Summary report, 11–12 June 2017

The Energy Ministerial Conference and Eighth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development were held in Astana, Kazakhstan from 11-14 June 2017. The Forum was held against the backdrop of EXPO 2017 “Future Energy”, taking place from 10 June to 10 September 2017 in Astana. The annual Forum, organized by the five UN Regional Commissions since 2010, provides the opportunity to explore how the UN system can help countries and the business sector to achieve the objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The objective of the Eighth Forum was to enhance the understanding of sustainable energy and possible policy drivers to achieve a common goal on sustainable energy, promote policy dialogue and provide awareness-raising of different outcomes. It aimed to explore how the UN system can help implement or pursue sustainable agendas within the regional context. The Forum opened with an Energy Ministerial Conference on “Meeting the Challenge of Sustainable Energy,” on 11 June.

The Energy Ministerial included ministerial dialogues on: meeting the challenge of sustainable energy; energy security, regional trade and infrastructure; the energy-climate-food nexus; renewable energy in Central Asia; and promoting new technologies and innovations. At the end of the Ministerial Conference, the participating ministers adopted the Ministerial Declaration, containing seven voluntary actions that outline ways to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy system, from establishing national sustainable energy action plans, developing internationally recognized minimum energy performance standards in all sectors, and advancing methods for public data collection and indicators on energy for sustainable development.

The Forum continued on 12 June with a series of “hard talks” on the energy transition for sustainable development and the interplay between renewable energy and fossil fuels. In the afternoon, the Forum included four discussion sessions, three roundtables, and one panel discussion, which focused on: the findings of the UNECE Renewable Energy Status Report 2017; energy efficiency in buildings; the role of gas in achieving sustainable development; the regional technology and investment center; the socio-economic benefits of renewable energy; aligning renewable energy and energy efficiency policies; coal mine methane as an under-valued energy source and the role it can play in transition of the coal industry; and the Global Tracking Framework Regional Reports.

This report provides a summary of the Ministerial Conference on 11 June and a selection of the events held on 12 June.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE INTERNATIONAL FORUM ON ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development has been held annually since 2010, organized by the five UN Regional Commissions to provide the opportunity to explore how the UN system can help countries and the business sector to implement or pursue sustainable agendas in the energy sector.

The first four forums took place: in Astana, Kazakhstan, on 28-30 September 2010; in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on 12-14 September 2011; at the Issyk Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan, on 12-14 September 2012; and in Tbilisi, Georgia, on 17-19 September 2013. The First Forum was held in parallel with the sixth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Development for Asia and the Pacific.

At the Fifth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development in Hammamet, Tunisia, on 4-7 November 2014, the Executive Secretaries of the five UN Regional Commissions signed the joint statement, the Hammamet Declaration, affirming that the objectives of energy sustainability are attainable if the world embarks on a determined, collective effort. This joint statement has since been referred to as the Hammamet Declaration.

The Sixth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development, held in Yerevan, Armenia, on 29 September to 2 October 2015, considered practical ways to implement the Hammamet Declaration and to attain the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Initiative objectives of, by 2030, ensuring universal access to modern energy, doubling the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency, and doubling the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. The Forum adopted the Yerevan Statement of Common Action to initiate implementation of the provisions of the Hammamet Declaration.

The Seventh International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development  was held in  Baku, Azerbaijan, on 18-21 October 2016. The Forum  also included an  International Renewable Energy Conference and the annual sessions of the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)  Group of Experts on Renewable Energy,  and  the Group of Experts on Energy Efficiency for the first time. The objective of the Forum was to explore how to deliver on the national commitments in support of achieving the climate change mitigation and adaptation goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. These potential solutions will form the basis of the Energy Ministerial discussions at the outset of the Eighth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development, as a major stepping stone in the history of this international forum process.

REPORT OF THE MEETING

ENERGY MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE

OPENING CEREMONY AND SPECIAL ADDRESSES

The Energy Ministerial Conference on “Meeting the Challenge of Sustainable Energy,” opened on 11 June. The opening ceremony was chaired by Timur Kulibayev, Chairman, KAZENERGY Association. Noting the important role of energy in the quality of life, he lamented the Kazakh reliance on fossil fuels, and said the country has prioritized a transition to renewable and clean forms of energy, particularly in the long term.

Bakhytzhan Sagintayev, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, welcomed all participants and thanked the supporters of the conference. He described Kazakhstan’s strategy on sustainable development, highlighting that Kazakhstan is committed to the Paris Agreement. He noted that there is immense potential nationally and globally for growth in GDP and employment through growing the green economy, and expressed hope that the Ministerial Conference with its outcome Declaration would further promote long-term cooperation of all sustainable energy stakeholders.

Shamshad Akhtar, Executive Secretary, UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), highlighted that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, together with market, infrastructure and technology advancements, have great potential to shape a future powered by clean, sustainable energy; and urged addressing the many challenges of the renewable energy transition. She applauded recent technological advances and, stressing the role of cross-border cooperation in the energy sector, called for harmonizing legal frameworks that enable connection across international borders.

Olga Algayerova, Executive Secretary, UNECE, highlighted the gaps between current actions and current commitments on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement, and between current commitments and what is truly needed to achieve the agreed objectives. She noted the need to use “all available tools” and reminded that urgent action is needed. She acknowledged that national circumstances vary significantly, but stressed that countries’ approaches should share common elements, including: the ultimate objective to enhance quality of life; a carbon price; and understanding that security does not mean self-sufficiency. She called for reinventing energy as a services industry, rather than a commodities industry and reminded of the importance of innovation and flexibility to move forward.

Cihan Sultanoğlu, UN Development Programme (UNDP), Assistant Administrator and Director of the Regional Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (RBEC), and UN Commissioner-General for EXPO 2017, identified “a unique era” at present where a major effort is being made to put the world on a new development path through the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement. She highlighted energy production as enablers of these agreements in the form of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 (energy), since energy production currently contributes to two-thirds of the world’s greenhouse gases (GHGs).

The session concluded with a video presentation on renewable energy developments globally and in Kazakhstan.

MINISTERIAL DIALOGUES

MEETING THE CHALLENGE OF SUSTAINABLE ENERGY: Li Yong, Director General, UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDIO) chaired this session.

Maroš Šefčovič, Vice-President for Energy Union, European Commission, described the increasing energy cooperation between the European Union (EU) and Kazakhstan, noting the importance of the EU’s eastern neighboring countries in the energy transition and in future energy security. He stressed the importance of inclusive partnerships between countries and the energy industry in the stocktaking process under the Paris Agreement, and supported the ministerial statement. Lamenting the US decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, he said the EU remains “absolutely committed,” and that the world can count on the EU for global leadership in a sustainable energy transition. He discussed progress made by the EU in successfully decoupling economic growth from GHG emissions, stating that “what is good for the climate is also good for growth, jobs and business,” and described further plans for the EU energy transition.

Kanat Bozumbayev, Minister of Energy, Kazakhstan, highlighted that the main objectives of the Ministerial Dialogues are to provide better insight into current global processes, investigate the role and place of traditional energy in the world’s future energy system, and share political incentives to implement national strategies. He identified several of Kazakhstan’s contributions to realizing SDG 7, such as the fact that Kazakhstan has embraced the transition to a green economy.

Alexander Novak, Minister of Energy, Russian Federation, highlighted the challenge of providing secure, clean and affordable energy supply. He noted positive trends, including: robust development of new energy technologies; the growing use of gas; the revolutionary role of technology; accessibility of infrastructure; and affordability of financing. He described “alarming” trends, including artificial barriers to free trade and non-market limitations and preferences, and underlined Russia’s role as a reliable supplier of resources for the global economy.

Khalid Al-Falih, Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources, Saudi Arabia, identified four principles when considering renewable energy developments, including inclusiveness of access to all energy sources, flexibility, affordability for all, and innovative technology development. Saying “there is no switch we can turn on,” he highlighted some challenges of the required ongoing transformation, including: the small base and scale from which new developments start; rapid urbanization rates, population growth and demographics; and the slow pace of the transformation.

Rachel Kyte, Chief Executive Officer, SEforALL, noted the importance of long-term goals for allowing policymakers to withstand political fluctuations and the private sector to understand the direction of travel. She highlighted steps needed to move “at speed and scale”, including: clear price signals; managing subsidies to avoid perversity; maximizing energy productivity; closing the energy access gap; and creating a level playing field for renewable energy alongside other energy sources. She emphasized that the energy systems of the future will be decarbonized, decentralized and digitalized.

ENERGY SECURITY, REGIONAL TRADE AND INFRASTRUCTURE: Kairat Abdrakhmanov, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kazakhstan, chaired this session.

Lamberto Zannier, Secretary General, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), delivered the keynote, saying “we are in the midst of an energy transition whether we want it or not.” He noted current opportunities regarding energy, including the renewable energy boom, technological breakthroughs in areas including battery storage, and decreased costs in energy connectivity. He outlined OSCE contributions to a more conducive framework for enhancing energy security regarding cybersecurity, good economic governance, and fostering regional cooperation. He emphasized that the future of energy security relies on effective cooperation.

Urban Rusnák, Secretary General, Energy Charter Secretariat, outlined the Energy Charter Treaty, the Energy Charter Declaration and work done by the Energy Charter Secretariat to strengthen energy security. He stressed the need for effective cooperation to achieve energy security, and described progress regarding global interest in the Energy Charter process.

Mihály Varga, Minister for National Economy, Hungary, provided information about Hungary’s economy and its energy sector. He highlighted the importance to Hungary of energy security and diversification of sources, including renewable energy alongside fossil and nuclear sources. Regarding natural gas, he said Hungary is investigating all possibilities to ensure stability of supply in the long term.

Ali Ahmad Osmani, Minister of Water and Energy, Afghanistan, explained that energy trade between Central and South Asia is increasing due to rapid economic growth and increase in energy demand. He discussed challenges and lessons learned in the Afghanistan context, and highlighted the potential of transborder connectivity opportunities. 

Vadim Zakrevsky, Deputy Minister of Energy, Belarus, discussed energy security and independence in the Belarus context. He explained the main elements of the Belarus energy framework, including diversification of energy resources, energy independence, energy efficiency, economic accessibility and integration into the world energy supply market.

Natiq Abbasov, Deputy Minister of Energy, Azerbaijan, spoke about his country’s situation regarding energy security, regional trade and renewable energy. Noting that Azerbaijan has always been an energy producing country, he described the Caspian field and pipeline arrangements and outlined large-scale projects in progress.

ENERGY-CLIMATE-FOOD NEXUS: TOWARDS A CIRCULAR ECONOMY: Scott Foster, Director, Sustainable Energy Division, UNECE, chaired this session.

In a keynote speech, Graeme Maxton, Secretary General, Club of Rome, outlined the challenges of climate change, and associated societal impacts and financial costs. He said climate change is a symptom of the bigger problem of the economic system, and explained the potential of the circular economy as an alternative economic system. In response to a question about whether the 1.5°C target can be achieved, he said that countries need to work together to address this target.

Maximus Johnity Ongkili, Minister of Energy, Green Technology and Water, Malaysia, shared commitments, initiatives and policies from his country. On interlinkages, he highlighted that water is used in energy production, and that water is also essential for food security. He stressed several proposals regarding the circular economy, including: the need to create green banks to provide finance; the development of curricula and research centers in universities; investment in nexus infrastructure, incentives and subsidies across the three sectors; and the need for robust data.

Regilio Dodson, Minister of Natural Resources, Suriname, outlined his country’s vulnerabilities to the effects of climate change and called upon the world to act on climate. He also supported the concept of the circular economy, and noted the need for buy-in by multiple stakeholder groups at all levels of society.

Ilia Eloshvili, Deputy Minister of Energy, Georgia, addressed issues of energy supply and demand, noting that demand will inevitably grow, which is “right and fair” due to the natural desire of the country to develop. On supply, he opined that fossil fuel producing countries will not cease production, because of their motivation to economically develop their country.

Seyed Jalaledin Alavi Sabzevari, Deputy Secretary-General, Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), outlined the impacts of climate change faced by ECO member states. He stressed the need for partnerships between countries, and UN agencies and other international organizations, and noted that the SDGs offer an opportunity to address problems holistically.

Subsequent questions and discussion related to: the potential and risks of hydroelectricity; investment in renewable energy; policy mechanisms to incentivize leaving fossil fuels in the ground; energy efficiency; awareness-raising; and regional cooperation in the Caribbean.

RENEWABLE ENERGY IN CENTRAL ASIA: Sakari Oksanen, Deputy Director-General, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), chaired the session, and urged Central Asian countries to aim for ambitious targets to increase renewable energy uptake, since they possess large potential renewable energy sources.

Mohamed El-Farnawany, Director, Strategic Management and Executive Direction, IRENA, described the regional consultative process initiated by IRENA to discuss the challenges and opportunities of unlocking renewable energy potential, and to identify areas for priority action in addressing them. He said this will lead to the elaboration of a regional Action Plan for guiding IRENA’s future support.

Kanat Bozumbayev elaborated on the renewable energy transition in Kazakhstan including plans to: deploy renewable energy throughout the country, while considering unique geographic features; have a 50% share of renewable energy sources in the total power generation mix by 2030; and promote energy efficiency throughout the energy chain.

Sulton Rakhimzoda, First Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Tajikistan, noted his country’s potential for solar energy development compared to other Central Asian countries, but lamented current limited development due to lack of investment. He highlighted a new law regulating the renewable energy sector in Tajikistan.

Nurali Yusifbayli, Deputy Chairman, State Agency on Alternative and Renewable Energy Sources, Azerbaijan, said by 2020, 20% of electricity consumption of Azerbaijan must be from renewable sources, noting that in 2016, this figure was 9.7%, thus saving almost 1 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. He said Azerbaijan has great potential for developing all renewable energy sources.

Azamat Omorov, Deputy Chairman, State Committee of Industry, Energy and Subsoil Use, Kyrgyzstan, said that although there has been great progress in renewable energy development, the country can increase this substantially, including through hydropower. He called for general awareness on saving energy and greater innovation in his country.

Aida Sitdikova, on behalf of the Managing Director, Energy and Natural Resources, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, described opportunities in Central Asia to reduce the carbon footprint and GHGs through renewable energy, and said, given the potential for renewables, developing a robust legal framework is essential.

Arthouros Zervos, Chair, Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21), citing the Global Renewable Energy Status Report, said installed capacity has increased by 9 % in 2016 but investments reduced by 23% compared to the previous year. He suggested the energy transition pace is too slow to meet the Paris Agreement objectives, and said the world needs to increase investments in renewable energy, while eliminating fossil fuel subsidies, which continue to slow down progress in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

PROMOTING NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND INNOVATIONS: This session was chaired by Cihan Sultanoğlu. Paul Simons, Deputy Executive Director, International Energy Agency, in a keynote address, reported on progress in energy technologies that reduce carbon emissions, saying the energy sector remains key to sustainable economic growth in a world where 1.2 billion people lack access to electricity and 2.7 billion lack access to clean cooking.

On progress in individual countries and sectors, Simons noted an immediate need to implement integrated systems approach considering all technology options, in order to accelerate progress. He underlined that achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 would require unprecedented technology-enhancing policies and investments.

Sergiy Savchuk, Head of the State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving, Ukraine, presented on his country’s energy efficiency and renewable energy development plans, highlighting progress made in reducing gas consumption, and building retrofits. He provided examples of successful renewable projects, including: a boiler station providing hot water to four municipalities; the Botievska wind power station and wind power turbines; and recycling 100% of chicken manure to generate power.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer, Masdar, described investments in renewable energy projects of US$3 billion in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), saying without new technology, their power generation and large-scale storage capabilities cannot be improved. He showed the impact of renewable energy on the people of the UAE, stressing that “people are our most important asset.”

Kairat Kelimbetov, Governor, Astana International Finance Center, recalled recent events in the oil industry which negatively impacted oil-producing countries, saying traditional views on fossil fuels have changed dramatically, creating opportunities to transition to clean and renewable energy sources. He described Kazakhstan’s urge to become a renewable energy sector pioneer in Asia, and emphasized the role of dialogue with other countries, companies and finance mechanisms.

József Tóth, President, World Petroleum Council, said the petroleum industry prioritizes new technology and innovation to improve productivity and efficiency, since oil will remain part of the energy mix, depending on different country contexts. He identified nano- and biotechnology, and sustainable chemical solutions, as possible candidates in innovation, and emphasized the role of international cooperation and strategic alliances with national companies to unlock the potential.

Barry Worthington, Executive Director, US Energy Association, noted that although technology development is important initially, it should be followed by large-scale deployment of these technologies. Describing the scale of renewables in the US as insignificant compared to petroleum, he warned that at current scale, the transformation in the electricity and transport sectors will be too slow. Worthington called for carbon capture and storage innovations, and prioritizing energy efficiency, since “coal will still be with us for some time.”

During an award ceremony over lunch, the winners of the ‘Youth – Future Energy’ art competition were announced, and the art exhibition was officially opened.

INSIGHTS FROM THE MINISTERIAL DIALOGUES

This session was chaired by Benoît Revaz, State Secretary, Federal Office of Energy, Switzerland, who invited the chairs of the Ministerial Dialogues to provide insights from their respective dialogues.

On energy security, regional trade and infrastructure, Li Yong called for reduced carbon-intensive developments, coherent policies for the medium and long term stimulated by market dynamics, greater investment in research and development, and greater efforts for inclusive and flexible approaches suitable to countries’ diversity.

Scott Foster reported on the ministerial dialogue on the energy-food nexus. He highlighted the need for, inter alia: good data; the acceleration of subsidies removal; effective technology transfer, assistance and investment; and an engaged conversation with all parts of society.

Yerzhan Ashikbayev emphasized that the main message from his session was centered on international partnerships and creating win-win solutions for the different challenges, having rules-based cooperation, and the pivotal role of energy security in achieving the SDGs by 2030.

Sakari Oksanen identified opportunities and challenges facing Central Asian countries in their uptake of renewable energy, and outlined the efforts of IRENA and other regional partners in supporting those countries to meet national and international goals.

Cihan Sultanoğlu reported on progress made in new technologies, noting that most innovations are not on track and need to be accelerated using integration of systems, and that achieving carbon neutrality would require unprecedented innovation.

CEREMONY – ADOPTING THE MINISTERIAL DECLARATION

The final session of the day was chaired by Kanat Bozumbayev. He presented the ministerial declaration, which contains seven voluntary actions outlining ways to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy system, including establishing national sustainable energy action plans, developing internationally recognized minimum energy performance standards in all sectors, and advancing methods for public data collection and indicators on energy for sustainable development.

