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2nd GECF Seminar

2nd GECF International Gas Seminar

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea

2nd GECF International Gas Seminar

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea

Dr Sun Xiansheng, IEF Secretary General, participated as a guest of honour and delivered a keynote address during the 2nd GECF (Gas Exporting Countries Forum) International Gas Seminar held in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The Seminar, part of the 5th GECF Summit of Heads of State and Government, convened under the theme, "Gas: Challenging the Status Quo, Creating a Sustainable Future."

H.E. Gabriel Obiang Lima, Minister of Hydrocarbons and H.E. Yury Sentyurin, Secretary General of the GECF welcomed participants and opened proceedings. Sessions were introduced by the keynote speech by H.E. Francisco Pascual Obama Asue, the Prime Minister of Equatorial Guinea.

In the session entitled "Natural Gas, Energy and Meeting Sustainable Development Goals," Dr Sun Xiansheng discussed the opportunities and challenges as they pertain to Africa's natural gas sector. He outlined five key advantages for natural gas in Africa including, the role of sustainability, cost competitiveness, abundance of resources, potential for regional integration, and spillover economic opportunities that can occur as a result of increased natural gas use. Dr Sun also pointed out three key challenges for Africa which include improving energy access, facilitating the energy transition, and increasing cooperation and dialogue amongst African countries.

Member-states reiterated their commitment to strengthen global energy security as reliable suppliers of natural gas to meet the world's growing energy demand along with enhancing cooperation and dialogue. From an emissions perspective, member states also resolved to enhance the contribution of natural gas for climate mitigation, adaptation, and protection of the environment.

The 5th Heads of State Summit and the 2nd International Gas Seminar represents the first time that the event was held on the African continent, reflecting the increasing interest of African gas-producing countries to engage with the organisation. The biannual event seeks to promote and facilitate constructive dialogue on the future of natural gas between Ministers, CEOs of national and international oil and gas companies, heads of international organisations, academia, and gas industry analysts. 

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JODI Information Session

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea

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JODI Information Session

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea

A JODI-Gas Information Session was held as a part of the JODI Information Seminar series on 26th November 2019 on the sidelines of the GECF International Gas Summit of Heads of State and Government in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The Seminar was opened by HE Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF); HE Gabriel Obiang Lima, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons of Equatorial Guinea; and HE Yuri Sentyurin, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).

JODI Partners were joined by associate partner, the Organisation of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), to discuss how the JODI Initiative can be best leveraged amongst JODI partners and everyday users.

The JODI Seminar also gathered government officials, industry experts, and media to discuss the progress of JODI since its inception almost 20 years ago. Speakers called for more reliable data to support short-, and long-term market research and forecasts. They also highlighted the importance of data transparency to achieve energy transition and sustainable development goals, including SDG7 that aims to "ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.” Participants also provided insights on the challenges and opportunities of data collection, and how collaboration can achieve shared solutions.

The seminar is part of the ongoing JODI Five-Year Action Plan that calls for:

  • Raising awareness and visibility of the JODI platform and database
  • Identifying and engaging global champions for JODI
  • Extending JODI coverage in Africa 
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14th International JODI Conference

Cairo, Egypt

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14th International JODI Conference

Cairo, Egypt

Hosted by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources of Egypt, the Joint Organisations Data Initiative (JODI) Partners organised the 14th International JODI Conference (IJC14) in Cairo, Egypt on 20 – 21 October 2019. HE Tarek El-Molla, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources opened the conference along with HE Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF). From its founding at the 7th IEF Ministerial in Saudi Arabia in 2000, JODI has consistently delivered on calls for “improved and timely access to energy data for market assessment and transparency” in line with requests from ministers. 

This 14th biennial conference gathered 140 stakeholders in addition to the JODI Partner Organisations (APEC, Eurostat, GECF, IEA, IEF, OLADE, & OPEC) and JODI Associate (OAPEC). The stakeholders included representatives of national and international oil and gas companies, governments, and data users from around the world.

The two-day ICJ14 debated how JODI could improve on delivering free, accessible, official energy data on a monthly basis with the support of the seven JODI Partner Organisations. ICJ14 Participants noted:

  1. The unique nature of the JODI platform that features 10 000 Oil & Gas Data Points submitted by more than 100 countries each month and covers 90 percent of oil and gas supply and demand.
  2. The importance of the timely and robust energy data JODI provides to reduce energy market volatility and enable the achievement of orderly energy transitions through better informed policy and investment decisions.
  3. The need for enhanced dialogue and collaboration to strengthen institutional capacity and improve understanding of energy data for tracking progress on achieving shared policy goals, including through better research data and comparative analysis of outlooks.
  4. JODI Capacity Building Workshops in key regions around the world remain important. Moreover, JODI could further enhance visibility and improve user interfaces through online outreach initiatives including online training tools and the use of social media to enhance capabilities and brand awareness.
  5. ICJ14 participants reaffirmed their commitment to work collectively for enhanced energy data under the JODI Framework and considered including more granular energy data on oil and gas products, energy trade flows and expanding the JODI portal to capture data beyond oil and gas.

The key findings and operational outcomes of the conference will be reflected in the ICJ14 Concluding Statement. These will be taken forward as part of the next JODI Five-Year Action Plan that will guide the JODI Partners in taking the initiative forward over the 2020-2025 period upon the endorsement of the Heads of the JODI Partner Organisations meetings prior to the 17th International Energy Forum Ministerial (IEF17) that Saudi Arabia will host with Morocco and Nigeria as co-host in 2020.

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IEF Lecture: Global Energy Transformation: A Pathway to Sustainability based on Renewables

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture: Global Energy Transformation: A Pathway to Sustainability based on Renewables

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Dr Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF), welcomed Mr Francesco La Camera, Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) on 16 October at the IEF Headquarters in Riyadh. Mr Francesco La Camera presented IRENA’s perspectives on the global energy transformation outlining a pathway to sustainability based on renewables.

He highlighted the key findings from IRENA’s 2019 report, examining a renewable energy roadmap to 2050 to ensure a sustainable energy future (REmap Case). The growing share of renewables in capacity additions for electricity generation, that is well above 80 percent since 2016, shows that renewables have become competitive in the power sector. Renewable deployment and electrification together can deliver 75 percent of energy-related carbon-dioxide emission reductions. With energy efficiency measures included, this would rise to over 90 percent according to IRENA’s REmap Case projection to 2050. Mr La Camera further highlighted the many opportunities renewable deployment can create for employment, the oil and gas industry, and the Gulf region.

Discussions focused on cost implications for network stability while integrating larger shares of renewables. The shorter lifecycles and reduced efficiencies of renewables compared to other energy technology choices were also discussed alongside the merits of government support for renewable energy and fossil fuels through subsidies.  Mr La Camera mentioned that renewable energy enables just energy transformations that help to alleviate energy poverty, facilitate inclusive access to modern energy services for all, and achieve greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. He concluded by mentioning IRENA’s desire to cooperate with other international organisations and financial institutions, and facilitate cooperation among the public and private sector to mobilise the investments that the Global Energy Transformation requires.

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IEF Lecture: ExxonMobil’s 2019 Outlook for Energy: A perspective to 2040

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture: ExxonMobil’s 2019 Outlook for Energy: A perspective to 2040

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The IEF welcomed Chris Birdsall, Manager of the Economics & Energy Division of ExxonMobil’s Corporate Strategic Planning Department to contribute to the IEF lecture series at its Riyadh headquarters on 6 October 2019. Mr Birdsall presented the 2019 Outlook for Energy: A perspective to 2040 which provides ExxonMobil’s perspective on energy demand and supply through to 2040, together with Ms Irene C. Chang, Industry Outlooks Manager Strategy & Portfolio Management of ExxonMobil Upstream Business Development Company, who focused on global gas market trends over the projection period.
 
The report informed a distinguished audience of diplomats, industry representatives and academic researchers on the company’s long-term global view of factors that will shape the world’s energy future. Discussions focused on how energy supply and demand trends evolve across regions and economic sectors, and the role that government and industry can play to scale up new technologies through regulation, trade, and partnership.

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Global Forum on Energy Security

Beijing, China

Global Forum on Energy Security

Beijing, China

Mr. Aurangzeb Qureshi, IEF Energy Analyst, represented Dr Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General, International Energy Forum, at the Global Forum on Energy Security in Beijing, China on 17-18 September 2019. The annual event was co-hosted by the Institute of Quantitative and Technical Economics (IQTE) at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the Institute for the Analysis of Global Security (IAGS), and the United States Energy Security Council (USESC).

Entitled "Global Energy Security in a Changing World: Green and Innovative Solutions", the conference focussed on how energy market volatility combined with developments in green technology influence global energy security. Presentations focused on the future of China’s power sector and how energy transitions impact its current energy mix. Attendees noted a long-term decrease in coal demand that will be offset by an increase in oil and natural gas demand. Follow-up presentations promoted the development of greater inter-connectivity through China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to enhance energy security and cooperation. A special session was held on the trade dispute between China and the U.S. to discuss short and long-term impacts to the global energy market. Mr. Qureshi discussed how the trade dispute could impact the global flow of Liquified Natural Gas, Natural Gas Liquids and polymer-derived products and highlighted implications for both the U.S. and China.

Further discussions focussed on how Asian economies, integrated and linked with the BRI could improve energy access. Sessions underscored that dialogue and cooperation in both public and private partnerships among government and industry are key to ensure global energy security. The Forum concluded with a discussion on breakthroughs in energy technology, and the diversification of transportation fuels to lower emission alternatives to gasoline, such as natural gas, methanol, and hydrogen.

The latest iteration of the Global Forum on Energy Security is the eighth instalment of an initiative that started in 2012. It has now become China’s premier international platform for dialogue on the evolving global energy landscape and the changing nature of global energy security. The forum aims to promote research and information exchanges on energy security among think tanks, government officials, diplomats and industry leaders.

Key Links:

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8th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

8th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, host of the 8th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable (AMER8), with India as co-host, convened 19 IEF energy ministers and 10 heads of key international organisations to debate energy security in the age of change with a view to empower responsible growth in Asia and the world, on 10 September 2019, alongside the 24th World Energy Congress held from 9 to 12 September 2019 in Abu Dhabi.

AMER8 was structured in two plenary sessions that focused ministerial dialogue on:

  1. The role of new technologies for a more competitive and productive world energy mix.
  2. Advancing inclusive access to secure, affordable, and sustainable energy services.

Ministerial dialogue sessions took place under the Chatham House rule with media and press representatives invited to the opening and concluding session of AMER8 proceedings. Key dialogue outcomes were summarised in the concluding statement by the host country.

Plenary dialogue sessions were informed by IEF Background documents developed in collaboration with the Boston Consulting Group.

India, the co-host of AMER8, will seek to advance these dialogue outcomes when it convenes the 9th Asian Ministerial Roundtable (AMER9) in 2021 in New Delhi. Ministerial dialogue findings at AMER8 will also help to inform the 17th Ministerial International Energy Forum that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host in Riyadh on 17 April 2020 with Morocco and Nigeria as co-hosts.

Ministerial Documentation

Welcoming Remarks

  • H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Industry, United Arab Emirates
  • H.E. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Steel, India
  • H.E. Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General, IEF

Plenary Session 1: The Role of New Technologies for a More Competitive and Productive World Energy Mix

Moderator's scene setting remarks

  • Mr Adam Sieminski, President, King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC)

Moderated panel discussion

Plenary Session 2: Advancing Inclusive Access to Secure, Affordable, and Sustainable Energy Services

Moderator's scene setting remarks

Moderated panel discussion

  • H.E. Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury Bir Bikram, Adviser (Minister) to the Prime Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Affairs, Bangladesh
  • H.E. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, and Minister of Steel, India
  • H.E. Sontirat Sontijirawong, Minister of Energy, Thailand
  • H.E. Rachel Kyte, CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL)
  • H.E. Yury Sentyurin, Secretary General, Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF)

Concluding Session: Energy Security in the Age of Change

Concluding Statement

  • H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Industry, United Arab Emirates
  • H.E. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Steel, India
Intro video

Previous Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtables

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Communique G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth

G20 Ministers Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth

Karuizawa, Japan

G20 Ministers Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth

Karuizawa, Japan

The Secretary General of the International Energy Forum, Dr Sun Xiansheng participated in the G20 Ministers Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth that the G20 Presidency of Japan convened under the theme “Accelerating the Virtuous Cycle of Environmental Protection and Economic Growth by Innovation” on 15-16 June 2019 in Karuizawa, Japan.

For the first time, Energy and Environment Ministers from G20 countries, of which most are IEF members, gathered in joint sessions to address energy transitions and global environmental challenges. Ministers focused on Energy Security, Economic Efficiency, Environment plus Safety, while urgently addressing global issues and challenges ranging from climate change to energy access.

The producer-consumer dialogue that the IEF hosts serves as an accelerator for successful transformations along reliable pathways towards modern and sustainable solutions all can afford. Dr Sun Xiansheng contributed to the G20 Ministerial discussions by highlighting the urgent need to strengthen collaboration on new technology and innovation across the entire energy spectrum and to maintain a policy and regulatory environment that facilitates investment by enhancing market foresight and data transparency on the IEF platform.

G20 Ministers recognise that fossil fuels still play a major role in the energy transitions and acknowledge energy security as one of the guiding principles for the transformation of energy systems. They attach importance to promotion of dialogue between consumers and producers as well as global collaboration in the business sector, and the need to facilitate the proper conditions to continue and increase energy investments to ensure in sustainable, affordable, reliable, resilient and cleaner energy systems, the G20 communique noted.

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Previous G20 Meetings

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3rd JODI-Data User Seminar

Tokyo, Japan

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3rd JODI-Data User Seminar

Tokyo, Japan

The JODI Data User Seminar was held in Tokyo on 11 June 2019 as a side event of the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth held under the G20 Presidency of Japan on 15-16 June in Karuizawa. The event was organised by the IEF with the support of GECF, IEA, OPEC, and UNSD and hosted by Asian Pacific Energy Research Centre (APERC) as a part of the Joint APEC-JODI Training Workshop on Oil and Gas Statistics.

The Seminar gathered JODI data users from Japan, Korea and Singapore, experts from JODI Partner Organisations and government officials from 15 economies. The wide range of stakeholders enabled an interactive discussion on the Joint Organisations Data Initiative. The framework of cooperation among JODI Partner Organisations, national administrations and data users continues to benefit global energy market data transparency.

The IEF presented on the history of JODI, a tangible outcome of the producer-consumer energy dialogue among IEF Ministers. The IEA explained the key features that differentiate JODI from other data sources and presented on how JODI data is collected and processed. OPEC and other senior experts from the private sector emphasised the value of JODI data in the market research they conduct. 

A roundtable discussion moderated by APERC was held on the “Potential for enhanced energy data market transparency through improved communication among data suppliers and users”. Here Delegates from JODI Partner Organisations, and seminar attendees shared perspectives on the way forward to overcome challenges they face in compiling JODI World Databases and enable the industry to reap the benefit from easily accessible, complete, and up to date JODI data.

To implement the JODI 5-Year Action Plan, JODI Partner Organisations will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders and users to deliver on key JODI goals that foster:

  • Stronger commitment
  • Better trained professionals
  • Greater public engagement

The side event of the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth, reinforced JODI Partner Organisations work on strengthening energy security which, is one of the guiding principles for the transformation of energy systems, the advance of energy transitions and the support of sustainable growth through free, timely, and robust JODI data.

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Joint APEC-JODI Training Workshop on Oil and Gas Statistics

Tokyo, Japan

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Joint APEC-JODI Training Workshop on Oil and Gas Statistics

Tokyo, Japan

JODI Partner organisations held a joint JODI-APEC Workshop on Oil and Gas Statistics in Tokyo, Japan from 11-13 June 2018. This joint workshop was hosted by the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre (APERC) and held as part of APERC training for their member economies on Oil and Gas Statistics with the support of JODI Partner Organisations (GECF, IEA, IEF, OPEC, and UNSD) with a view to train experts on how to compile statistical energy balances in accordance with JODI standards.

More than 30 delegates from 15 countries in the Asia Pacific Region as well as many international organisations and companies attended, including the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) and CNPC Research Institute of Economics and Technology. The wide range of participants improved understanding of the standards JODI applies, and strengthened the capacity of statistical agencies to enhance energy market data transparency in the Asia Pacific region.

For the first time since JODI's inception, the workshop was held as part of APERC training programme. The cooperative spirit between APEC and the JODI Partner Organisations enabled this joint and mutually beneficial initiative.

Several of the JODI Partner Organisations sent experts to present on the merits and technicalities of JODI, highlighting the importance of cooperation in delivering upon Ministers' calls for enhanced global energy market data transparency. Presentations by JODI Partners detailed the applications of JODI data and highlighted the importance of data granularity for usability. These perspectives underlined the need for clear data definitions and submissions. In addition the workshop assisted attendees in improving collaboration with business entities who report data to national administrations.

The workshop was also held to extend JODI outreach and improve data availability as part the JODI 5-Year Action Plan toward 2020.

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1st IEF-Shanghai Futures Exchange Industry Advisory Committee

Shanghai, China

1st IEF-Shanghai Futures Exchange Industry Advisory Committee

Shanghai, China

Dr Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF) and Mr Jiang Yan, Chairman of the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE) hosted the 1st IEF-SHFE Industry Advisory Committee on the Emerging Asian Energy Trading Market within the framework of the 16th Shanghai Derivatives Market Forum (SDMF) that took place on 27-29 May in the International Convention Centre Shanghai, China. Dialogue focused on the role of newly emerging price discovery mechanisms and risk management tools for evolving producer-consumer relations to strengthen secure, efficient, and sustainable energy trade and investment flows in Asia's growth economies.

The meeting was co-hosted by the IEF and SHFE together with the Shanghai International Energy Exchange (INE), the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation (CPCIF) and sponsored by the Bank of Communications of China (BOCOM).  Mr Fu Xiangsheng,  Vice Chairman, CPCIF and Mr Xu Bin, President and Party Secretary, BOCOM Shanghai Branch, welcomed delegates and provided opening remarks alongside the hosts. Mr Fu Chengyu, former  Chairman, SINOPEC & CNOOC gave a key note speech as a special guest. Discussions were structured in three sessions that focused on:

  1. Key Developments in Oil and Gas Trade with Asian Growth Markets 
  2. Emerging Energy Trade Platforms and Risk Management Mechanisms to Enhance Producer Consumer Relations 
  3. Blueprint of Developing a Comprehensive Energy Derivatives Product Line

Energy market stability will continue to rely on building understanding and trust among producers and consumers that seek to foster new bonds in the Asian Pacific region. This ranges from new price formation and risk management tools, bolstering confidence in price discovery and reporting agencies, to an equitable distribution of burdens and benefits among stakeholders that maintain energy security and resilience through spare capacity, strategic stocks, commercial inventories and enhanced data transparency.

The Shanghai Futures Exchange, the Shanghai International Energy Exchange, and other newly emerging trade platforms stand at the centre of these new momentous developments in Asia. Around 60% of crude traded on the Shanghai International Energy Exchange is sourced from the Middle East which ships 75% of its total exports to Asia. New large importers increasingly influence price formation and will move pricing  East of Suez as more crude flows from the Middle East to China, India, and other growth economies in South West, and North East Asia.

Participants found that dialogue on the platform that the IEF provides in close collaboration with the Shanghai Futures Exchange will strengthen newly emerging  market signals from transparent and reliable functioning  trading hubs. This will offer market participants the opportunity to manage risks effectively while reducing transaction cost in the interest of secure, efficient, and sustainable energy markets in Asia and beyond.

Outcomes will help to inform the global energy dialogue including the 8th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable hosted by the United Arab Emirates on 9-10 September 2019 in Abu Dhabi with India as co-host, and the 17th International Energy Forum Ministerial hosted by China in 2020 with Morocco as co-host.

The full annotated agenda and presentations made available to download are listed below under key documents.

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Previous Joint IEF Industry Advisory Committee Meetings

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4th IEF-OFID Symposium on Energy Poverty

Cape Town, South Africa

4th IEF-OFID Symposium on Energy Poverty

Cape Town, South Africa

Hosted by HE Jeff Radebe, Minister of Energy of South Africa, Dr Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF), and Mr Belkacem Ouzrourou, Director Africa Region of the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) opened the 4th IEF-OFID Symposium on Energy Poverty that took place on 2-3 May 2019 in Cape Town, South Africa. Dr Dapo Odulaja, Head of the Data Services Department of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) also welcomed delegates on behalf of HE Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, Secretary General, OPEC.

HE Jeff Radebe underlined the importance that South Africa attaches to international engagement and dialogue on the platform that the IEF provides to attract investment, improve energy systems, and ensure affordable access to modern energy services for all. Dr Sun Xiansheng, and Mr Belkacem Ouzrourou highlighted the links that exist between the alleviation of energy poverty and economic development. They recognised the need for enhanced dialogue on the many opportunities available and new energy policy and technologies offer for investment and expanding capacity. Invited to give a keynote address, HE Mahaman Laouan Gaya, Secretary General of the African Producers’ Organisation (APPO) addressed the central role that affordable and modern energy services play in the fulfilment of all Sustainable Development Goals of the UN2030 Agenda, and how hurdles may be overcome to close the gap.

Set in a context in which a minority of Sub-Sharan Africa has access to electricity, and under 15% have access to clean cooking fuels according to the latest UN figures. The 4th IEF-OFID Symposium Symposium was structured in five key sessions:

  • Opening Session: Leadership for Energy Poverty Alleviation
  • Session 1: Challenges and Opportunities in Electrification
  • Session 2: Ensuring Access to Clean Cooking Solutions and other Caloric Uses
  • Session 3: Key Indicators for Energy Poverty- the Role of Data Transparency
  • Session 4: Energy Access Financing and Policy Formulation
  • Session 5: Synergies and Collaborations

Session moderators and panellists included senior representatives of intergovernmental organisations, as well as government, and private sector companies including Rashid Ali Abdallah, Executive Director of the African Energy Commission (AFREC) and senior experts of the Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS), the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and JODI Partner organisations.

Discussions focussed on the solutions that alternative energy delivery systems such as Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) and smart grid electrification can offer for clean cooking and rural areas respectively when compared to the cost of national network extensions. The delivery of clean cooking and electricity services is linked to a nexus of development in health, education, gender equality, and opportunities for social-economic growth and stability. Increased public-private energy sector cooperation should extend across borders to enable more diverse and secure energy supply.  Outreach on energy policy and regulation will facilitate both national and regional infrastructure investment. Symposium participants acknowledged that while advances are being made there is a need to improve regional cooperation towards the provision of universal energy access to modern energy services and the complete alleviation of energy poverty.

The full agenda and the concluding statement are available to download alongside speeches and presentations as listed below.

Opening Session: Leadership for Energy Poverty Alleviation

Session 1: Challenges and Opportunities in Electrification

Moderated by: Fuad Siala, Strategic Planning & Economic Services Department, OFID

Session 2: Ensuring Access to Clean Cooking Solutions and other Caloric Uses

Moderated by: Rashid Ali Abdallah, Executive Director, African Energy Commission (AFREC)

Session 3: Key Indicators for Energy Poverty - The Role of Data Transparency

Moderated by: Dapo Odulaja, Head, Data Services Department, OPEC

Session 4: Energy Access Financing and Policy Formulation

Moderated by: Mahama Kappiah, ECOWAS Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

Session 5: Synergies and Collaborations

Moderated by: Ivan Yaholnitisky, Director, Bethel Business and Community Development Center in Lesotho

Closing Session

  • Thabang Audat, Chief Director: Energy Planning, Department of Energy, South Africa
  • H.E. Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General, IEF
  • Fuad Siala, Strategic Planning & Economic Services Department, OFID

Previous Symposia

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JODI Energy Data Transparency Workshop for Sustainable Future

Cape Town, South Africa

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JODI Energy Data Transparency Workshop for Sustainable Future

Cape Town, South Africa

The Joint Organisations Data Initiative (JODI) Energy Data Transparency Workshop for Sustainable Future was held on 30 April-3 May 2019 in Cape Town, South Africa supported by energy data experts from both public and private sectors and attended by some 60 attendees from 14 countries. The workshop was held with the support of JODI partner organisations under the auspices of HE Jeff Radebe MP, Minister of Energy of South Africa.

HE Jeff Radebe remarked that policies, informed by sound data are vital to the improvement of energy systems and economic development, stating that the importance of energy data could not be underestimated. Attendees noted that by building capacity for energy data collection in Africa, national administrations can organise and display data where it is accessible, not just to industry, but to governments, investors and academics to strengthen data transparency and inform dialogue. The availability of such data enhances evidence based strategies for economic development by informing decision makers of a countries energy needs. The active monitoring of policy impact also facilitates policy adjustments, by providing the necessary feedback for assessment of policy progress.

Attendees of the four-day workshop also outlined the importance of energy data to contribute to a more stable global energy market and to increase financial investments in energy infrastructure. This facilitates a less volatile energy future recognising that energy transitions require a quantitative understanding of the current status quo. Through the workshop technical linkage between annual and monthly data collections were explained alongside differences in advantages and focuses of these two energy data collection activities from policy making perspective. To provide for both data collection time frames JODI (Oil and Gas) monthly data collection, annual energy statistics and balances compilation as well as principles of energy efficiency indicators were explained. Energy data transparency in Africa provided improved understanding of their energy system, challenges and opportunities to enable better long term planning and investment decision making.

The workshop covered the following topics:

  • The background, objectives, and status of JODI;
  • Impact of reliable data to policy and investment decision-making from data-user perspective;
  • Definitions and methodologies to complete the JODI (Oil and Gas) questionnaires;
  • Exchanges of good practices to collect/compile energy data among countries and participants;
  • Data quality assessment techniques and practical exercises to complete JODI (Oil and Gas) questionnaires as well as annual questionnaires;
  • Role of effective data dissemination to improve data visibility with practical examples through JODI website;
  • Linkage between monthly and annual energy data collection activities and their different policy objectives;
  • Annual energy statistics and balances compilation;
  • Principles of energy efficiency indicators.

In addition, the Workshop ran alongside the 4th IEF-OFID Symposium of Energy Poverty at the same venue. The workshop attendees benefited from both events, seeing the application that collection of energy statistics has to decision making in the alleviation of energy poverty in Africa.

Presentations are available for download here. 

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IEF Lecture: China-Saudi Arabia Energy Cooperation

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture: China-Saudi Arabia Energy Cooperation

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The International Energy Forum welcomed the Deputy Director of the Foreign Economic Relations Research Department of the Research Center of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Dr Wang Jinzhao on 25 April to give a presentation on energy cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia, and the wider region.

