The International Energy Agency (IEA) hosted its 2024 Ministerial meeting. The meeting was held in Paris from 13 to 14 February. The IEA also celebrated its 50th anniversary. France and Ireland co-chaired the event. Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, was a co-vice chair. Canada, the Netherlands, and Poland were also co-vice chairs.
Minister Bowen represented Australia at key events over video link. Other Australian representatives included:
- Australia’s Ambassador to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OCED), Brendan Pearson
- Head of Energy Performance and Security Division, Clare McLaughlin.
Australia hosted a panel session: “Responsible Investment for Clean Energy Transitions.” This included a discussion on:
- investment for a better global energy system
- key challenges and opportunities for clean energy investment.
Minister Bowen said “[the] Asia-Pacific region is crucial to a successful global energy transformation. Responsible investment will be critical to achieve a lasting clean energy transition.”
Ministers from the IEA’s 31 member countries adopted a joint communique. This will guide the IEA’s activities over the next 2 years. It covers the:
- clean energy transition
- how to achieve a secure and resilient global energy system
- clean energy markets and investment.
Ministers directed the IEA to strengthen cooperation with emerging economies. The IEA will begin discussions with India about full IEA membership. The IEA will also open its first Regional Cooperation Centre in Singapore.
Ministers also recognised the focus on energy in the COP28 outcomes. They directed the IEA lead in the implementation of these outcomes.