Shamshad Akhtar noted the challenge of making sure the discussions at this Ministerial Conference lead to change on the ground. She called for redoubling of efforts to transition to sustainable energy. She emphasized the need for, inter alia, long-term policy commitments to provide incentives, reduce risk and encourage renewable energy projects at small, medium and large scales.

Olga Algayerova, Executive Secretary, UNECE, welcoming the implementation of the voluntary actions put forward by ministers, urged further support and progress from the regional commissions, and suggested energy ministers convene regularly in future to assess progress on energy targets.

Heads of delegations were invited to adopt the joint declaration. The Declaration was adopted, and heads of delegations were invited to make statements.

Nataliya Boyko, Deputy Minister of Energy, Ukraine, noting that implementation of SDG 7 remains important to her country, committed to forging deeper relations with other partners and achieving an 11% renewable energy mix by 2020 for the Ukraine. She welcomed the Declaration, and announced the intention of Ukraine to host the next ministerial conference in 2018.

Jiří Koliba, Vice Minister for Industry and Trade, Czech Republic, expressed support for the ministerial statement and highlighted the need to decrease GHG emissions.

Bozumbayev closed the Ministerial Conference at 5:46 pm, which was followed by a gala reception, hosted by the Government of Kazakhstan.

EIGHTH INTERNATIONAL FORUM ON ENERGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

HARD TALKS ON “SUSTAINABLE ENERGY OF THE 21ST CENTURY – GOVERNMENT MEETS INDUSTRY”

On Monday morning, 12 June, Roula Majdalani, Director, Sustainable Development Policies Division, UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), chaired the opening session. She underscored the collective effort of the regional commissions in hosting the International Energy for Sustainable Development Forum and ensuring the regional dimension is captured in international debates.

Shamshad Akhtar focused on the Asia-Pacific region’s achievements in transitioning to a green and low-carbon economy and putting development on a sustainable trajectory. She stressed the impact of Western Asia, which consumes half of the world’s energy resources while also contributing almost half of global renewable energy, and urged regional cooperation to share the technological expertise needed to fast-track the transition.

Olga Algayerova, urging improving energy efficiency quicker and redesigning renewable energy policies, said “there is much work to be done to move from words to immediate action – the world sits at ten past midnight!”

Cihan Sultanoğlu noted that addressing the barriers to sustainable development creates enormous potential for new developments, employment opportunities, and advancing the lives of women and children. She pledged UNDP’s support for integrated approaches and called for innovative and inclusive business models, smart use of public finances through enhancing capacities, and adopting enabling policies and regulatory frameworks.

ENERGY TRANSITION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: Kaveh Zahedi, Deputy Executive Secretary for Sustainable Development, ESCAP, moderated the session.

Vivien Foster, Global Lead, World Bank, addressed global and regional trends affecting sustainable energy initiatives, saying these are not on track to meet any of the energy targets. Illustrating progress in the form of “clock dials,” she showed that progress falls short of what is needed to meet the 2030 targets on access to electricity, access to clean cooking, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. 

Henning Wuester, Director, Knowledge Policy and Finance Center, IRENA, cited an IRENA study that shows that the energy sector’s objectives can be met by mid-century if investments in renewables are scaled up three times, and said introducing private electric vehicles at scale could revolutionize economies.

On the capacity challenges and significantly engaging the private sector, Marcel Alers, Head of Energy, UNDP, said increasing energy sources contributes to increasing complexity in grid management, while most utilities still operate along traditional lines. He called for changing from centralized power distribution to decentralized smart grids, and investing in education at all levels to build capacity for handling the complexity.

On resistance from power utilities, Mohammed El-Khayat, Vice-Chairman, New and Renewable Energy Authority, Egypt, lauded substantial transformation in his country, and noted the drop in renewable energy costs with improvement in technology.

Ram Prasad Dhital, Executive Director, Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, Nepal, lamented that remote areas lack attention from the central government, noting challenges to increasing access including high initial investment costs, fragmented policies, heavy subsidy dependence, low maintenance of infrastructure, and a dearth of innovative business models.

On the Ukraine renewable energy experience, Sergiy Savchuk related many difficulties in oil and natural gas supply following the recent political crisis, after which the government committed to reducing the country’s natural gas dependence through reducing gas consumption by 9% from current levels by 2020.

On energy security, Ralf Ernst, Deputy Coordinator and Head, Environmental Activities, OSCE, said this requires a comprehensive approach across different sectors, including the environment. Referring to the links with climate change impacts on water management, he emphasized reducing emissions as an objective; and identified new and emerging risks from the energy transition.

INTERPLAY BETWEEN RENEWABLE ENERGY AND FOSSIL FUELS: Radia Sedaoui, Chief of Section, Sustainable Energy, ESCWA, chaired the session. She invited the members of the panel to a dialogue on the interplay between renewable energy and natural gas by addressing synergies and partnership from technology, policies and best practices.

