APEC and Energy
What is the APEC Energy Working Group (EWG)?
APEC economies account for around 60% of world energy demand.
The APEC region overall is a net energy importer, meaning that aggregate annual consumption of energy exceeds annual domestic production, with the balance imported from third-party economies. Energy imports to APEC economies are projected to increase in future years, as indigenous (or "within economy") supply fails to keep pace with expanding energy demand driven by economic growth, industrialisation and urbanisation.
The EWG, launched in 1990, is a Working Group of government officials. The EWG seeks to maximise the contribution of the energy sector to the region's economic and social well-being, at the same time as mitigating the environmental effects of energy supply and use. The EWG is one of 11 Working Groups operating under the APEC umbrella.
Responding to the challenges of short-term energy supply disruptions and increasing long-term demand for energy, the EWG strives for energy security in the region.
The EWG usually meets twice in each year.
What is the APEC Energy Working Group Business Network (EBN)?
The EWG recognises that business makes an important contribution to its work program. The EWG established the EBN in 1999 as a mechanism for public/private dialogue.
Each member economy nominates two business representatives to the EBN. EBN representatives participate in EWG meetings as well as conducting their own activities. The APEC Gas Forum (APGAS) is an EBN initiative.
What is the APEC Energy Ministers' Meeting?
APEC Energy Ministers' Meetings (EMMs) provide policy guidance and momentum for the work of the EWG in implementing measures, consistent with the goals established by APEC Economic Leaders. APEC Energy Ministers have met eight times since their first meeting in Sydney, in 1996.
APGAS representatives are invited to attend EMMs.