A Conversation Over Coffee: Shaping the Future of Energy with Angela Wilkinson

On July 10th we had the distinct honor of welcoming Angela Wilkinson, Secretary General and CEO of the World Energy Council (WEC), for an inspiring and forward-looking conversation at Vienna’s historic Café Landtmann. This gathering brought together thought leaders, energy experts, and key stakeholders from Austria to reflect on the evolving role of energy in our societies and how we can collectively navigate the complexities of the global energy transition.

Over coffee and open dialogue, Angela Wilkinson joined the World Energy Council Austria Team and several high-level board members for a meaningful exchange:

• Dr. Peter F. Kollmann, CFO and Deputy CEO of VERBUND

• Dr. Barbara Schmidt, Secretary General of Oesterreichs Energie

• Peter Traupmann, Director of illwerke vkw

Together, we explored the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the energy sector and what it will take to lead with purpose in a fast-changing world.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

A global common good, not a commercial platform
Angela Wilkinson emphasized that the World Energy Council is not just a commercial or technological platform, but a soft power community that aims to foster peace, prosperity, and shared progress. By connecting governments, businesses, and academia, the WEC focuses on amplifying human wisdom in navigating energy transitions, making energy a tool for building a better world.

Championing global inclusion
Energy transitions are not the same everywhere. Angela highlighted the importance of stepping beyond regional perspectives and engaging openly with the new realities in places like the Middle East, China, and the United States. True global collaboration requires listening, inclusion, and a willingness to adapt.

Energy for action, energy for everyone
The World Energy Council works to move beyond political deadlock by encouraging peer-to-peer dialogue and action-driven collaboration. A flexible, multilateral, and human-centered approach is key to addressing the most pressing challenges of our time.

Looking Ahead

Our conversation with Angela Wilkinson wasn’t just a reflection on where we are, it was a powerful look ahead at where we need to go. We are proud to be part of a global community that embraces cooperation, transparency, and shared leadership in shaping the energy systems of the future.

The World Energy Council Austria remains committed to advancing inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered energy transitions. We look forward to continuing this important work with our partners both at home and around the world.