Malek Kabariti, Former Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Jordan, while noting that increasing the share of renewable energy offers a potential pathway toward decarbonization of the energy system and meeting most energy needs, highlighted the need to be much more realistic about the timeframe. He described natural gas as a “good technology partner” in this respect, and urged cooperation between the two sectors.

Barry Worthington described the “miraculous revolution” in the US natural gas industry. He stated that the US anticipates using fossil fuels, including oil and coal, for “a very long time”, and indicated that during coming years population is expected to rise, which calls for diversifying energy sources to include more renewable energy and natural gas. Worthington urged the development and deployment of carbon capture and storage.

Vyacheslav Mischenko, Head of Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Office, Argus Media, Kazakhstan, emphasized the role of price levels in determining the development of new technology, renewable energy projects, and fossil fuel projects. He stressed uncertainty regarding oil price stabilization.

Igor Kozhukhovsky, Deputy General Director, Russian Energy Agency, described Russian energy policy as geared towards supply to the domestic market and to the country’s partners. He explained the developing trend towards natural gas, as well as reforms to make the Russian electricity sector fully competitive. Citing an example of a hybrid system in the power generation sector between natural gas and renewables, he urged nurturing such synergies and partnerships.

Hamid Sherwali, Chairperson of the Executive Board of Renewable Energies, Renewable Energy Authority, Libya, noted the high potential for renewable energy development in Libya, and discussed the large increase of the natural gas share in the power generation mix. He explained that fossil fuels will be phased out and that Libya needs to learn from best practices on the way to increase the penetration of renewable energy, thus leaving the natural gas industry unharmed.

Matthew Sagers, Managing Director, IHS Energy, US, discussed Kazakhstan’s National Energy Report and the nationally determined contributions. He explained energy efficiency, reduction in coal consumption and a corresponding increase in natural gas, and an increase in renewable energy as three interrelated elements which must all be present.

Torstein Indrebø, Honorary Secretary General, International Gas Union, emphasized that natural gas is a reliable source of energy which can be stored close to the market, and is therefore a necessary supplement to renewable energy that is much cleaner than oil or coal.

Mostefa Ouki, Vice President Energy & Chemicals, Nexant, UK, stated that natural gas is a backup fuel to renewable energy, and stressed the need for dialogue between the fossil fuel industry, the renewable energy industry and financial institutions.

Aida Sitdikova noted that although natural gas is a transitional or backup fuel, it is necessary to factor in its externalities as it still has half the carbon intensity of coal. She noted the potential of storage technology to contribute to solving renewable energy’s intermittency issues.

THE REGIONAL TECHNOLOGY AND INVESTMENT CENTER: Gani Sadibekov, Vice-Minister of Energy, Kazakhstan, delivering welcome remarks, emphasized the important role of regional centers of excellence, and said the creation of the Astana Center represents a historic moment in the renewable and green clean energy trajectory. He underscored green economy as one of the most important aspects of Kazakh development.

Sanjar Kettebekov, General Director, Almaty Tech Garden, sharing his experience on green financing, described the special economic zone in Almaty comprising innovative business hubs. On energy and industry efficiency, he reported on a plan to digitize 10 plants by 2020, with four pilots already underway, and announced a recent agreement to have a representative office in Silicon Valley.

Jacek Skiba, International Centre of Excellence on Coal Mine Methane (ICE-CMM), Poland, provided highlights from the recently established center and the process leading to its establishment. He outlined major goals, including: to solicit and collect case studies and best practices in CMM, and to conduct research. On the benefits of cooperating with the UN, he highlighted access to experts, worldwide visibility of work undertaken and resulting accomplishments, and cooperation with various institutions and governments.

On energy security, Daniel Kroos, OSCE, identified the success factors when establishing a center, including: finding the right people; defining the right products and services that are realistic for implementation; and finding strong partners and institutions. On steps to build effective and enduring partnerships, he suggested definition of goals, identification of areas for cooperation and potential synergies, and definition of a cooperation model.

Providing an overview of the ESCWA region and its Technology Center, Roula Majdalani said the region faces three distinct major challenges: job creation, acquiring scientific technological capabilities, and benchmarking and mainstreaming science and technology development.

On how to allocate capital more efficiently, John O’Brien, UNDP Regional Hub for Europe and CIS, Istanbul, outlined the de-risking approach through removing barriers to access, efficiency and renewables. He cited three UNDP case studies, including a small hydropower station in Georgia, energy management information systems in Croatia, and introducing minimum energy efficiency standards for lighting in the Russian Federation.

Astrid Schneider, Austrian Institute of Technology, outlined the goals needed to advance the green innovation cycle, including: a strong vision; updating the legal framework; research and technological policies and budgets; and participation and publication.

