Themes

Session I – Energy futures

This session will take a look at the different long-term scenarios for the world's energy production and consumption, the underlying assumptions and the impact of consumption patterns on the world’s climate. Speakers will discuss the economic, environmental and political sustainability of the different scenarios and assess the driving and braking forces for moving towards low-carbon energy scenarios. Special attention will be paid to the European Union's energy policy and the economic opportunities arising from moving first towards a low-carbon economy and acquiring leadership positions in energy technology and energy efficiency.

Session II – Energy supply

This session will be dedicated to energy supplies, the prospects for secure oil and gas supplies, the supply of coal, and technological progress towards "clean" coal as well as progress in sustainable electricity production from other fossil fuels. It will also look at trends in nuclear energy and explore the potential of renewable energy sources. 

Session III – Energy demand

This session will look at major energy consumers, the automobile industry and its response to climate change, the steel industry and its efforts to increase energy efficiency, energy efficient household appliances including efficient lighting and, finally, the potential for energy efficient buildings. It will examine the regulatory framework for greater energy efficiency and the voluntary actions of major industries.

Session IV – Financing energy

Moving towards a low-carbon and energy efficient economy requires substantial investment over the next few decades. The panel will examine investment needs, financial products for financing these investments and the contribution of carbon credits to supporting investment in energy efficiency and low-carbon technology. Speakers representing public and private financial flows will present their ideas, views and proposals.