Vanessa Johnson
Project Manager - Government Projects & Trade Missions Consulting Services
+1 (404) 586-6838 vjohnson@gaccsouth.com
Sustainable Solutions with Economic Impact
Both Germany and the United States are actively driving the transformation of their energy systems. However, the approaches vary drastically under different political, regulatory, and market conditions. Global geopolitical shifts and changes in national policy have underscored the urgency and complexity of implementing sustainable energy systems on both sides of the Atlantic.
Germany is pursuing ambitious strategies for decarbonization and the development of a hydrogen economy. In contrast, many states in the southeastern U.S. are embracing CleanTech primarily as an economically driven opportunity, often independently of federal policy in Washington. Technologies such as renewable energy, energy storage solutions, smart grids, community-based microgrids, and circular economy models are gaining traction across the region. These innovations are key to enhancing energy independence, climate resilience, and long-term competitiveness.
Learn more about our upcoming Ambassador Trip to the Carolinas in May 2026.
Program Objectives
This transatlantic program promotes dialogue and cooperation between local stakeholders in both countries. Its core objectives are to:
- Strengthen knowledge and technology transfer
- Develop joint solutions for clean energy challenges
- Unlock new business opportunities
- Engage the broader public in shaping a sustainable energy future
Program Framework
The project is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE). The initial program duration is two years, with each year dedicated to a specific CleanTech focus area. This structure allows for in-depth exchange and targeted implementation of sustainable energy solutions.
🧩 The Program
Module
Each year consists of several program modules designed to foster transatlantic exchange and collaboration. These include:
Masterclasses providing in-depth knowledge and best practice examples from both Germany and the US
Innovation Circles bringing together experts, policymakers, companies, and researchers to jointly address challenges and develop solutions
Clean Ambassador Delegation Trips to both Germany and the Southeastern US enabling hands-on site visits, expert roundtables, and direct exchange between communities, researchers, companies, and policy leaders
Startup Exchanges supporting early-stage companies from Germany and the US in building international partnerships and market access
Target Groups
Companies
Startups
Cluster
Government organizations
NGOs
Research institutions
Universities
Investors
Outlook
Year 1: Clean Tech Applied Research, Innovative Business Models, and Community Projects with a Focus on Island Solutions
Year 2: Smart Appliances Implementation, Adaptability, and Cybersecurity in the Context of a Digital Energy Transition
Overview - Year 1
Activities, Dates & Topics
Overview - Year 2
Aktivitäten, Termine & Themen
Ambassador Trips
Dates
Are you working on solutions for the future?
Then become part of our network and contribute your perspective to the transatlantic CleanTech dialogue.