Dr Wang’s presentation featured an analysis of the cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia, as the largest oil importing and exporting nations, respectively. Discussions focused on long-term strategy to build comprehensive, reciprocal, sustainable and inclusive cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia, while strengthening oil trade relationships, expanding mutual investment in oil and gas and promoting energy cooperation in the Belt and Road regions. The presentation was followed by a discussion among the dignitaries from the Riyadh energy community in attendance.

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3rd IEA-IEF-OPEC Technical Meeting on the Interactions between Physical and Financial Energy Markets

Vienna, Austria

3rd IEA-IEF-OPEC Technical Meeting on the Interactions between Physical and Financial Energy Markets

Vienna, Austria

The International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Energy Forum (IEF) and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) hosted the 3rd Joint IEA-IEF-OPEC Technical Meeting on the Interactions between Physical and Financial Energy Markets at the OPEC Secretariat in Vienna, Austria on 28 March 2019.

OPEC Secretary General, HE Mr. Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, HE Dr. Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the IEF, and Mr. Neil Atkinson, Head of the Oil Industry and Markets Division at the IEA jointly opened the senior experts meeting. Discussions were structured into three sessions focusing on the following key topics:

  • Review of Interactions of Financial Markets and Oil Prices
  • Developments in Crude Oil Futures Exchanges, and
  • Climate Related Financial Disclosures

The 3rd Joint IEA-IEF-OPEC Technical Meeting is held once every two years and forms integral part of the trilateral work programme established by the IEA, IEF and OPEC, that was endorsed by energy ministers at the 12th International Energy Forum in Cancún, Mexico, held in March 2010 and subsequent G20 meetings. In addition to the 6 Joint Workshops held over the years, the Joint Technical Meeting represents the 9th event in this ongoing dialogue that considers the evolving inter-linkages between physical and financial energy markets, and new issues of common concern. These largely focused on:

  • Developments in existing and newly established mechanisms for well-informed data driven oil price formation, ranging from the US Gulf, the North Sea, Middle East and West Africa, to Asia, where the lion share of oil will be traded in the future.
  • Growing market interactions between stability and sustainability criteria through an assessment of the impact of climate related financial disclosures on global investment in the oil industry which impose new demands on the industry to balance energy security with shared sustainable development goals.

To encourage open and informative discussions, the Workshop was held under the Chatham House Rule, with participation of key market participants on the financial and physical sides of the market.The next Joint Workshop is scheduled to take place in March 2020.

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Session I - Review of Interaction of Financial Markets and Oil Prices

Moderated by Harry Tchilinguirian, BNP Paribas

Session II - Developments in Crude Oil Futures Exchanges; The Emergence of New Crude Oil Benchmarks and their Impact on Regional Markets

Moderated by Dr Cornelia Meyer, MRL Corporation

Session III - Climate-Related Financial Disclosures; The Impact on Global Investment in the Oil Industry

Moderated by Dr Steven Knell, IHS Markit

  • Climate-related financial disclosures: policy overview – Pedro Gomez Pensado, World Economic Forum
  • Climate-related risks and opportunities – "corporate responsibility" – Brigitte Bichler, OMV
  • Investors' point of view – Michael Eckhart, Citigroup
  • Integrating climate into our strategy – Etienne Anglès d’Auriac, Total

Closing Remarks

Previous IEA-IEF-OPEC Technical Meetings and Workshops on the Interactions between Physical and Financial Energy Markets

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JODI Inter-Secretariat Meeting - March 2019

Vienna, Austria

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JODI Inter-Secretariat Meeting - March 2019

Vienna, Austria

The IEF chaired an Inter Secretariat Meeting of JODI partner organisations among APEC, GECF, IEA, IEF,  and OPEC in Vienna on 26-27 March 2018. 

The meeting, hosted by OPEC at their Headquarters in Vienna, followed up on the progress on the various items per the 2015-2020 JODI Action Plan and the guidance from the JODI Heads & IEF Ministers.

The meeting further reviewed the following:

  • Participation Assessment of the JODI-Oil and JODI-Gas World Databases and steps taken by the JODI Partners to improve quality of the data they are collecting and submitting to the JODI Database;
  • Development and analysis on JODI data users on industry Platforms where JODI data began to appear since October 2017;
  • Progression on the development of an Energy Data Transparency Portal as a part of the JODI Website to feature available coal data and data beyond current JODI (Oil and Gas) framework gathered by JODI Partners;
  • The plan to get more granular LNG trade data to meet increasing demand for such data under the JODI framework;
  • The plan for capacity building Workshops & JODI Seminars during 2019;
  • The next steps to develop the new 5-year JODI plan covering 2020-2025;
  • The plans to hold a JODI Conference late 2019 or early 2020.

Partners reviewed the outline of the JODI Training Workshop for Sub Sahara Africa in April-May 2019, and took note of the plans to hold an APEC- JODI Workshop for Asia Region in Tokyo on June 2019, and the plan to hold a JODI User Seminar as part of the Japan Workshop for Tokyo based energy data users. Partners agreed to proceed on the organisations of a JODI Conference during 4th quarter of 2019 or early 2020.

Partners also took note of progress made on planning for a JODI Information Seminar on the sidelines of  the GECF Summit in Equatorial Guinea on November 2019. The seminar is expected to benefit from large attendance of key policy makers who are attending the GECF Summit.

Energy research and data analytic company OilX presented to the JODI partners their business model which is characterised by the use of cutting-edge data sources such as satellite imaging combined with official data to provide real time data to energy analysts to support more accurate decision making. Furthermore, In the backdrop of increasing attention to digitalisation of the energy industry and policy implication, JODI partners and OilX discussed area of possible future cooperation. 

The meeting concluded that JODI Partners will continue to enhance global energy data transparency through actions identified in the 5-Year JODI Action Plan to begin developing the new JODI Plan that is due to cover 2020-2025. 

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IEF Lecture: Report of China Energy and Petrochemicals Industry 2019 by SINOPEC

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture: Report of China Energy and Petrochemicals Industry 2019 by SINOPEC

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The Secretary General of the IEF, Dr. Sun Xiansheng welcomed SINOPEC delegates and members of industry, academia and the diplomatic community of Riyadh to an IEF Lecture on the "Report of China’s Energy and Petrochemicals Industry 2019" on 25 March 2019. The lecture was opened by Mr. Tao Wang, Deputy General Director of SINOPEC Corporate Culture Department and Mr. Li Xihong, Chief Representatives of SINOPEC in Saudi Arabia highlighting the significance of SINOPEC's operations to China, Saudi Arabia and the international community. China's "Belt and Road" Initiative and its benefit to the international energy sector was a prevalent theme throughout the presentations featuring the Review and Prospects for China’s Energy and Petrochemical Industry, China's Energy Transition and Development Path, China's Refinery Industry Outlook and Peak Oil Demand and New Horizons for the China's Petrochemical Industry.

