US vows to support Asean's energy requirements

MANILA, Philippines - The US government affirmed yesterday its commitment to support energy needs while mitigating climate change as Washington committed more than $44 million in support of energy development in the ASEAN region.

At the ASEAN Clean Energy, Trade, Technology and Investment Forum yesterday, business and government officials acknowledged that member countries of the regional bloc must continue to identify new and efficient ways of producing clean energy to continue economic growth.

The forum, sponsored by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) in cooperation with the US Department of State and the ASEAN Secretariat, follows through on the commitment by President Barack Obama and ASEAN leaders to address climate change and a sustained and balanced global economic recovery.

Issues to be addressed during the forum are related to clean energy development in the ASEAN region, including the adoption of policies and technologies that enhance efficient power production with a focus on limiting greenhouse gas emissions.

In her opening speech to the plenary session of the Forum, USTDA Director Leocadia Zak affirmed the US commitment to investing in the deployment of new energy sources and clean energy solutions that will spur the green energy revolution.

“The US government is committed to strengthening economic ties with ASEAN and promoting US industry solutions to support energy needs while mitigating climate change,” Zak said. “The US can provide funding to ASEAN countries that seek to work with US private sector experts on shared priorities. USTDA’s program identifies new commercial opportunities and helps to prepare project sponsors for financing and implementation.”

USTDA has committed more than $44 million in support of energy development in the region, accounting for 45 percent of its total commitments to ASEAN countries.

Zak recognized ASEAN’s efforts towards meeting an ambitious agenda of closer cooperation in energy project development, efficient energy use, clean energy promotion and development of new clean energy technologies.

Throughout the three-day conference, senior government officials and industry representatives will discuss regulatory issues, project financing, technology strategies, and business opportunities for clean energy development.