Roundtable discussion on the innovation capacity of the northern energy region
Accelerate economic growth in the North. The time is ripe to accelerate and break down barriers. Several powerful reports have been published with a strong ambition and a drive to tackle matters (and innovation) faster and differently. Your input is essential in this regard.
Urgency
Draghi advocates, among other things, for a strong focus on investments in technology, faster innovation, and scaling up to strengthen strategic autonomy and safeguard Europe's economic and geopolitical position.
De Economic Agenda Nij Begun shares the diagnosis that the Netherlands urgently needs to invest in productivity, innovation, and human capital.
The Northern Netherlands possesses space that is scarce elsewhere, an existing energy infrastructure, strong industrial clusters (chemicals, hydrogen, circular plastics, manufacturing), and rapid execution capacity (as proven with the LNG terminal in Eemshaven in 200 days).
This is the moment to collectively strengthen, connect, and accelerate the innovative power of the North! So, what do we do?
Together with decision-makers from the triple helix, professionals and entrepreneurs who can make an impact and truly set change in motion.
We therefore cordially invite you (invites only) to an inspiring working session including dinner, led by Kees Vendrik of the National Climate Platform, on the evening preceding the New Energy Forum.
Practical information
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: Doors open with drinks and light snacks from 17:00, Program content: 18:00 – 20:30
Location: Energy Academy Europe, Zernike Campus (Nijenborgh 6), Groningen
We will work based on the principles of the New Energy Forum: Surprise, Connect, Accelerate, Strengthen
- Where does our innovation strength lie? What do we focus on?
- How do we arrive at new initiatives? How do we achieve shorter lead times from idea to pilot to scaling up to practical implementation, and accelerate procedures?
- How do we involve society and organizations? How do we achieve a growing ecosystem in the energy transition, based on the triple helix?
- How do we strengthen the region's self-awareness? How do we create added value for the region, for the Netherlands, and for Europe?
During this meeting, we will break down sacred cows and work together on concrete starting points to increase Northern innovation capacity. We will share the results the following day during the New Energy Forum.
This is your chance to actively contribute and use your influence.
We look forward to welcoming you. On behalf of National Climate Platform, Municipality of Groningen/Hanze-Entrance/New Energy Coalition