Presenters included Ms. Jiao Yu, Vice President of SINOPEC Economics and Development Research Institute (EDRI); Dr. Zuoxian Luo, Deputy Director of Industrial Development Research Division and Senior Economist at SINOPEC EDRI; Mr. Xiaoming Ke, Deputy Chief Engineer and Director of Market Research and Mr. Xiaodong Lyn, Senior Analyst in SINOPEC’s Marketing and Research department.

The presentation began with a detailed analysis on the history, development and prospect for China’s petrochemical industry as a major player in the global energy supply chain. China’s increased refining capacity and natural gas production will allow it to further build its international network and deepen global partnerships. The demand for sustainable and advanced products in China is driven by urbanisation and rural vitalisation strategies, a rising middle class, coordinated regional development, technological advancements and the opening of China’s market offers greater potential for investment and encourages more sustainable development. China is expected to hit peak carbon emissions ahead of the rest of the world making sustainable development a top priority. Looking forward into 2019, China is forecasting a stable economic environment amidst a potentially volatile energy market with increased natural gas production despite lower oil and petrochemical demand.

The growth of non-fossil fuels in China’s energy mix and reduction of self-sufficiency rates means a greater dependence on foreign markets. For its part, China aims to lessen its demand of coal for power and embrace advancements in electrification and storage capacity. Crude oil demand is expected to increase due to decreased domestic production, lower oil prices and higher refining capacities. Given the growth of China's diverse import network, SINOPEC forecasts Chinese oil demand to peak in 2027 before giving way to a more diversified energy mix with the uptake of electrification and natural gas in the heavy transport sector. Natural gas demand has increased significantly particularly with the rise of LNG and technological advancements in renewable energy like solar and wind are expected to reduce costs and boost electricity generation.

A key point emphasised during the presentation was the increasing role of independent refineries and the potential to add more integrated and concentrated capacity to the market which would be targeted towards the export market. While oil demand for jet fuel and petrochemicals increases, moves toward greater efficiency, electrification and lower transport fuel consumption will also come to the forefront in China's energy mix. In 2018, China's sale of electric vehicles accounted for about 50 percent of global sales, making electric vehicles a dominant transportation option in the future.

The continued evolution of China’s petrochemical industry, especially considering the growth of ethylene and paraxylene capacity will be a trend to watch for the future. Although China may be the world’s largest market for petrochemicals, per capita consumption is rising slowly. Increasing urbanisation and evolving consumption habits create greater demand for plastics and polymer supply. China will still be required to import petrochemical products and have taken measures to reduce barriers for international trade. Further discussions focused on international investment, trade and efficiency measures to meet China’s growing potential in the industry.

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5th IEF-KAPSARC Thought-Leaders' Roundtable

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

5th IEF-KAPSARC Thought-Leaders' Roundtable

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF), Dr Sun Xiansheng and the President of the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC), Mr Adam Sieminski co-hosted the 5th IEF-KAPSARC Thought Leaders’ Roundtable on 28 February 2019 at the IEF Headquarters in Riyadh. The Roundtable was held under the Chatham House Rules. Dialogue informed by the IEF-KAPSARC Introductory Paper explored the role of efficiency and innovation in sustainable and competitive energy supply in four sessions focused on:

  1. Efficiency Drivers and Gains in Hydrocarbon Supply Chains.
  2. Integrating Low-Carbon Energy technologies in the Upstream and Midstream.
  3. Innovation in Energy Systems.
  4. The Evolution of the Oil and Gas Business Model.

Panelists noted that innovation to make hydrocarbon supply chains more competitive and sustainable is the fastest and easiest way to reduce emissions and highlighted carbon efficiency, industry restructuring to unlock synergies that reduce cost and capture value as key levers.  Discussions focused on the role of carbon capture use and storage and other technologies including new opportunities offered by digitalization in detection to reduce harmful emissions, the development of premium fuels and more efficient energy conversion processes, as well as the reemergence of hydrogen derived from hydrocarbons, renewable, nuclear, and waste materials in enabling successful transformations. Panelists also highlighted the importance of cohesive government-industry partnerships to formulate and advance consistent innovation agendas that mobilise investment, broaden public acceptance and create consensus.

Watch highlights of the 5th IEF KAPSARC Thought Leaders' Roundtable

The Fifth IEF-KAPSARC Thought Leaders' Roundtable follows up on the call by IEF Ministers to pool efforts in globally integrated frameworks to accelerate energy efficiency gains across the full energy sector spectrum and leverage the IEF Energy Efficiency Knowledge Sharing Framework in collaboration with relevant organisations and governance platforms globally. Outcomes will also help to inform the global energy dialogue that the IEF pursues including but not limited to the 8th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable hosted by the United Arab Emirates on 9-10 September 2019 in Abu Dhabi with India as a co-host alongside the 24th World Energy Congress, and the 17th International Energy Forum Ministerial hosted by China in 2020 with Morocco as the co-hosting country.

Symposium Videos

Opening Remarks

Session I: Efficiency Drivers and Gains in Hydrocarbon Supply Chains

Moderated by Adam Sieminski, President, KAPSARC

Session II: Integrating Low-Carbon Energy Technologies in the Upstream and Mid-Stream

Moderated by Steve Griffiths, Senior Vice President, Research and Development, Khalifa University

Session III: Innovation in Energy Systems

Moderated by Kamel Ben Naceur, Chief Executive Officer, NOMADIA Consulting, Former Minister of Energy, Tunisia

Session IV: The Evolution of the Oil and Gas Business Model

Moderated by Axel Pierru, Interim Vice President of Research, KAPSARC

Previous IEF Thought-Leaders Roundtables

9th IEA IEF OPEC Symposium on Energy Outlooks Agenda

9th IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium on Energy Outlooks

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

9th IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium on Energy Outlooks

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The Ninth IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium on Energy Outlooks that the International Energy Forum (IEF) convenes yearly in collaboration with the International Energy Agency (IEA), and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), took place on 27 February 2019 at the IEF Headquarters in Riyadh. Senior government and industry representatives from producing and consuming countries met alongside distinguished energy sector experts to discuss energy outlooks in a collective effort to enhance dialogue on global energy security, energy market transparency, and orderly energy transitions.

Watch IEA-IEF-OPEC video highlights

HE Khalid Al-Falih Minister of Energy, Industry, and Mineral Resources, Saudi Arabia made introductory remarks on behalf of the host country of the IEF, alongside HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Oil of Bahrain and HE Manuel Quevedo, People’s Minister of Petroleum of Venezuela and President of the OPEC Conference.

