Energize Competitiveness

Smart. Safe. Stable.

15 October 2026 | Galerie Mánes, Prague | 4:00–8:00 p.m.

We will publish further details on registration and the terms and conditions of participation shortly.

The GCEF 2026 places energy at the centre of the debate as a decisive factor for competitiveness in the German-Czech and European economic context. Under the theme "Energize Competitiveness – Smart. Safe. Stable.", the conference will focus on smart energy solutions, a safe and reliable energy supply, and stable, affordable energy prices as the foundation for industrial strength, economic resilience and technological sovereignty. It will explore how the differing energy strategies of Czechia and Germany can become an opportunity for closer cooperation rather than a burden—from grid technologies and energy storage to nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and fusion energy.

Programme 2026

Preliminary „Expert“ Programme to the GCEF 2026 | 1:00–2:30 p.m.

more information

Main Conference Programme GCEF 2026 | 4:00–8:00 p.m.

Moderation: Michala Hergetová

4:00 p.m.

Registration

4:30 p.m.

Welcome Addresses

Milan Šlachta, President of the German Czech Chamber, Representative of Bosch Group CZ & SK
Bernard Bauer, Executive board member of the German-Czech Chamber
Karel Havlíček, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic
Dr. Thomas Steffen, State Secretary, Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy

5:00 p.m.

Keynote I

Claudia Viohl, CEO and Chairwoman of the Board of E.ON Czech Republic

5:30 p.m.

Panel Discussion I: Business Leaders

"How can companies remain competitive in an energy-intensive economy?"

Leaders from Czech and German industry discuss how energy supply, energy costs, infrastructure, innovation and digitalisation affect investment decisions and future competitiveness.

Panellists:

C-Level from Akkodis, Bosch, E.ON, Horváth, T-Business, Škoda Auto, Aimtec

Coffee Break

6:40 p.m.

Keynote II

Top-level speaker from the industry (Pending, to be announced soon.)

7:10 p.m.

Panel Discussion II

"How can Czechia and Germany jointly shape the future of energy?"

Representatives of associations, public institutions, research and the energy sector discuss how energy policy synergies between Czechia and Germany can be created.

Panellists: