In a new Microsoft TechTalk, Ann Mettler, President of Catalyse Europe, joins the discussion on what Europe needs to compete in the next wave of digital innovation. 

Ann highlights how Europe’s AI future will depend on its energy future. As compute and power become increasingly intertwined, Europe’s ability to scale AI, strengthen competitiveness and protect its social and economic model will rest on access to abundant, affordable and clean energy. 

Ann argues that Europe enters this race from a challenging position. The EU remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, while key clean technology industries have moved elsewhere. “AI is basically predicated on abundant and cheap energy,” she says, warning that Europe has too often made energy “expensive and scarce”. 

The conversation looks at what must change: faster permitting, stronger industrial strategy, more resilient supply chains and a policy environment built around scale, speed and simplicity. Ann also points to Europe’s enduring strengths, from research and innovation to materials science, circularity and the technologies needed to optimise energy systems. 

As she puts it: “We are seeing the fusion of compute and power in ways that I think very few people had anticipated.” 

Watch the full TechTalk with Ann Mettler here.