ASEAN, EU launch energy program

JAKARTA (JP): The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union (EU) have launched a five-year program to stimulate and support energy projects in both regions, the two international bodies announced in a joint statement.

"The program will be managed by the Jakarta-based ASEAN Center for Energy (ACE). The executive body of the EU, the European Commission, is contributing around 18 million euros to the program," the joint statement said.

The program will help the energy industries in both regions in formulating policies and carrying out training programs, feasibility studies, seminars, exhibitions and study tours, the statement said.

It will cover five subsectors, including electricity (the ASEAN power grid), natural gas (trans-ASEAN gas pipeline), clean coal technology, energy efficiency and renewable energy, the statement said.

"It (the program) will cofinance projects initiated by the energy industries, both public and private," it said. (03)