Germany

Show more

Show more

Ahead of the opening of Expo 2017 Astana, the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) asked Dietmar Schmitz, the National Commissioner of the Pavilion of Germany, about the country’s participation.

Germany is one of the leading countries in the development of advanced technologies in the field of renewable energy. How will the Expo 2017 theme "Future Energy" be interpreted in your pavilion?

D. Schmitz: Our pavilion puts the Energiewende (energy transition) “Made in Germany” at the centre, focusing on expansion of renewables and increase in energy efficiency. We will present what is already possible today with innovative technologies and processes, for example in solar energy, wind power, geothermal and hydro power. We have interactive exhibits and current examples from Germany to show the impact of changing to renewables on everyday life, from smart homes to mobility.

We will also take a look at the energy supplies of the future, and present ways of moving forward in areas such as smart networking and energy storage.

What does Germany want to showcase at Expo 2017 Astana?

D. Schmitz: The German Pavilion will present an attractive mix of entertainment and information, showcasing Germany’s skills and expertise in solutions to ensure future energy supplies for our planet. We will address both the experts and the general public, including families and children of all ages.

The narrative of our exhibition is based on the idea of zooming in – from the global perspective to the bird’s eye view to the local approach, down to the individual human being and his or her energy. A major aspect of our pavilion is that we actively involve visitors. All the exhibits invite them to touch and try out.

The emotional highlight of the pavilion is the Energy Show, which focuses on the main drivers of the energy transition – human beings. The setting is a twelve-sided room where visitors get together to activate a spectacular laser show with amazing images. This shared experience stands for the power of the individual in cooperation with other individuals, and is intended to whet people’s appetites for a new energy era.

What image of Germany do you wish to leave in the minds of visitors?

D. Schmitz: We want to present Germany at the Expo as a competent and reliable partner for future energy supply, playing an important part in know-how transfer, as one of the leading industrial nations. Apart from that it is our goal to present Germany at Expo 2017 Astana as a welcoming, attractive and hospitable country. That naturally includes the German restaurant with typical regional dishes and an attractive cultural programme. We would also hope that our presentation of the states of Germany and their numerous tourist attractions will arouse people’s interest in Germany, making them curious to find out more about our country.

Show more