Q: Power electronics are at the heart of today’s energy transition. What is the challenge in this field, and how does Watt & Well address it?

A: Power electronics play a critical role in the global electrification of economies, from mobility to industrial infrastructure. As systems become more electrified, the challenge is managing, converting it efficiently. At Watt & Well, we design and industrialize high-performance power electronics systems for environments, including Oil & Gas. Every time electricity is stored, charged, or moved in electric vehicles, batteries, or power grids, it needs to be converted and controlled. That is what power electronics do. Our technologies help make electrification scalable and sustainable.

Q: Power electronics often remain invisible to the public. Why has this hidden technology become so strategic?

A: We are convinced that electrification is no longer marginal. We are connecting more renewable energy sources, more batteries, more electric vehicles. The challenge is that these sources and uses do not naturally ‘speak’ the same electrical language. Power electronics are the interface. They convert and control electricity so that sources, storage and systems can exchange energy safely.They convert and control electricity so that sources, storage and systems can exchange energy safely, efficiently.They also provide protection and stability, which is why they are strategic for grids, charging infrastructure, and critical industrial environments such as Oil & Gas.

Q: Europe is investing massively in electrification. Where do you see the main vulnerabilities today?

A: The main risk is not the hardware itself, but losing control over key technologies, especially embedded software and maintenance capabilities. If Europe depends on external suppliers for software updates, maintenance or security, it also depends on them for reliability and long-term resilience. That is where energy sovereignty becomes a very concrete issue.

Q: You strongly advocate for local content in power electronics. Why is this now unavoidable?

A: I consider that these systems are deeply connected to national energy infrastructures. Local content is not about closing markets or protectionism, but is about making sure critical equipment can be maintained, repaired, and secured locally. When power electronics are part of the grid, being close to the technology is essential.

Q: Some argue that local manufacturing is more expensive. How do you respond to that?

A: That argument often focuses only on the initial purchase price, while energy infrastructure requires significant upfront investment and is designed to operate over the long term. When systems are repairable, maintainable, and supported locally, total cost of ownership drops significantly because the equipment lasts longer and causes fewer disruptions, reducing costs and risks. It’s not about paying more, it’s about making smarter long-term investments.

Q: You often mention embedded software. Why is software now central to energy sovereignty?

A: At Watt & Well, we believe that power electronics are no longer passive components. They are connected systems, remotely updated, monitored, and optimized through software. Who controls the software controls how systems perform, how secure they are, and how long they remain reliable.

Q: Cybersecurity is increasingly discussed in relation to grids and charging infrastructure. How serious is the issue?

A: As systems become connected, they also become potential entry points for attacks. Since power electronics are directly linked to grid stability, a weakness at this level can have systemic consequences. That is why cybersecurity must be designed into systems from the start, not added later and at Watt & Well we take this issue seriously.

Q: Repairability is a strong part of your approach. Why does it matter so much?

A: From our experience, we are fully aware that throwing away critical equipment after a failure is neither sustainable nor efficient. Repairable equipment lasts longer, reduces waste, and limits dependence on global supply chains. It also ensures that infrastructure remains available and operational, which is crucial for users and operators alike.

Q: From a transatlantic perspective, how do you compare U.S. and European industrial approaches?

A: The U.S. has been very clear about protecting and structuring its industrial base, especially through local content rules. Europe has strong knowledge but sometimes lacks clarity and consistency. The challenge is not innovation, it is ensuring that key technologies like power electronics are fully recognized and supported.

Q: Looking ahead, what does Europe need to do to secure its energy transition?

A: Europe must clearly recognize power electronics as a strategic technology. This means integrating them fully into industrial and energy policies, setting clear rules on local content, and cybersecurity requirements, and supporting existing industrial capabilities. The technology is already there. What’s needed now is alignment and long-term vision.

This blog post is based on an article from the February 2026 issue of the French-American Chamber of Commerce, Texas, business magazine.