France Makes a Mark at CERAWeek 2025

Bpifrance Leadership at CERAWeek

Bpifrance’s participation in CERAWeek 2025 was especially notable. Amid policy uncertainty under the new administration and ongoing geopolitical challenges, CERAWeek serves as a vital forum for global leaders to devise tangible solutions. The core message this year was clear: fueling economic growth requires substantial energy, and all energy sources are welcome. However, two particular sectors took center stage—gas and nuclear.

This perspective contrasts with the current European focus on reducing energy consumption and increasing efficiency. Eager to understand this disparity firsthand, three Bpifrance executives visited Houston:

• Arnaud Caudoux, Deputy CEO of Bpifrance
• Olivier Vincent, Executive Director of Exports (leading teams that help companies develop international business opportunities)
• Vanessa Giraud, Director of the Environmental Impact Fund (PE)

Working with FACC Texas, Bpifrance’s senior leadership held around ten meetings with prominent figures from the energy sector and global investors. These discussions provided insights into forward-thinking energy strategies and highlighted potential investment opportunities. This initiative aligns with Bpifrance’s broader mission to collaborate with international partners and drive the energy transition forward.

Creating Business Opportunities for French Companies

In addition to Bpifrance’s leadership, 13 innovative French companies showcased their cutting-edge technologies related to the energy transition. Their offerings spanned strategic areas such as clean lithium extraction, nuclear, renewable natural gas (RNG), hydrogen, and more. These companies aimed not only to present France’s technological expertise but also to expand their businesses in the U.S.

FACC Texas drew on its industry expertise and extensive network to design a packed and productive program. The week featured nearly 100 B2B meetings with leading innovators and decision-makers in energy and decarbonization. With support from Consul General Valérie Baraban, the delegation had the opportunity to meet the French Ambassador, followed by a networking reception with over 40 energy executives.

Additional sessions offered deeper insight into doing business in Texas and the broader U.S. market, including a luncheon hosted by French Tech Houston and a breakfast with Audrey Robat, CTO North America for Engie, spotlighting the challenges and opportunities of the U.S. energy transition. The group also toured Engie’s battery facilities—powering American Big Tech with clean energy—and visited Halliburton Labs, an innovative accelerator.