This week we feature a recent episode of IMD's sister podcast, Leaders Unplugged. IMD President David Bach sits down with Henrik Andersen, CEO of Vestas, for a raw conversation on Europe’s energy transition and the courage leaders need to navigate it.
Andersen delivers a stark warning on Europe’s complacency: “Europe is 50% dependent on import of energy day in and day out. The truth is we import more LNG gas from Russia than we did in 2022.” He explains how China is building up its alternative energy capacities faster than any other nation – and dismantles hype around unproven solutions, such as hydrogen: “It is a little bit of a dream that is beyond a dream”.
His purpose for being an outspoken leader is clear: “Our kids will say, ‘we will never forgive you because why did you keep talking about something that doesn’t happen?’” And he delivers a strong lesson to his peers: speak out, take blows, and act boldly in a volatile world.
