On December 13th, the Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Academy of Sciences (GIEC) hosted the launching ceremony of the International Research Alliance for Low-Carbon Energy Systems (Alliance SEEDs, Systèmes Energétiques Efficients et Décarbonés).

The ceremony was attended by Olivier NGO, Attaché for the Scientific and University Cooperation at the French Consulate General in Guangzhou; Professor Laurent ROYON, Director of Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire des Energies de Demain (LIED UMR8236 CNRS) at Université Paris Cité; Liang Qinru, Deputy Director-General of the Guangdong Provincial Department of Science and Technology; Ru Zhitao, Deputy Director of the Europe Office of the Bureau of International Cooperation at the Chinese Academy of Sciences; and more representatives from Chinese and French institutions. Zhuang Jia, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Science and Technology, extended her congratulations to the alliance via video message.

In his welcome address, Lyu Jiancheng, Director of GIEC, thanked all relevant parties for their dedication and highlighted the alliance's significance in fostering interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration for breakthroughs in key areas.

Professor ROYON shared LIED's rich experience in interdisciplinary energy research and emphasized that collaboration with GIEC will not only leverage research potential but also capitalize on the strategic advantages of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to hasten the industrialization of advanced technologies. He also expressed hopes and expectations for the alliance to become a truly international research cooperation platform by attracting more member institutions globally.

Attaché NGO remarked on the alliance's importance in addressing global challenges like energy transition and the increasing demand for energy, in line with the priorities set at the China-France Science and Technology Cooperation Committee meeting in Paris. The French Consulate in Guangzhou is dedicated to fostering energy and environmental exchanges and expressed support for the alliance's growth.

Deputy Director-General Zhuang Jia commented on China's steadfast commitment to a green and low-carbon transformation in response to climate change. The establishment of the alliance on the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations and the 20th anniversary of strategic partnership, underscores the shared focus on scientific innovation and green development.

Deputy Director-General Liang Qinru shared Guangdong's leading position in low-carbon development and its emphasis on establishing an innovative industry system. He believes the alliance will accelerate scientific and technological cooperation and industrial development in the province's industry and green building sectors, aiding in the achievement of carbon neutrality goals and contributing to the Greater Bay Area's high-quality growth.

Deputy Director Ru Zhitao highlighted the Chinese Academy of Sciences' proactive role in fostering international cooperation in global challenges and advanced science, and expressed hope for the alliance to encourage more scientists, particularly young researchers, to engage.

Professor Guo Xiaofeng from Université Paris Cité, who led the French side of the alliance, reported on its formation, current progress, and future plans, showcasing a comprehensive vision for its development.

The International Research Alliance for Low-Carbon Energy Systems, jointly steered by GIEC and Université Paris Cité, unites the expertise of research institutions and enterprises from both countries. With a focus on low-carbon building technology, industrial energy efficiency, energy strategy in the context of climate change, and advanced energy technologies, the alliance aims to integrate top-tier research capabilities, elevate cooperation, and pioneer new channels for scientific and industrial collaboration towards sustainable development objectives.

This international initiative reflects a joint commitment to addressing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions and is a testament to the strengthening of scientific ties between China and France. The alliance is set to play a positive role in shaping the future of energy systems and contributing to the global pursuit of a low-carbon economy.

Representative Remarks

Official Launching of the Alliance