Innovating to Net Zero
Panel discussion

Innovating to Net Zero

To wrap up ESF Europe 2024, our attention turned to innovation and its important role in reshaping today’s energy mix. Götz Erhardt, CEO Industry X for EMEA, Accenture led an esteemed panel comprising of Belén Linares Corell , Head of R&D and Innovation, CEPSA , Manuel Andrade , Head of Open Innovation, Galp , Robert Hurný, MBA , Head of MOL Group DS Research & Development, MOL and Lars Peter Lindfors , Senior Advisor, Neste to close the event discussing Innovating to Net Zero.


Some key takeaways from the discussion include:

  • Making room for innovation - Galp's recently launched Upcoming Energies platform demonstrates a commitment to embracing innovation by engaging with external sources. The same goes for Cepsa, who are accelerating net positive technologies with Cepsa’s Energy Transition Innovation Centre.
  • Broadening our feedstock horizons - Neste has been a pioneer in transitioning to renewable energy sources, experiencing a significant shift from fossil to renewable fuels over the past decade. Their ongoing journey includes expanding feedstock options, such as lignocellulosics and green hydrogen, to transform their refinery into a circular and renewable-based facility within the next decade.
  • Revamped R&D strategies - MOL Group's approach emphasises the need for agility, proximity to business goals, and securing adequate funding to drive innovation.
  • Incremental operational excellence - Aligning R&D with operational strategies enables companies to effectively monetise innovation. Breaking down barriers between research and business units offers opportunities to maximise the commercial potential of emerging technologies.
  • Innovation needs to go beyond regulation - To achieve meaningful progress, companies must innovate beyond regulatory requirements. By forging partnerships and ecosystems, businesses can create their own pathways, setting new standards for the industry.
  • We need to partner now and work on ventures together - As echoed throughout the conference, we cannot do this alone. Collaborating allows us to share risks and accelerate innovation. By investing in partnerships, such as Neste's minority shareholding in specialised companies, organisations can access diverse expertise.
  • Scaling R&D testing in commercial facilities - Prioritising small, manageable steps in research and development allows for effective commercialisation. By managing project complexities and balancing portfolios, companies can better mitigate risks.



📖 Like what you read?

This article is part of an extensive post-show report on the ESF Europe - Energy & Sustainability Forum that took place in Madrid in February 2024. We look forward to releasing the full report. In the meantime, head to europetro.com/esfeurope for more details about the event and how to get involved!

✏️ Save the dates!

The next edition of ESF Europe will take place in Vienna, Austria, in February 2025, with the support of our co-host, OMV . Make sure you take part in it!

ESF Europe 2025



To view or add a comment, sign in

More articles by Euro Petroleum Consultants

Insights from the community

Others also viewed

Explore topics