On July 1st, Federico Nahuel Lazzari, Director of GBS’ Brussels Office, represented GBS at the Eurogas Renewable Gas Conference in Brussels. This is an annual gathering of EU policymakers, industry leaders and experts discussing the future of renewable and low-carbon gases. This year was titled “Advancing Europe’s strategic autonomy: Renewable gases for a competitive industry, clean maritime transport, and affordable heating”. Its focus was on a key question for the EU in 2026: how to reconcile decarbonisation with industrial competitiveness, affordable energy, and greater energy independence. These are topics that GBS is following closely through its projects in Bulgaria, while also working with industry leaders, policymakers and researchers from Europe and the United States to exchange knowledge and develop practical solutions for the energy transition.

Speech Topics

The conference included a keynote speech by Edith Hofer, Deputy Head of Unit for Decarbonisation and Sustainability of Energy Sources at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy. It then concluded with remarks from Jens Geier, Member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research, and Energy. Their involvement showed how important renewable gases are as Europe works to meet climate goals while staying competitive and secure.

Many discussions focused on the European Commission’s new priorities under the Clean Industrial Deal. Speakers talked about how renewable hydrogen and biomethane can help energy-intensive industries cut emissions and stay competitive. They also discussed the use of these gases in maritime transport and providing affordable, sustainable heating for all buildings. It became clear that Europe’s energy transition will require ambitious climate policies, investment in modern infrastructure and reliable energy supplies.

Themes of the Conference

Another key theme at the conference was the need for stable regulations to encourage investment in new technologies and infrastructure. Many speakers stressed that Europe’s climate goals will only be achieved if laws are implemented quickly, as well as with public authorities, industry, and investors working closely together. Both public and private investment help accelerate the rollout of renewable gas infrastructure across Europe.

For GBS, these topics are closely linked to the future of construction and infrastructure. Buildings, industrial facilities, transport infrastructure, energy networks, logistics hubs, and urban development projects are increasingly relying on low-carbon energy. How these projects are planned, designed, financed, and built in the future is now shaped at the European level. These developments also give GBS an opportunity to share its experience from Bulgaria with the wider European community. This would allow GBS to work more closely with other organizations facing similar challenges.

Taking Part in the Conversation

After the conference, the networking event provided GBS with a great opportunity to share ideas with experts from various groups. These include: the European Commission, Shell Energy Europe, Tata Steel Nederland, Glass for Europe, Metlen Energy & Metals, ENTSOG, and the European Heating Industry Association.

Through its Brussels Office, GBS continues to take part in the European conversation on energy and industrial development. By staying involved, the company can build new partnerships, grow its network, and support new solutions for the sector.