How Europe’s energy leaders are scaling innovation

From Pilots to Profits: Innovation Trends in Europe’s Energy Sector

How are energy companies turning innovation into impact? This report captures insights from 87 organizations across Europe — including utilities, grid operators, and clean energy scale-ups. It explores how the sector is moving from pilots to profitable ventures, where execution gaps remain, and what sets the top performers apart.

The European energy sector is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades — driven by geopolitical shifts, climate targets, and rapid technological change. Innovation is no longer optional. It’s a strategic necessity.

To understand how companies are adapting, V_labs launched the Energy Innovation Survey 2025, gathering insights from 87 professionals across the continent — including utilities, grid operators, oil & gas players, and clean-tech scale-ups.

The results reveal a sector in motion. While nearly every organization recognizes the need for innovation, many remain early in execution. Some are stuck in pilot mode, while others are beginning to generate real commercial impact.

This report takes a closer look at:

What’s driving innovation across the sector
How companies are structuring their venturing units
Where capability gaps and cultural barriers persist
What distinguishes the most successful innovators that are already generating significant revenue from new ventures

It also outlines six strategic recommendations to help companies turn vision into execution — and unlock real value through innovation.

Whether you're a corporate innovator, business builder, or energy executive, this report offers practical insights for navigating one of the most dynamic chapters in the industry’s history.