Natalia Alexeeva, Head, Central Asia Office, UNEP, shared the experiences of the International Environmental Technology Centre in Japan in demonstrating study results through pilots, providing technological support and capacity building, and establishing the Secretariat of the Global Partnership for Waste Management.

THE ROLE OF GAS IN ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS: This session was moderated by Torstein Indrebø.

Rafael Huarte, Director, International Gas Union, described gas as a “destination energy” rather than a transition energy, explaining that it will be the main fossil fuel used in the future. He stated that gas is the “best partner” for renewables due to its flexibility, and low capital investment and maintenance requirements, and is also a good solution for transport in large cities as it does not produce particulate matter.

Nazir Ramazanov, Chair, UNECE Group of Experts on Renewable Energy, stated that renewable energy is “the energy of today and of the future,” because although once unpredictable and expensive, prices are decreasing every year. However, he acknowledged that natural gas is needed as a more reliable energy source.

Nikita Lomagin, Vice-Rector for Development, European University at St Petersburg, presented a historical view on natural gas including its development as a solution for energy diversification after the first collapse in oil prices during the 1970s. He stated that natural gas still mainly benefits rich and prosperous states, rather than contributing to solutions to energy poverty, and called for good governance to attract finance for gas projects.

Alan Lau, Managing Director, Anglo Euro Developers Ltd, spoke about the unrealized potential of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for small-scale distribution to small communities such as islands and inland villages. He discussed technology developments in Floating Storage Regasification Units which enable marine transfer of LNG. He described the fast-growing Asian demand for natural gas, and opined that coal is still “king” in South Asian countries.

Branko Milicevic, UNECE, identified gas as an “enabler” which affects all 17 SDGs. He described the renewable energy goal of 36% of total energy supply by 2030 as very difficult to meet, and stated that “in all likelihood it will not be met.” He called for raising awareness of natural gas, and stated “there is always a future for fossil fuels – there is no way around it.”

COAL MINE METHANE (CMM) AS AN UNDER-VALUED ENERGY SOURCE AND THE ROLE IT CAN PLAY IN THE TRANSITION OF THE COAL INDUSTRY: Raymond Pilcher, Chair of UNECE Group of Experts on CMM, chaired this session.

Richard Mattus, UN Group of Experts on Coal Mine Methane, described methane as a very powerful GHG with a short atmospheric lifetime, implying major source reduction will cause rapid and positive results. He stated that reducing CMM emissions is a very cost-effective way to reduce GHG emissions.

Sergazy Baimuhametov, Vice-Chair, UNECE Group of Experts on CMM, spoke about the economic aspects of reducing CMM from the perspective of Kazakhstan. He discussed problems regarding financial feasibility of CMM projects and lack of financial incentives.

Łukasz Kroplewski, Vice-President of the PGNiG Management Board, Development, stated that in Poland, there is sufficient economic case for CMM projects. He explained that an additional incentive for CMM projects is to reduce exploration and extraction hazards to coal miners.

Evgeny Alexeyev, Deputy Director, Methane Center PA, Kazakhstan, spoke about the Czech experience of CMM and the potential in Kazakhstan for better CMM utilization, lamenting lack of CMM project financing.

Jacek Skiba reported on the restructuring of coal mines in Poland. He stated that currently 23 out of 25 coal mines operating in Poland are recognized as “gassy”, meaning the potential for CMM projects is high. He recognized that utilizing CMM would result in better temperature management in mines, meaning better working hours and increased profits.

Clark Talkington, Vice-Chair, UNECE Group of Experts on CMM, discussed trends seen in the US coal industry over the last decade, including a significant drop-off in coal production especially in underground mines. He stated that although half of underground mines have closed, methane emissions have only fallen by 8% due to the largest, most productive mines remaining open.

The session closed with two presentations on the ICE-CMM, including: the ICE-CMM hosted by the Central Mining Institute in Katowice, Poland, and the ICE-CMM hosted by the Chinese Shanxi Coking Coal Group.

TRACKING PROGRESS IN SUSTAINABLE ENERGY: GLOBAL TRACKING FRAMEWORK REGIONAL REPORTS: Stefanie Held, Chief of Section, Sustainable Energy, UNECE, moderated the session.

Vivien Foster, remarking that it is the first time the regional commissions have collaborated on their respective reports, said the report now has regional chapters, and regional companion reports, giving a perspective from the regional stories. She showed that progress falls short of what is needed to meet the 2030 targets on access to electricity, access to clean cooking, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.

Monga Mehlwana, Economic Officer, Regional Integration, Infrastructure and Trade Division, UN Economic Commission for Africa, highlighting key messages from the African region, noted: Africa is not homogenous in terms of policies, implementation rates, participation, technical expertise, and local investment; more than half of Africa will not reach the access target by 2030 for either electrification or clean cooking fuels; countries’ policies and strategies tend to focus on increasing generation capacity and grid networks instead of improving efficiency; and inability of indicators to capture the complexity of the renewable energy mix, ignoring traditional biomass fuels.

Hongpeng Liu, Director, Energy Division, ESCAP, elaborated on the Asia-Pacific progress in sustainable energy, citing: 93.1 million people have gained access to electricity with the rate of electrification rising from 89.8% to 90.3%; a rise of 1% in access to clean cooking fuels where affordability, accessibility and utility of options remain key barriers; energy intensity has fallen rapidly, although it remains the highest among the global regions; and the share of renewable energy has not increased significantly.

Radia Sedaoui reported on vulnerabilities for the Arab Region, including: interlinked water and food security concerns; growing energy demand over the next decade; rising urbanization; costs of energy imports and losses to economies; climate change vulnerabilities; inclusive national developments; and conflict potential in the region. She cited significant progress in modern energy access, with important remaining sub-regional gaps in the Arab least developed countries, and said it is the only region where energy intensity has been increasing, although it should accelerate more to achieve SDG 7.

Scott Foster, reporting on the UNECE region, observed: that the numbers for access to electricity capture neither quality of service nor affordability; the dependence of human comfort on heating services in the region; and significant challenges to upgrade and renew older uninsulated housing stock with locked-in fossil fuel dependence. Foster suggested that a broader set of indicators is required to include less tangible aspects, such as quality of life and carbon intensity, and that existing indicators should be reviewed to move beyond physical access to quality of access and affordability.

Two reports on tracking progress were presented on Monday. The REN21/UNECE Renewable Energy Status Report was launched. Preliminary results and initial key messages of the Global Tracking Framework Regional Reports were also discussed, with the launch of the reports to follow in the coming months.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

EU Sustainable Energy Week: The conference is dedicated to sustainable energy policy issues. Sessions organized by the European Commission and energy stakeholders debate new policy developments, best practices and sustainable energy ideas, while networking events forge alliances.  dates: 19-25 June 2017  location: Brussels, Belgium  contact: European Commission  www: http://www.eusew.eu

III Ministerial Meeting of the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (ECPA): The ECPA convenes energy ministers, national authorities and others, to provide an opportunity to sharpen priorities, strengthen cooperation, and deepen commitment to a transition to sustainable energy.  dates: 7-8 September 2017  location: Viña del Mar, Chile  contact: Juan Cruz Monticelli, ECPA Technical Coordination Unit Manager  email: jmonticelli@oas.org www: http://ecpamericas.org/Ministerial-Meetings/ECPA-2017-Ministerial.aspx

2017 International Renewable Energy Conference (IREC): IREC 2017 will focus on global renewable energy development with a special focus on Latin America. Initiated at the renewables2004 conference in Bonn, IREC is a high level political conference series dedicated to renewable energy policy worldwide. IRECs are hosted by alternate governments every two years and convened by REN21.  dates: 11-14 September 2017  location: Mexico City, Mexico  contact: REN21 Secretariat  e-mail: secretariat@ren21.net  phone: +33 1 44 37 50 91  fax: +33 1 44 37 50 95  www: http://www.ren21.net/irecs/mexirec-2017/

Fifth Annual International Conference on Sustainable Development (ICSD): The Fifth Annual International Conference on Sustainable Development (ICSD) will take place on the theme, ‘The World in 2050: Looking Ahead for Sustainable Development.’ The 27 conference topics will cover all 17 SDGs and a number of cross-cutting issues, including data, the role of universities in achieving the SDGs, and the arts as a tool to raise awareness of the SDGs.  dates: 18-20 September 2017  location: New York City, US  email: info@ic-sd.org www: http://ic-sd.org

26th Session of the UNECE Committee on Sustainable Energy: This event will focus on exploring how to deliver on the national commitments in support of the energy-related SDGs. It will also discuss the solutions adopted at the Energy Ministerial at the outset of the Eighth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development in Astana. The session will examine the notion of international collaboration and nexus areas to enhance the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.  dates: 26-28 September 2017  location: Geneva, Switzerland  contact: Stefanie Held phone: +44 22  917 2462  e-mail: stefanie.held@unece.org www: http://www.unece.org/energy/se/com.html

Global Science, Technology and Innovation Conference: This will be the first in a series of Global Science, Technology and Innovation Conferences. The series will bring together key stakeholders from science, technology and innovation communities (including the private sector), and provide a forum to review, discuss and identify internationally relevant technology innovations that can lead the world on a more sustainable development course.  dates: 23-25 October 2017  location: Brussels, Belgium  contact: VITO NV  phone: +32 (0)3 2867458  e-mail: info@gstic.org www: https://www.gstic.org