EDITORIAL

Frank Stührenberg , CEO Phoenix Contact

Dear readers , The new decade has begun with disruptions and changes in such a unique way that we could never have imagined before . Crises cost and place burdens on victims , but they can also be opportunities . From this perspective , we can consider the corona-driven boost for digitalization as a dynamic in the right direction : Forward , into the future . Taking on challenges actively is a part of the entrepreneurial spirit . We are convinced that innovative technologies create the greatest scope for solving the challenges that lie ahead : Beyond the pandemic , we want to find solutions for climate change and the growth of the world population . Comprehensive electrification , complete networking , and intelligent automation are the key to the future for us .

In an interview , CTO Roland Bent conveys a spirit of optimism and goes on to explain our mission statement for the All Electric Society . Read about how this is not utopian , but technologically attainable , starting on page 8 .

From the generation of electrical energy and its transmission through to its targeted , smart , and sometimes even very rapid use ; this issue will guide you through a number articles worth reading .

And Dr . Gunther Kegel , CEO of Pepperl + Fuchs and presidentelect of the ZVEI Electrical Engineering and Electronics Industry Association , states that climate protection does not mean cutting back on consumption . He clearly defines the responsibilities of businesses and politicians and adds color to the image of the future . You can read exactly how in an interview starting on page 60 .

Join us as we look ahead to our strategy that casts electrification in a leading role . This appears to bring the founding of Phoenix Contact – founded in exactly the same decade in the 20th Century – full circle : Electrification and networking are in our DNA and will always remain so .

The Phoenix Contact innovation magazine UPDATE 6 / 20 3