Symposium Videos

The Symposium was opened by HE Dr Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the IEF, HE Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and Mr Keisuke Sadamori, Director, Energy Markets and Security, representing the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency and welcomed more than 150 senior government and industry representatives from energy producing and consuming countries to the open platform the IEF provides. On behalf of the three organisations the Symposium this year welcomed HE Yury Sentyurin, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and Mr Ian Mead Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration (U.S. EIA) as special guests.

HE Dr Sun Xiansheng, Secretary General of the IEF, Mr Adam Sieminski, President of the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre (KAPSARC), and Dr Adnan Shihab-Eldin, Director General, Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) moderated Symposium Sessions that were governed by the Chatham House Rule and focused on:

  1. The Latest IEA and OPEC Projections and Key Findings from the Comparative Analysis conducted by the IEF in collaboration with Resources for the Future.
  2. Key Stakeholder and Industry Views on Short-, Medium-, and Long-Term Energy Outlooks featuring a keynote address by the GECF, and
  3. Investment and Challenges in the Petrochemical and Refining Sectors introduced by a keynote address by the U.S. EIA.

Welcome by the hosts

Opening Remarks

  • HE Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, Secretary General, OPEC
  • Keisuke Sadamori, Director, Energy Markets and Security, IEA
  • HE Shaikh Mohamed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Oil, Bahrain
  • HE Manuel Quevedo, People's Minister of Petroleum, Venezuela, President of the OPEC Conference

Session I: Key findings from the Comparative Analysis on Energy Outlooks, and presentations of the latest IEA and OPEC projections

Session II: Key Stakeholder and Industry Views on Short-, Medium-, and Long-Term Energy Outlooks

Moderated by Adam Seiminski, President, KAPSARC

Keynote Address by HE Yury Sentyurin, Secretery General, GECF

Session III: Investment and Challenges in the Petrochemical and Refining Sectors

Moderated by Dr Adnan Shihab-Eldin, Director General, KFAS

Keynote Address by Ian Mead, Deputy Administrator, US EIA

Previous IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposia
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3rd IEF-EU Energy Day

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

3rd IEF-EU Energy Day

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF), Dr Sun Xiansheng and the Ambassador of the European Union to Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, HE Michele Cervone d’Urso co-hosted the 3rd IEF-EU Energy Day on 26 February 2019 at the IEF Headquarters in Riyadh.  Keynote addresses, invited from both the European Union (EU) and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), highlighted how both regions view new energy technology deployment opportunities over the long-term to set the scene for discussions in two sessions:

  • HE Jörg Ranau, Ambassador of Germany to Saudi Arabia chaired and moderated Session I on the Economics on New Energy Technologies in Europe and the Gulf Region.
  • HE Luca Ferrari, Ambassador of Italy to Saudi Arabia chaired and moderated Session II on Government and Industry Cooperation to Foster Energy Sector Trade, Investment and Innovation.

The 3rd IEF-EU Energy Day was held under the Chatham House Rules, against the background of recent announcement on renewable energy deployment in the Gulf and Europe. Participants benefited from the contributions of senior government and private sector panelists including from Austria, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and the UK as well as international organisations and multilateral development banks such as the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Arab Petroleum Investment Corporation (APICORP).

Discussants noted that visions evolve and are useful to inspire action and help establish a common direction of travel. New energy technology deployment and innovation, driven by international trade and investment and local manufacturing and research capabilities, as well as greater systems integration and flexibility, are central to meet growing demands regionally, and achieve shared goals globally. Dialogue on enabling policy mechanisms for secure and sustainable energy markets strengthens investor confidence creating new industrial growth and employment opportunities. The IEF is a useful platform for identifying areas of cooperation and acting upon these discussants found. They looked forward to strengthening their engagement and help deepen the dialogue, noting that while tremendous advances are being made there is a need to improve regional cooperation.

The outcomes of the 3rd IEF-EU Energy Day will help to inform the global energy dialogue including but not limited to the 8th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable hosted by the United Arab Emirates on 9-10 September 2019 in Abu Dhabi with India as a co-host taking place alongside the 24th World Energy Congress.

Opening Remarks

Keynote Address: The EU's Strategic Long-Term Vision for a Prosperous, Modern, Competitive and Climate Neutral Economy by 2050

  • Alberto Martelli, First Counsellor, Head of Trade Section, Delegation of the European Union to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar

A Regional Perspective to Introduce Session Discussions

Session I: The Economics of New Energy Technologies in Europe and the Gulf Region

Session Moderator: HE Jorg Ranau, Ambassador of Germany to Saudi Arabia

Session II: Government and Industry Cooperation to Foster Energy Sector Trade, Investment and Innovation

Session Moderator: HE Luca Ferrari, Ambassador of Italy to Saudi Arabia

Previous IEF-EU Energy Days

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IEF Lecture: The Reality of the New Energy Landscape

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture: The Reality of the New Energy Landscape

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Secretary General, Dr Sun Xiansheng, welcomed the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Industry of the United Arab Emirates, Dr Matar Hamed Al Neyadi on 24 February 2019 to give a lecture on the realities of the energy landscape and the need for energy transition.

In his presentation Dr Matar Hamed Al Neyadi noted that energy consumption and production represent around two-thirds of the global greenhouse gas emissions and 81% of the global energy mix is still based on fossil fuels; the same percentage as 30 years ago. Energy transitions are needed to shape a more secure, sustainable, and affordable energy systems for all that respond to global energy-related challenges, while creating value for business and society, without compromising the balance between energy security, access and environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic development and growth.

Dr Matar Hamed Al Neyadi highlighted that hydrocarbons will continue to play a major role in energy matrices, but that renewable energy and efficiency measures could potentially achieve 90% of required carbon reductions according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. Providing further insights into the policies that the United Arab Emirates pursues to achieve a 50% clean energy mix by 2050 he referred to the deployment of renewable and nuclear energy technologies, energy efficiency and other demand side measures as key drivers. 

Discussions focused on the progress made in establishing an Arab energy market and how to advance renewable technologies, through greater interconnections and the provision of flexibility and balancing services including storage, for successful energy transformations within the region. Discussants noted that investment in research and development and communication on the role of new and existing technologies is key to improve energy sector performance and better inform policy. 

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1st G20 Energy Transitions Working Group Meeting

Tokyo, Japan

1st G20 Energy Transitions Working Group Meeting

Tokyo, Japan

The International Energy Forum (IEF) took part in the first meeting of the G20 Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG) held in parallel with the first Environment Senior Officials Meeting (ESOM) on 12-13 February 2019 in Tokyo. With the aim to accelerate the virtuous cycle of environmental protection and economic growth by innovation ETWG and ESOM meetings shall work in tandem towards the first joint energy and environment ministers meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth convening on 15-16 June in Karuizawa under the G20 Presidency of Japan.  

