Good news in difficult times is always especially welcome. 2008 was a year of successes for the VDE, and our focus on innovation, the support of young talents, norms and consumer protection was particularly relevant. Above all, innovations help cushion the impact of economic crises and open up opportunities to enhance a reputation and stimulate business with new products and services.

Our association is working toward these goals on many different levels. At the German government’s IT summit, the VDE strongly supported expanding the country’s broadband infrastructure and called for pushing communications technology as the integrating factor of networks, devices and services. The concerted pursuit of energy efficiency and Ambient Assisted Living – intelligent assisting systems for favorably priced and effective solutions in the sector of healthcare and nursing – also have enormous potential. An energy-efficiency stimulus program focused on memory technologies, improved ICT, network upgrades, as well as the use of more efficient electrical products and systems could make a significant contribution toward CO² abatement.

With the increasing complexity of technologies and accelerating globalization, demands for interoperability and safety are also continuing to grow. In response to these needs, the VDE is driving international norms and is taking the lead in many responsible bodies. The VDE is also strengthening its activities on behalf of consumer protection by expanding its testing facilities in Offenbach, extending its testing services in Asia, and working more closely with political communities. In order to further intensify contacts with politicians on the EU level, the VDE opened a Representative Office in Brussels, where the path is increasingly being set in regard to supporting technologies and ensuring consumer protection. We will push for a stronger focus on safety standards and consumer protection Europe-wide. Our numerous studies, expertises and position papers on safety issues, energy, communication and medical technologies provide an objective and respected basis for public and political deliberations.