Energy Policy Scenarios to 2050

Chair: Brian Statham (South Africa)

This major study to develop new energy policy scenarios follows earlier WEC work, such as Energy for Tomorrow’s World (1993) and Global Energy Perspectives (1998), both of which were updated in 2000 and 2003. 

Applying two groups of realistic assumptions about the myriad drivers of global energy demand, it will focus on the different policy and strategy choices that can be made now to maintain energy development on a sustainable path in all regions of the world between 2030 and 2050. 

Options that can deliver outcomes closer to WEC’s 3As will be explored.  The report will be published for the Rome Congress in 2007 or, if the recently expanded scope of the study requires it, one year later.

A Study Group was formed. It will be supported by a number of other groups and advisors:

The Executive Assembly: Final authority on inclusion of the study in the Business Plan (September 2004) and on publication of the report (which it may delegate to the Officers Council). Forum for review of work in progress in 2005 and 2006 through Symposia.

The Studies Committee: Reporting to Executive Assembly, chaired by an elected Officer, and charged with oversight of the studies programme. Responsible for approving Terms of Reference and broad modus operandi and for approval of the final text to be submitted to the Executive Assembly (or if so delegated, the Officers Council).

Secretary: the Director of Studies The Study Group: Group Chair appointed by Chair of the Studies Committee. Comprised of individuals nominated by the Member Committees. Responsible for developing the substance of the study and developing the final text to be submitted to the Studies Committee.

Secretary: the Director of Studies The Steering Committee: A small group within the Study Group and members of it, dealing with the procedural and managerial aspects, but not substantive aspects, other than as members of the full Study Group.
Secretary: the Director of Studies

Specialist Groups: Such focused sub-groups as the Study Group may see fit to form to, for example, prepare a particular presentation to the Study Group.

External Invited Experts: Individuals (or organisations) who are not members of WEC but have recognised expertise which the Steering Committee and/or Study Group deems valuable for the study. To be invited to Study Group meetings and other meetings as appropriate.

Advisory Commission: Top level industry executives and other prominent individuals invited by the Chair of WEC to meet twice in plenary session to review and comment on the thinking and direction of the work, especially taking into account the policy implications.

Partner Organisation: The organisation we select to undertake the quantitative analysis and which would presumably also be involved in the development of the qualitative scenarios to at least some extent.