Session 2026 - VIDEO : Opening Ceremony

Designed to set the tone for the week ahead, the ceremony will combine strategic vision, technical leadership and celebration of excellence, highlighting the innovation, collaboration and expertise that define the power industry today.

[5:20] Opening address by Konstantin O. Papailiou, President of CIGRE:

The ceremony will open with an address by Konstantin O. Papailiou, who will welcome delegates from around the world and share his perspective on the evolving priorities of the global electricity sector. His remarks are expected to reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing power systems worldwide, as well as the vital role of international cooperation in shaping a secure, sustainable and resilient energy future.

[18:10] Keynote speech by Tim Meyerjürgens, CEO of TenneT Germany:

A highlight of the Opening Ceremony will be the keynote speech delivered by Tim Meyerjürgens, one of Europe’s leading executives in transmission system development and energy transition strategy. Drawing on his experience at TenneT, he will provide valuable insights into grid transformation, infrastructure expansion, market integration and the future of electricity networks in an increasingly decarbonised world.

[36:05] Technical programme presentation by Rannveig Løken, CIGRE Vice-President Technical:

Delegates will then hear from Rannveig Løken, CIGRE Vice-President Technical, who will present the Session’s technical programme. This overview will introduce the major themes, discussions and innovations that will shape Paris Session 2026, offering participants a roadmap to a week of high-level exchanges, technical expertise and forward-thinking debate.

[49:00] One Grid Initiative presentation by Nenad Uzelac:

Nenad Uzelac will present CIGRE’s One Grid Initiative, which reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of today’s power system and the need for a holistic approach across the entire electricity value chain. The presentation will highlight CIGRE’s ambition to bring together expertise, technologies and perspectives from across its global community to address the challenges of the energy transition and help shape the power system of the future.

[1:03:55] CIGRE Innovation & Education Fund presentation by Michael Heyeck:

Michael Heyeck will introduce the CIGRE Innovation & Education Fund, a global initiative designed to invest in the future of power systems through research, education and knowledge development. He will highlight how the Fund supports innovative projects, graduate scholarships, educational programmes and humanitarian initiatives, helping CIGRE turn expertise and ideas into practical contributions to the energy transition.

[1:19:40] CIGRE Awards Ceremony celebrating excellence :

The Opening Ceremony will conclude with the CIGRE Awards ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions to the power system industry and to the global CIGRE community. These honours celebrate individuals whose commitment, leadership and technical achievements continue to advance the sector worldwide.

[1:44:32] Closing speech by Konstantin O. Papailiou