ETWG sessions focused on the possibilities of innovation in the energy sector, developments in energy demand and supply, and international oil and gas market security. The IEF was invited to present the achievements gained from cooperation between consumers and producers, activities contributing to energy security and energy transitions, as well as greater energy data transparency to improve secure and sustainable energy market functioning in the framework of the Joint Organisations Data Initiative (JODI) coordinated by the IEF with JODI Partner Organisations (APEC, Eurostat, IEA, GECF, OLADE, OPEC, UNSD).    

Among the many initiatives ongoing to stabalise markets and advance orderly energy transitions the role of the IEF and JODI are key the chair noted in his summary. Discussions highlighted the need to advance investment and innovation in the energy sector and focussed on the role of new technologies to accelerate successful energy sector transformations. Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and other new gas technologies, renewables integration, cleaner use of hydrocarbons, as well as infrastructure resilience are all important levers to improve market conditions and enable greater energy access and resource efficiency.

IEEJ Energy Outlook 2019

IEF Lecture: IEEJ Energy Outlook 2019

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture: IEEJ Energy Outlook 2019

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Secretary General, Dr Sun Xiansheng, welcomed Mr Masakazu Toyoda, CEO and Chairman of the Institute of Energy Economics (IEEJ), to the IEF Secretariat on 17th January to give a presentation on the IEEJ 2019 energy outlook and provide a perspective from Japan on the world energy future.

Mr Toyoda discussed trends in world energy supply and demand balances to 2050, on the basis of three IEEJ scenarios that compare results for maintaining current energy and environmental policies in place, to the introduction of powerful new policies and low carbon technologies, and efforts to keep global warming within the 2 degrees Celsius threshold at a reasonable cost to society. 

In the reference scenario global primary demand will increase by 1.4 times in 2050 and over 60 percent of that demand growth will come from China, India and the ASEAN countries. While decoupling of economic expansion from energy demand growth proceeds and reduces demand growth rates in the OECD, the share of Asia in total primary energy demand will amount to almost 50%. Global electricity demand will double by 2050 accelerating at a faster pace in Asian economies than in the non Asia region growing from 21% to 30% and from 20% to 28% over the projection period respectively. Coal will play a smaller yet still vital role in Asia’s power generation while natural gas and renewable advance. From an Asian perspective, energy imports and reliance on overseas supplies will increase sharply when 80% of energy traded globally will be consumed in Asia.

Although the share of fossil fuel consumption decreases to around 69 % by 2050 in the advanced technology scenario, high dependency on fossil fuels will continue. Greater investment, technology advances, and efficiency gains will be required to ensure energy security and environmental sustainability. This will limit the energy import reliance of Asian economies and lead to a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050.  

Mr Toyoda presented a model to ensure a balanced approach between mitigation, adaptation and costs to effectively mitigate the negative effects of climate change over long-term horizons.  Focussing on the role of technologies, he highlighted advances in the production of carbon-free hydrogen by steam reforming of fossil fuels in combination with Carbon Capture and Storage alongside other technologies.

After discussing the risks and impacts of energy supply disruptions, and a moratorium on new coal fired power plants, Mr Toyoda concluded his presentation with the recommendation that more focus should be on placed on innovative technologies that can balance energy demand with environmental responsibility. 

17th JODI WS Beirut

17th Regional JODI Training Workshop for MENA Region, Countries

Beirut, Lebanon

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17th Regional JODI Training Workshop for MENA Region, Countries

Beirut, Lebanon

The 17th Regional JODI Training Workshop targeting MENA countries was held in Beirut, Lebanon from 11-14 December 2018. Coordinated by the IEF, the workshop was held as part of Training on Energy Statistics hosted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA). It was supported by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and other JODI Partners, including GECF, UNSD and the newest JODI Associate, OAPEC.

More than 30 delegates from 17 countries took part in the workshop which improved support of the Joint Organisations Data Initiative (JODI), and raised awareness of the importance of data transparency while strengthening capacity of statistical agencies in the Middle East and North Africa.

The workshop was aimed at relevant energy data professionals in charge of energy data collection and dissemination at national administrations. Through presentations, discussions and practical exercises the regional statistical capacity was strengthened towards the shared aims of improved energy data transparency. For the first time in the history of JODI, the workshop was held in association with a training programme on building annual energy balances from comprehensive energy commodity statistics. The cooperative spirit of JODI among international organisations has enabled such joint programme, which provids a comprehensive picture of energy data compilation activities and their application for better decision.

Several of the JODI partner organisations sent experts to present on the merits and technicalities of JODI, highlighting the importance of cooperation in delivering upon ministers’ calls for global energy data transparency. The International Energy Agency presented the uses of JODI data including the importance of data granularity for data usability. Their perspective offered valuable insight into the needs of specific definitions and consistent submissions to build a more informed energy future.

Three officials for the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center provided welcome insights into the requirements of data users, namely; the need for free, regular, consistent, timely and transparent figures. KAPSARC’s presentation also exhibited some end uses of energy data including their inputs for policy initiatives, forecasts and investment models. OAPEC presentation exhibited the usability and highlights of OAPEC’s energy database.

The hands-on nature of the workshop’s training sessions gave delegates the opportunity to learn about JODI definitions in more detail. Specifically, the workshop reinforced an understanding of the techniques required to perform necessary data quality assessments which underpin the accurate and timely completion of JODI questionnaires. Delegates expressed particular interest in the experience-sharing elements of the programme.

The workshop was held as a part of the JODI 5-Year Action Plan toward 2020 to extend its reach to regions where there is room for improving data availability.

UNESCWA and the seven JODI partners will continue their work with MENA countries to follow-up on commitments and action items agreed in Beirut with the aim of capitalising on the experience gained through this successful workshop.

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IEF Lecture by Mr Ma Weidu

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Lecture by Mr Ma Weidu

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

IEF Secretary General, Dr Sun Xiansheng, welcomed Mr Ma Weidu to the IEF Secretariat on 29 November to give a presentation and lecture on Cultural Exchanges in History between China and Saudi Arabia on Ancient Works of Art with regards to the Belt and Road Initiative. 

Mr Ma Weidu  is a Chinese cultural scholar, writer, expert in Chinese art work who is also the founder of the Guanfu Museum. He hosts multiple popular TV and livestream programs where he shares his experiences in culture and antique collection with his audience. Currently he is a member of China Democratic National Construction Association; and a member of the board of directors of China Association for Friendship; goodwill ambassador for WildAid.  

Mr Ma Weidu is committed to promoting Chinese culture to the world. He gave many lectures in schools, government organizations, companies and residential quarters, such as Party School of the Communist Party of China, National School of Administration, and Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and so on. He was invited to give lectures at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, Denver Art Museum in the USA, Confucius Institute in Turkey and so on.