Bransjeekspedisjon til Brüssel og Paris
22. - 24. april 2026
Fra EU-politikk til fransk energidynamikk
Smart Energy Network inviterer til en eksklusiv bransjeekspedisjon til Brussel og Paris våren 2026.
Dette er en unik mulighet til å oppleve hvordan Europa former fremtidens energimarked – fra EUs politiske beslutningssentre i Brussel til innovasjons- og teknologimiljøene i Paris. I lys av den geopolitiske situasjonen er Europa blitt viktigere enn noen gang.
I Brussel vil vi møte sentrale aktører i EU-institusjonene og vil få førstehåndskunnskap om hvordan reguleringer, energipolitikk og finansieringsordninger driver det grønne skiftet. Paris representerer en av Europas mest dynamiske energiarenaer, med en unik kombinasjon av sterke statlige satsinger på kjernekraft og fornybar energi, og et voksende økosystem innen teknologi, finans og industri som skaper nye forretningsmuligheter.
Bransjeekspedisjonen gir en sjelden kombinasjon av strategisk innsikt, faglig oppdatering og nettverksbygging på høyeste nivå –med direkte møte
Nils Klippenberg
Chairman
Ragnvald Nærø
CEO Smart Energy Network
Bjarne Hareide
Expedition lead
Program - oversikt
Vi ser frem til å ønske dere velkommen til Brussel og Paris!
Tirsdag 21. april starter vi med en felles middag på kvelden for dem som har ankommet. Dette blir en uformell og hyggelig start på studieturen, med god tid til å lande, bli bedre kjent og sette rammen for dagene som kommer.
Onsdag 22. april åpner vi programmet på hotellet før vi møter Energikommisæren. Deretter følger arbeidslunsj og møte i Europaparlamentets ITRE-komité (Industry, Research and Energy Committee). Dagen avsluttes med møte med ENTSO-E før vi på ettermiddagen tar toget fra Brussel til Paris. Det blir enkel middag ved ankomst.
Brussel er selve hjertet av europeisk energipolitikk. For norske energiselskaper er byen strategisk avgjørende. Det er her reguleringer, taksonomi, nettregulering, markedsdesign og støtteordninger formes – beslutninger som direkte påvirker Norge gjennom EØS-avtalen. Å forstå Brussel er å forstå fremtidens rammevilkår for norsk energisektor.
Torsdag 23. april starter vi dagen med debrief før vi møter IEA (International Energy Agency). Etter arbeidslunsj besøker vi OECD. Kvelden avsluttes med felles middag i Paris.
Paris representerer samtidig noe mer enn politikk og multilaterale institusjoner. Frankrike er en nøkkelaktør i Europas energiomstilling, med tung satsing på kjernekraft, hydrogen, elektrifisering og industrielle verdikjeder. Paris har de siste årene også befestet sin posisjon som en ledende europeisk innovasjonsby, med sterke teknologimiljøer, startups og større industrikonsern som jobber tett med digitalisering og bærekraft. Byen kombinerer statlig strategisk kraft med privat innovasjon – en modell som gir viktige perspektiver for norske aktører.
Fredag 24. april begynner vi med debrief før vi besøker Sopra Steria. Etter lunsj har vi felles møter i ambassadørens residens. Studieturen avsluttes med faglige samtaler og oppsummering før hjemreise.
En viktig del av studieturen handler om å oppleve virksomhetene på nært hold. Å møte ledere og fagpersoner ansikt til ansikt, stille spørsmål direkte og få innsikt i hvordan beslutninger faktisk tas i praksis, gir en helt annen læringseffekt enn å lese rapporter eller høre foredrag på avstand. Når vi i tillegg bearbeider inntrykkene sammen gjennom debrief-møter, forsterkes læringen ytterligere. Det kollektive refleksjonsrommet gjør at erfaringer omsettes til konkret innsikt – og forhåpentligvis til handling når vi kommer hjem.
Vi ser frem til noen svært innholdsrike dager med faglig påfyll, strategisk innsikt og gode samtaler – og ikke minst til å dele denne opplevelsen med dere.
Program i Brüssel
Besøk hos IEA (International Energy Agency)
- Onsdag 18. februar
- kl. 09:30
- For mer informasjon: iea.org
International Energy Agency (IEA) i Paris er verdens sentrale organ for energisikkerhet og analyse. For Smart Energy Network er dette besøket særlig relevant da IEA leder an i utformingen av veikart for netto nullutslipp, hvor digitalisering og smarte nettverk er kritiske komponenter.
