Paris, 28 November 2025 – The United Kingdom and France have launched a new bilateral initiative to strengthen partnerships for future Horizon Europe Research and Innovation projects. As part of this effort, a two-day UK–France Partnership Workshop was held in Paris on 22–23 October 2025, co-organised by Bpifrance, Innovate UK, and the UK Science & Technology Network from the British Embassy in Paris.

Smart Energy Systems as a Shared Strategic Priority

The workshop placed Smart Energy Systems at the heart of discussions, a priority area under Horizon Europe Cluster 5. The goal was clear: to accelerate innovation in integrated, intelligent, and sustainable energy technologies while preparing organisations from both countries for upcoming Horizon Europe calls. The initiative aimed to foster strategic partnerships capable of addressing shared challenges and co-creating solutions for energy resilience and climate-neutral infrastructure, while supporting the EU’s green transition and the digital transformation of energy systems.

Throughout the event, participants explored key topics such as the integration of renewables into intelligent grids, demand-response systems, and AI-driven optimisation. Digitalisation of energy infrastructure was another key focus, with discussions on digital twins, predictive maintenance, cybersecurity, and data governance. System efficiency and flexibility also featured prominently, covering advanced storage technologies, grid stability, and automation for scalable solutions.

 

The event gathered leading organisations from both sides of the Channel. From the UK, participants included Brunel University, Cardiff University, SSE, Centrica, the University of Birmingham, Advanced Infrastructure Technology Ltd, and Ernst & Young (EY). French representation featured EDF, CEA LITEN, Schneider Electric, INRIA, RTE, Supergrid, among others.

Among the highlights was a dynamic speed networking session, which enabled participants to engage in one-on-one meetings to identify common interests and lay the groundwork for consortium building. The delegation was also welcomed at the British Embassy in Paris for a collaborative networking reception, reinforcing bilateral ties and encouraging new partnerships. These interactions brought together stakeholders committed to advancing system efficiency, flexibility, and smart energy infrastructure, in line with shared sustainability goals and Horizon Europe priorities.

Laying the Groundwork for Future Joint Proposals

The workshop concluded with a study visit to EDF Lab Les Renardières, where attendees discovered cutting-edge demonstrations at the Concept Grid Lab and the High-Power Test Station.

This workshop marked the first step in a series of actions designed to accelerate joint proposals for Horizon Europe calls. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to driving innovation in smart energy systems and building a resilient, climate-neutral future.

 

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About  Innovate UK

Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is the United Kingdom’s innovation agency. The mission is to support business growth by enabling the development and commercialisation of new products, processes, and services. This is achieved through an outstanding innovation ecosystem designed to be agile, inclusive, and easy to navigate.

More information on : Innovate UK – UKRI

 

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About Bpifrance

Bpifrance finances companies—at every stage of their development—with loans, guarantees, and equity. Bpifrance supports them in their innovation and international projects. Bpifrance also insures their export activity through a wide range of products. Consulting, university, networking, and acceleration programs for startups, SMEs, and mid-sized companies are also part of the offering for entrepreneurs. Thanks to Bpifrance and its 50 regional offices, entrepreneurs benefit from a local, single point of contact that is effective in helping them meet their challenges.

More information on : www.bpifrance.fr/presse.bpifrance.fr – Follow us on X : @Bpifrance – @BpifrancePresse and on LinkedIn @Bpifrance

Press contact: Claire Joly – claire.joly@bpifrance.fr +33 6 69 47 14 76 Sophie Santandrea – sophie.santandrea@bpirance.fr + 33 7 88 09 28 17