Trade-offs and transformations
The challenge is no longer simply how we transform energy systems, but how we evolve the leadership needed for the next century of energy.
The assumptions that shaped the last century of energy are giving way to a profoundly different reality. Energy is increasingly intertwined with national security, economic competitiveness, technological innovation and geopolitical influence. As the global landscape evolves, leaders are being asked to make decisions with greater consequence, over longer time horizons and amid unprecedented uncertainty. There are no universal solutions, only different pathways shaped by national priorities, regional realities and changing system needs.
Against this backdrop, rebalancing energy has become a defining leadership challenges of our time. It is not about choosing between security, affordability, sustainability or competitiveness, but continually recalibrating these priorities as circumstances evolve. Doing so demands open and honest dialogue, practical cooperation and a willingness to challenge assumptions.
The World Energy Leaders’ Dialogue will bring together senior leaders and next generation leaders from across government, business, finance and technology to examine what credible leadership looks like in this changing environment. Through candid discussion over three days, participants will explore how today’s trade-offs are reshaping investment, infrastructure, markets and international cooperation, and how strong leadership can help build more resilient, abundant and people-centred energy futures.
As a strategic milestone on the road to the World Energy Congress 2027 in Riyadh, Paris will provide the first opportunity for global leaders to test ideas, challenge each other and shape the conversations that will define the Congress agenda. Together, participants will explore three defining questions:
