented supply chains and the increase in local conflicts in the immediate vicinity of the EU, cross-border exchange and international cooperation seem to be more important than they have been for a long time.
The World Energy Council offers a neutral platform for global networking and the exchange of knowledge on international energy issues. It is therefore particularly predestined to initiate a dialogue between high-ranking energy experts from both countries, promote mutual understanding, share different experiences and encourage cross-border cooperation.
The French German Industry Dialogue is a joint initiative created by the World Energy Council Member Committees of France and Germany in 2024. The inaugural Dialogue in Paris (June 2024), hosted at the Sénat, set the tone. The second session in Berlin (July 2025) deepened cooperation and reviewed progress on the joint roadmap.
The Dialogue is an invitation-only format. For more information please contact us.
1st French German Industry Dialogue 2024
The first French German Industry Dialogue took place in June 2024 at the French Sénat in Paris. Bringing together around 20 high-level participants, the session set the tone for the initiative by identifying key areas of cooperation.
Topics ranged from hydrogen demand and regulation in Europe, to the role of biomethane in the energy transition, and the expansion of offshore wind energy in both countries. The inaugural meeting demonstrated the value of an exclusive platform for candid discussions between industry leaders, policymakers, and experts.
2nd French German Industry Dialogue 2025
In just one year, this initiative has created an exclusive forum for senior executives, energy experts, and policymakers from France and Germany to engage in strategic discussions under the Chatham House Rule. Focus areas include electricity market integration, cross-border (electricity, hydrogen, and potentially CO2) infrastructure, industrial decarbonisation, and energy security.
The discussions have prioritised key themes critical for Europe’s energy future such as electricity market integration and cross-border interconnections. Furthermore, the Dialogue highlighted differing national visions on the role of France and Germany as potential transit states for future hydrogen pipelines between Southern and Northern Europe.