Power insider

Energy security and sustainable development have moved up the global agenda. There are two main reasons for this; first, the impact of high and volatile energy prices; second, concerns over environmental sustainability & particularly about the global climate. Both issues are critically important for Asia and the Pacific-a region in which impressive economic growth has boosted the demand for energy and put huge strains on the surrounding environment.

To pursue energy security, the countries of the region will want to ensure that energy supplies are available, sufficient, affordable and sustainable.
At the same time they will need to consider the ecological and social implications. Throughout the region a staggering 1.7 Billion people still rely heavily on Biomass for cooking and heating, but shockingly, almost 1 Billion people still have no access to electricity.

Governments throughout the region are exploring new opportunities from coal and gas to renewable and nuclear to encourage more inward investment from international companies. Over $344 Billion is required over the next 7 years if Asia is to reach its demand for energy at current rates, but with industry growth and population growth, these figures are seen as relatively reserved.