On December 3, 2025, we welcomed more than 100 guests from politics, business, industry, and associations to the Berlin Energy Policy Dialogue 2025 at the Academy of Arts.

 The event kicked off with an impressive solo slam by Rainer Holl entitled “Energy Transition with Molecules”. With pointed questions, clear statements, and surprising food for thought, he succeeded in immediately captivating the audience. With humor and precision, he conveyed new perspectives on the energy transition. Holl — author, poetry slammer, coach, and presenter—is one of the most prominent voices in science communication and storytelling. His contribution made it clear how knowledge can be conveyed in a lively and inspiring way.

 The energy from the slam was picked up by the subsequent keynotes from Dr. Thomas Hüwener and Dr. Alexander Lücke. Hüwener emphasized the central importance of a triad of molecules – CH₄, H₂, and CO₂ – for the future of energy:

• Natural gas as a bridge to a greenhouse gas-neutral future and a guarantee for security of supply.
• Hydrogen as a climate-neutral, flexible, and large-scale storage and transport solution.
• Carbon management as a necessary response to unavoidable emissions, in particular through the construction of CO₂ pipelines.

The discussion was moderated by Marco Seiffert, who led the discussion with expertise and a keen sense of dynamics.

The key messages were clear:

• Achieve climate targets, secure supply, and ensure affordable prices at the same time.
• The triad of methane, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) is not optional, but a basic prerequisite for a successful energy transition.

 Inspired by the presentations and the discussion, the participants then took the opportunity to continue the discussion in personal exchanges — in a relaxed atmosphere and with a view of the Brandenburg Gate.