EUMICON Workshop 2026
Europe is at a turning point, shaped by the green and digital transitions, rising geopolitical tensions, and intensifying global competition.
In this context, energy has become a critical factor for the raw materials and metals sector, where high energy demand directly affects competitiveness, resilience, and the ability to meet Europe’s climate objectives.
For this reason, EUMICON gathered policymakers, industry leaders, and key stakeholders on 17 March in Brussels. The EUMICON Workshop 2026 offered an important opportunity to explore solutions for a competitive and resilient industrial energy system, focusing on energy security, industrial competitiveness, and the shift to low-carbon technologies:
Opening remarks
MEP Hildegard Bentele highlighted the strategic importance of securing critical raw materials in Europe, emphasizing that access to these resources is a key prerequisite for advancing the energy transition.
Panel Discussion
The panel “Towards a Competitive Industrial Energy System: Challenges, Industry Perspectives, and Solutions” discussed how Europe can ensure affordable energy, advance low-carbon technologies, and manage critical raw materials responsibly. It was moderated by Roman Stiftner, Director General of EUMICON, with the following speakers:
- Mr. Tom Howes - DG ENER
- Mr. Geert Verbeeck - Aperam
- Ms. Caroline Avan - Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
- Mr. Matthias Stalzer -RHI Magnesita
Interactive workshop session
The interactive workshop session on “Shaping Solutions for the Industrial Energy System,” organised into four thematic groups to share practical solutions and industry insights. The workshop highlighted that a competitive and sustainable industrial transition requires coordinated policies and a mix of short and long-term measures.
⚡Competitiveness and carbon costs: Calls for EU-wide indirect CO₂ cost compensation, reinvestment of ETS revenues into energy-intensive industries, and targeted public funding for high-impact decarbonisation sectors.
⚡Decarbonisation technologies and innovation: Highlighted gaps in EU funding for applied, industry-driven projects and the need for mechanisms to support large-scale, cross-border innovation and integrated value chains.
⚡Energy efficiency and circularity: Emphasised strengthening recycling, recycled content requirements, and retaining critical raw materials within the EU to enhance resource efficiency.
⚡Infrastructure and energy security: Prioritised renewable energy technologies, strategic partnerships with third countries, domestic industrial support, and resilience criteria in public procurement.
Closing Speech
MEP Lukas Mandl offered final reflections, highlighting the importance of EUMICON as a platform for constructive dialogue and the ongoing need for cooperation between policymakers, industry, and stakeholders to advance Europe’s industrial competitiveness and energy transition.