EPICO KlimaInnovation is accompanied by a broad-based, independent Advisory Board with high-level members from politics, business, science, and civil society. The Board advises EPICO’s experts on guidelines and the fundamental orientation of the think tank.
With this interview series, we want to introduce the work, expertise, and motivation of each Member of the Advisory Board, as we delve deep into the main questions concerning the future of Europe’s energy transition.
We are pleased to introduce Wibke Brems. She is the parliamentary leader of the Green Party in the state parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia and has served as an MP since 2010. With a degree in electrical engineering and a focus on renewable energy, she brings in-depth expertise to energy and climate policy debates.
Previously, she was the party’s spokesperson on energy policy, climate protection, mining safety and anti-nuclear policy. For many years, she has also been actively involved at the local level and within the internal structures of Alliance 90/The Greens.
Wibke, what motivated you to join the EPICO advisory board?
At a time when climate policy is increasingly overshadowed by societal tensions, I believe it is crucial to strengthen spaces for constructive, solution-oriented dialogue. That is why I initiated a regular dialogue forum in which experts from diverse disciplines and backgrounds come together to think beyond sectoral silos and share perspectives with a focus on practical solutions.
EPICO offers a similar platform – one that encourages open-minded, evidence-based and technology-neutral exchange. It is a space where the transformation towards climate neutrality can be shaped collaboratively and across political and sectoral boundaries.
My academic and professional background in electrical engineering and renewable energy has shown me that the technical solutions for the energy transition already exist. The key lies in the political framework. Achieving climate neutrality is not a purely technical challenge – it requires a fundamental structural shift that integrates ecological, economic and social dimensions. I want to help bridge technical expertise, political experience and climate ambition. I am convinced that not only can we shape the necessary change – we must do so. Boldly, responsibly, and collectively.
What steps must Europe take to align climate neutrality, innovation and social cohesion?
Europe faces the historic task of redefining prosperity – not at the planet’s expense, but in harmony with it. This requires a policy environment that treats climate neutrality as both a driver of innovation and an opportunity for social progress.
That means targeted investments in green technologies, rapid expansion of infrastructure – from electricity grids to hydrogen pipelines – and reform of internal energy markets to prioritise renewables and enable fair pricing.
But technological innovation alone will not suffice. The ecological transition must be socially supported – with a robust safety net, targeted financial relief and active structural policy to support regions in transition. Climate action must not become a project of the elite. It must offer tangible benefits to everyone – from rural areas to urban centres.
At the same time, Europe needs strategic sovereignty – in raw materials, supply chains and critical technologies. Only then can we remain resilient and capable of action. Just as important, however, is that policy provides reliable and consistent conditions. The recent EU decision to soften CO₂ emissions standards for passenger cars sends a damaging signal to companies that have invested early and are now being punished for their ambition. A predictable policy environment is essential for investment in climate-neutral transformation.
If Europe sets the right course, it can not only lead on climate protection but also become a model for social and technological renewal in a globally challenged world.
How can Germany decarbonise its industry while becoming a leader in green technologies?
Industrial decarbonisation is a formidable challenge – but it also presents a strategic opportunity to reposition Germany as a hub for climate-friendly production and innovation.
This requires affordable, reliable and clean energy, targeted investment in climate-neutral processes and a clear industrial policy framework that facilitates and supports the transition.
A key part of this is accelerating the expansion of renewable energy – not just on paper, but in practice. North Rhine-Westphalia, for example, shows that this is achievable. The state is transitioning from its coal-heavy legacy to becoming a frontrunner in renewables. When the coalition agreement was signed in 2022, the goal of 1,000 new wind turbines by 2027 was viewed by many as overly ambitious. But we are now well on track to exceed it. By early May 2025, more than 1,300 wind turbines had been approved since the start of the black-green coalition. This demonstrates what is possible with political will, streamlined procedures and clear priorities.
But green technologies require more than just cheap electricity. They need skilled labour, a strong European industrial policy, fair competition and strategic partnerships for raw materials and supply chains. If we put these conditions in place, Germany can not only decarbonise its industry but also become a driving force behind a climate-friendly, innovation-led economy of the future.
At EPICO, we are actively addressing key energy transition challenges. We believe that climate and energy policy driven by competition and innovation is essential to efficiently reducing CO2 and other greenhouse gases, while also balancing environmental protection, sustainable economic growth, and socially just equitable outcomes. Discover our latest publications, and upcoming events, and stay tuned for more Advisory Board interviews.