Driven by climate targets and ESG reporting obligations, global companies are under pressure to redesign their business models to transition to green energy. In our 41st (!) seminar with former Siemens CEO Prof. Heinrich von Pierer, students analyzed how large energy companies are managing this transition.
Presentations on BP, Saudi Aramco, and Ørsted showed that while sustainable development is now of strategic importance, the pace of change varies. Ørsted has transitioned towards offshore wind energy, while BP and Saudi Aramco are using hybrid models and financing investments in low-carbon technologies through traditional value creation from fossil fuels. Further analysis of Siemens Energy and RWE showed how old structures and market design dictate different paths: Siemens Energy is using a diverse portfolio to stabilize its transition, while RWE faces the challenge of reconciling a strategic realignment with emissions credibility.
The seminar showed that successful energy transitions are context-dependent and are shaped more by the interplay of regulation, ownership structures, and internal governance than by ambition alone. Following their successful presentations, the students took part in an intensive and highly engaging Q&A session with Prof. Pierer. They used the opportunity to challenge key assumptions, probe deeper into practical implications, and discuss alternative career perspectives. The sharp questions and insightful answers made for a lively, thought-provoking exchange.
In the name of all students, Prof. Kai-Ingo Voigt and his team thank Prof. Heinrich v. Pierer and Dr. Ulrich Dörrie for their continuous engagement in our class! We are already looking forward to the summer semester – there is more to come!