Vi vil få innsikt i globale energitrender og hvordan integrasjon av fornybare kilder krever avansert styringsteknologi og internasjonalt samarbeid for å sikre fremtidens stabile kraftsystemer.
9 rue de la Fédération
75739 Paris Cedex 15
NBIM
As Norwegians, we are all familiar with Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM) and its role in managing the Norwegian Oil Fund. With London as one of its key international hubs, NBIM is closely connected to the global financial markets where much of the fund’s investments are made.
During our visit, we will meet NBIM’s representatives to gain valuable insights into their perspective on the green transition in the UK — how they have invested, why they have chosen certain strategies, and what they see as the key opportunities and risks ahead.
A particular focus will be on how NBIM is adapting its investments in light of the shifting geopolitical landscape, and what this means for future strategies linked to sustainability and energy markets.
Key Learning Points:
Understand how NBIM views investment opportunities and risks in the UK’s green transition.
Explore how the new geopolitical situation is shaping investment strategies in global energy markets
Timeslot: 15:00 - 16:00
Location: Queensberry House, 3 Old Burlington Street, London W1S 3AE
Siemens UK
Through the strong network of Smart Energy Network, and thanks to Nils Klippenberg — CEO of Siemens Norway and Chairman of Smart Energy Network — we have secured an exclusive meeting with Carl Ennis, CEO of Siemens UK.
Siemens is one of the leading global technology companies driving the energy transition through electrification, automation, and digitalization. In the UK, Siemens plays a critical role in developing smart infrastructure, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable technologies for cities, industries, and energy systems.
Carl Ennis will share insights into how Siemens UK views the future of energy, how they are adapting to political and market shifts, and what new opportunities they see emerging through technology and innovation.
This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from one of the key leaders shaping the green transition in the UK.
Key Learning Points:
Gain first-hand insights into how a global technology leader is driving sustainable energy solutions in the UK market.
Understand the strategic role of digitalization and smart infrastructure in accelerating the energy transition.
Timeslot: 16:00 - 17:00
Location: Queensberry House, 3 Old Burlington Street, London W1S 3AE
Smart Energy Network Reception
We are delighted to invite you to an evening reception hosted by Smart Energy Network and Sustainable Venture during our study tour to London. This event will bring together participants of our discovery expedition, guest speakers and friends of our network – all concerned about speeding up the green transition.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, 7. May 2025
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Venue: Sustainable Ventures, 5th Floor, County Hall, Belvedere Road, London SE1 7PB
The evening will feature a keynote address by Ragnvald Nærø, CEO of Smart Energy Network, highlighting our vision and initiatives in the energy sector.​
Guests will enjoy a selection of light finger food and accompanying beverages in a setting that fosters networking and collaboration.​
Program i Paris
Sustainable Ventures
On Thursday morning, we will visit Sustainable Ventures, one of the UK’s leading hubs for innovation in sustainability and energy technology. Located near London’s South Bank, Sustainable Ventures is home to a vibrant ecosystem of startups, scale-ups, and investors focused on delivering solutions for a net-zero future.
Since its founding in 2011, Sustainable Ventures has supported the growth of over 500 sustainable businesses through investment, innovation support, and access to collaborative workspaces. The organization is recognized as one of Europe’s largest communities for climate tech entrepreneurs.
Our visit will begin with a presentation by Sustainable Ventures, providing an overview of their mission, operations, and insights into how the UK's innovation ecosystem is accelerating the green transition. Following the introduction, we will meet a curated selection of pioneering companies working within energy, sustainability, and smart technologies.
Throughout the morning and up until after lunch, you will have the opportunity to engage directly with these entrepreneurs, learn about cutting-edge solutions, and explore potential partnerships or collaborations.
Key Learning Points:
Gain insights into how Sustainable Ventures supports climate innovation and entrepreneurship.
Discover emerging trends and breakthrough technologies shaping the future of energy and sustainability.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14:00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
GridDuck
GridDuck is a UK-based energy tech company offering a wireless, cloud-based platform for real-time energy monitoring and control. Designed for commercial buildings and multi-site operators, it enables remote management of electrical systems—such as HVAC, lighting, and machinery—using simple plug-and-play devices. The platform provides detailed energy data, supports sub-metering, and uses AI to identify inefficiencies and automate demand response. GridDuck helps reduce energy waste, lower costs, and meet sustainability goals, all without major infrastructure changes. Its scalable, easy-to-deploy solution makes it ideal for property owners and energy consultants aiming to optimize performance and decarbonize existing building portfolios.
Key Learning Points:
Scalable retrofitting: Smart energy systems can be implemented without major infrastructure investments, accelerating the energy transition in existing buildings.
