On March 18 the annual “Energy Transitions 2019” conference took place in London organized by the Royal Institute of International Affairs, widely known as Chatham House. The conference, where IENE was a supporting organisation, was structured in four main sessions.On March 18 the annual "Energy Transitions 2019” conference took place in London organized by the Royal Institute of International Affairs, widely known as Chatham House. The conference, where IENE was a supporting organisation, was structured in four main sessions.
The first session explored the issues of disruption and innovation addressing the critical role of new technologies, the introduction of new market players and the necessary reform of policies and strategies that will assist in the adjustment to this new energy market. Special mention was made to the intersection between energy and technology, the importance of data and the interconnections.
The second session examined several aspects of electrification and its impact on the electricity systems. Data architecture and data transparency, system flexibility and interconnections between markets were highlighted amongst others while the examples of Denmark and Norway were analysed.
The third session focused on the accessibility to energy on a global level. The need for large scale systems and distribution grids was emphasized whereas China was particularly examined. The panel also pointed out the low representation of the developing countries in policy making, the need for change of the political mindset and the importance of inclusion of the market newcomers.
The fourth session provided insight to investments in light of the energy sector’s transition. The panel identified risks, challenges and opportunities that should be considered for the adaptation of the business strategies and business models to the new reality. The case of Nigeria was specifically explored.
Overall, the "Energy Transitions 2019” was a high-level conference which provided a thorough overview of new actors, new technologies and business models. If a general conclusion was to be drawn by the information presented is that data will play an increasingly important role in the energy industry of the future and that the energy transition requires a change of mindset and the embracement of untraditional actors.
IENE actively contributed to "Energy Transitions 2019” with Knowledge Officer Ms. Alina Gourgioti travelling to London to participate in this major energy policy event.
