Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
Today is a special occasion for me as we celebrate together. Five years ago, I introduced the New European Bauhaus for the 21st century, aiming to create beautiful, sustainable, and inclusive living spaces that foster community. Today, thanks to your efforts, the European Commissions first building based on New European Bauhaus principles is set to be constructed. What a remarkable journey!
The new headquarters for the Joint Research Centre in Seville embodies the New European Bauhaus values. Its design beautifully merges traditional Andalucían styles with a modern vision. Additionally, it is sustainable; featuring solar panels, it will be our first net-zero emissions building, producing more energy than it consumes and feeding excess back into the grid. In just 18 years, it will save the same amount of carbon used for its construction, demonstrating the innovative thinking necessary for a climate-neutral Europe. Lastly, it is inclusive, welcoming the entire community to enjoy its pergolas and open spaces.
Dear friends,
Good things take time, and the new JRC headquarters is no exception. I bring the original birth certificate of the New European Bauhaus, launched during my 2020 State of the Union speech. Today, I will leave a signed copy for Ekaterina Zaharieva.
Remember, in 2020, the New European Bauhaus was just an idea—a vision. Now, there are nearly 700 projects across Europe, supported by over 1,900 partners and EUR 740 million in funding. It is historic to witness this vision taking shape here in Seville for the first time.
Thank you, JRC, and thank you, Seville. I am grateful that you are the first to host a climate-neutral building of the New European Bauhaus. Let us celebrate this moment.