Granular insights drive action: Real-time, zone-level data empowers faster decision-making and more effective energy-saving measures.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14:00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
City Science
City Science is a growth-stage company based at County Hall, working closely with local authorities and major organizations across the UK. Their mission is to achieve meaningful carbon reductions through smarter transport, energy, and infrastructure planning. City Science provides advanced data analytics and strategic advisory services that support systemic change and sustainable urban development. Their approach offers valuable perspectives on how innovation can effectively engage public authorities to deliver real climate impact.
Key Learning Points:
Learn how systemic innovation can support carbon reduction goals in cities and regions.
Understand how to successfully engage with public authorities to implement sustainable solutions.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14:00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
UK NNL (National Nuclear Laboratory)
The UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is the UK government's leading center for nuclear science and innovation. NNL focuses on supporting the safe, secure, and sustainable use of nuclear technology. Their work includes research into advanced nuclear systems, nuclear energy’s role in net-zero strategies, and how nuclear innovation can complement renewable energy.
Key Learning Points:
Learn about the evolving role of nuclear energy in the green transition.
Understand how innovation in nuclear technology can contribute to sustainable energy systems.
Timeslot: 09.00 - 14-00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
Vyinteligence
Vyinteligence uses AI and machine learning to automate the analysis of complex infrastructure projects, including energy networks and smart cities. Their platform helps utilities and energy companies accelerate planning, reduce costs, and improve decision-making by turning unstructured data into actionable insights.
Key Learning Points:
Understand how AI can automate infrastructure analysis and support smarter energy systems.
Learn how to reduce complexity and speed up decision-making in large-scale energy projects.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14.00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
Techport (Netherlands)
Techport is a Dutch innovation hub focused on advancing sustainable technology in industry and energy. It brings together companies, research institutions, and educational partners to accelerate the development and implementation of green technologies. Techport’s initiatives support cross-border collaboration, especially between the Netherlands and the UK, in areas such as smart manufacturing, clean energy, and the circular economy.
Key Learning Points:
Explore how innovation hubs foster collaboration across borders to drive sustainable technology adoption.
Understand key trends in smart industry and clean energy from a Dutch perspective.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14:00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
Open Horizon
Open Horizon is a Norwegian technology company based in Stavanger. The company has developed an AI-driven platform for risk assessment and management, focusing on threat actors, nation-state activities, and other key security factors. Their platform combines automated intelligence production with human expertise, using graph technology and estimation models to deliver precise and actionable insights. Open Horizon is now expanding into the UK market, aiming to support energy companies and public authorities with smarter risk and security solutions.
Key Learning Points:
Understand how AI and graph technology can be used to analyze complex security landscapes and support strategic decision-making in the energy sector.
Learn how automated intelligence can strengthen security strategies in a changing geopolitical environment.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14:00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
Wazoku
Wazoku is a UK-based innovation platform company helping organizations solve complex challenges through crowdsourcing and open innovation. Founded in London in 2011, Wazoku enables businesses, public sector bodies, and research organizations to access global communities of problem-solvers through their platform. Their approach connects companies with innovators worldwide to generate sustainable solutions, drive operational improvements, and accelerate the transition to a greener economy.
Wazoku’s clients include major corporations and public institutions looking to harness external ideas to tackle pressing issues, including energy transition, climate innovation, and infrastructure resilience.
Key Learning Points:
Learn how open innovation and crowdsourcing can be used to accelerate sustainable solutions and technological breakthroughs.
Understand how organizations are leveraging global talent to solve complex energy and climate challenges faster and more effectively.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14:00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
Airmyne
Airmyne is a climate tech startup based in Berkeley, California, focused on developing scalable, low-energy direct air capture (DAC) technology to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere. The company uses a liquid sorbent that is regenerated using low-temperature heat (100–130°C), making it possible to utilize geothermal energy and industrial waste heat. This reduces energy costs and improves operational efficiency compared to traditional DAC methods. Airmyne’s modular system is designed for integration into various industrial settings, such as chemical plants and breweries. In partnership with Fervo Energy, Airmyne aims to capture and store CO₂ in geological formations in California, contributing to permanent carbon removal at scale.
Key Learning Points:
Leveraging low-grade heat sources for efficient DAC.
Modular design enabling broad industrial integration.
Timeslot: 09:00 - 14.00, including lunch
Location: County Hall, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PB, Storbritannia
Imperial Collage
We will meet with Dr. Adrià Junyent-Ferré who is a Reader in Power Electronics at the Dept. of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Imperial College London. He obtained his degree in Industrial Engineering from the School of Industrial Engineering of Barcelona (ETSEIB), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) in 2007, and the PhD degree in Electrical Engineering from the same university in 2011.
