4th Edition of the Climate Talks “Effective Decarbonization of Companies: Should We Invest in Innovation?” 

During the 4th edition of the Climate Talks held in November 2024 at the Bpifrance Hub, Yann Leriche brought together Philippe Aghion, Professor at the Collège de France, Magali Joëssel, Director of the SPI fund at Bpifrance, and Ulrich Hege, Professor at the Toulouse School of Economics, to discuss the importance of innovation in driving companies’ climate transition.

In his introduction, Yann Leriche noted that when discussing the decarbonization of companies, two main levers are often presented: quotas imposed by public authorities to limit companies’ emissions and the carbon tax based on the polluter-pays principle, relying on a carbon price.

The experts unanimously agreed on the importance of innovation for economic actors to effectively engage in the climate transition.

Philippe Aghion emphasized that quotas and the carbon tax are not sufficient, and that green innovation is essential. Ulrich Hege pointed out that investors are increasingly interested in climate technologies, with significant public and private investments. Finally, Magali Joëssel from Bpifrance highlighted the importance of financial support from public authorities to support innovative companies and the need to structure the sectors.

Yann Leriche presented some low-carbon initiatives within Getlink, including the Power to Traction project, which will power operating trains with solar energy through the installation of solar panels on Eurotunnel terminals, and the ElecLink project, the high-voltage cable installed in the Channel Tunnel. He concluded by calling for increased collaboration within the sectors to develop innovations for the climate transition.