Building Electricity Networks for a New Era of Electrification: Insights from CIGRE 2026

The world is on the brink of a new era in electricity, marked by a pressing race to establish the robust energy networks required to support this transition. The central theme of the 2026 CIGRE conference in Paris emphasized the urgent need for action, collaboration, and large-scale implementation from all stakeholders involved in the electricity value chain.

With over 15,000 experts from more than 100 countries and 330 exhibitors in attendance, the conference highlighted the crucial investments needed to upgrade global electricity infrastructure, estimated at a staggering €600 billion annually. Current investments, around $400 billion per year, must increase by approximately 50% by 2030 to keep pace with the electrification of transportation, industry, and buildings, as well as the soaring demand for renewable energy and data centers.

However, this ambitious goal faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure development timelines. While some regions, such as China, can approve and construct high-voltage lines within 1.5 years, projects in Europe and the United States can take eight to ten years or more.

One Grid for the Energy Transition

The success of the energy transition hinges on creating a cohesive and integrated power grid system. This 'One Grid' approach necessitates early and ongoing collaboration among all involved parties in the planning and implementation stages of infrastructure development.

Transmission and distribution operators must synchronize grid expansion and operations. Utilities, manufacturers, and technology providers are urged to enhance their equipment, drive innovation, and expand their industrial capacities. Regulatory bodies and public authorities must establish stable frameworks that both enable investments and ensure public affordability and acceptance.

As Konstantin O. Papailiou, President of CIGRE, succinctly stated, "No Plan B, no Planet B," underscoring the collective responsibility for shaping future electricity systems.

The Vital Need for Skilled Labor

In addition to infrastructure and capital, the electricity sector is grappling with a critical shortage of skilled labor, with fierce competition for engineers, technicians, and digital specialists. Attracting and training qualified personnel has become essential for timely electrification. Currently, approximately eight million individuals globally work in the construction, maintenance, and operation of electricity networks. However, the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that an additional 1.5 million workers will be needed by 2030.

CIGRE addresses these workforce challenges through technical working groups and initiatives such as the CIGRE Innovation and Education Fund, which supports research, scholarships, and training worldwide.

Shaping the Future Together

During the event, the French Minister of Industry, Martin, visited the CIGRE exhibition, emphasizing the importance of collaboration during this current wave of electrification. He reminded attendees that the inaugural CIGRE conference took place in Paris in 1921, and more than a century later, CIGRE continues to unite the entire electricity sector to tackle pressing social, industrial, and ecological challenges.

As the world enters a new age of electricity, one conclusion stands out: A single grid, a unified industry, and shared responsibility are essential for building the power networks that will enable the energy transition.

About CIGRE

CIGRE, a non-profit and independent international organization established 100 years ago, promotes the development of the electricity industry. With 25,000 members across over 140 countries, the community blends local expertise with a global perspective, uniting researchers, engineers, suppliers, regulators, and other stakeholders committed to sharing knowledge and collaboration. CIGRE supports its members through access to working groups, cutting-edge publications, and prominent events like the Paris conference, aiding in solidifying their expertise, developing practical recommendations, and identifying innovative solutions. Over the years, CIGRE has adapted to the phenomenal growth of the electricity sector, which now permeates every aspect of life, from households and mobility to healthcare and industry. CIGRE remains a key player in addressing the current social and environmental challenges and is dedicated to facilitating a sustainable energy transition.