He was a researcher at the Centre d'Innovació Tecnològica en Convertidors Està tics i Accionaments (CITCEA-UPC) from 2006 to 2012, where he worked on grid integration aspects of wind power generation in collaboration with Alstom Wind (former Ecotecnia s.coop). He joined the Control and Power Resarch Group of the Dept. of Electrical and Electronic Eng. at Imperial College London as a Research Associate in February 2013 and became a Lecturer in September 2014.
His field of expertise is the design and control of power electronic converters. He has specific interest in HVDC transmission and new forms of low voltage power distribution. His research focuses on the development of control methods to enable a cost-effective low carbon power system based on renewable generation. He leds the RENGA project (EP/R030235/1) a Global Challenges Research Funds project to developed solutions to expand an electrical power system starting from small scale autonomous minigrids. He is a senior member of IEEE and a member of the IEEE Power & Energy Society and the IEEE Control Systems Society. He served as Associeta Editor of the IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery and IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy. He is the course director for the Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree and teaches several modules related to control of power electronic converter technology and real-time signal processing.
Timeslot: 15:00 - 16.00
Location: Imperial Collage, Roderick Hill Building 412
Everybody need to book their own tickets. Here is the link: https://mammamiatheparty.co.uk/tickets/
Please note that participants must book their own tickets for Mamma Mia! The Party, as this is not included in the official program. Here is the link to book: https://mammamiatheparty.co.uk/tickets/
Program Friday
Bloomberg New Energy Finance
Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) is one of the world’s leading providers of strategic research, data, and analysis on the energy transition. Their insights help businesses, investors, and governments navigate the rapidly changing landscape of renewable energy, advanced transport, sustainable materials, and digital industry innovation.
During our visit to BNEF’s London headquarters — located in one of the world’s most sustainable office buildings, Bloomberg’s European HQ — we will experience both cutting-edge energy knowledge and groundbreaking architecture. The building itself has achieved the highest ever BREEAM sustainability rating, reflecting innovation in energy efficiency, water conservation, and material use.
Schedule Overview:
8:30–9:00 AM | Arrival and light breakfast
9:00 AM | Welcome, introductions, and objectives
9:15 AM | Energy Transition Trends Overview + Q&A
9:35 AM | Power Trends, including Wind and UK focus + Q&A
10:15 AM | Session close and next steps
10:30–11:15 AM | Building tour and farewells
This visit offers a unique opportunity to gain critical insights into global and UK energy trends — and to experience one of the most forward-thinking workplaces in sustainable design.
Key Learning Points:
Understand the latest global trends shaping the energy transition and the future of power systems, with a special focus on the UK.
Learn how sustainable building design can drive both operational excellence and environmental leadership.
Timeslot: 08:30 - 11:30, including lunch
Location: 3 Queen Victoria St, City of London, London EC4N 4TQ, Storbritannia
Amazon
With over 20 years of experience in the energy industry, Damien is the Industry Lead for Renewables, Electrical Networks and Energy Services at AWS, globally responsible for supporting customers accelerate the energy transition. Damien’s particular area of expertise is in leveraging data to drive innovation at scale.
Prior to this role, Damien was the Chief Digital Officer of the renewables division of EDF where he was based in Paris and led the digital transformation of the group, following on from more than 10 years of experience in North America leading innovation and product development. Damien has a PhD in Physics for the University of Sydney and post-doctoral experience at University College London.
Presentation overview: "Accelerating the Energy Transition"
This presentation explores the global transition to clean energy through cloud technology and sustainable solutions. You'll learn about:
The future energy landscape through 2050
Amazon's renewable energy achievements and net-zero commitments.
Key technology solutions for utilities and energy companies
Real-world success stories from major energy providers including Octopus, Engie and EDF.
Timeslot: 12:00 - 14:00
Address: Amazon Corporate Office LHR16
Address: 1 Principal Pl, London EC2A 2FA, United Kingdom
Practical information
We stay at Hotel Indigo Leicester Square
Hotel Indigo London Leicester Square is a boutique hotel in the heart of London’s West End, inspired by the glamour of the surrounding theatre district. The hotel features contemporary design, with some rooms offering views over Leicester Square. Guests have easy access to Covent Garden, Soho, and Trafalgar Square, and can enjoy the rooftop bar and restaurant after a day in the city. Hotel Indigo blends local character with modern comfort, offering a stylish and central base for your stay.