Powering a Low Carbon Future Through Innovation

The second panel discussion of the day, on "Low Carbon Technologies Shaping the Energy of Tomorrow", examined the viability of low carbon technologies. The discussion focused on the need for industry-wide partnerships, advancements in carbon capture and storage, geothermal, and nuclear energy. The panel also shared their views on the importance of international collaboration to accelerate the transition to a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Moderated by Kanika Chawla, Chief of Staff, Sustainable Energy for All, the session brought key insights on how these technologies can shape tomorrow's energy landscape.

Balancing energy security, accessibility, and emissions reduction

Mr Egon van der Hoeven, Vice President of Business Development, Asia Pacific, ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions, noted that one of today's biggest challenges is ensuring energy security and accessibility while reducing emissions.

Mr Jim Gable, Vice President of Innovation and President of Chevron Technology Ventures, Chevron, echoed some of the points that Mr Hoeven made. "When we consider the scale of the challenge, with primary energy demand expected to be 15 percent higher in 2040 than it is today... the energy needs will be extraordinary, and we will require all forms of energy," he said. He shared how Chevron is trialling low carbon solutions, including carbon capture, to address these challenges.

The critical importance of safety in new energy technologies

As the deployment of new energy technologies accelerates, safety remains a top concern. Dr Jean-Christophe Niel, Director General, Institute for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), stressed the need for "a high level of safety" in nuclear energy. Decision-makers must be well-informed about the risks associated with these technologies. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that "the development of new technologies must involve all stakeholders—industry leaders, authorities, policymakers, and technical safety organisations".

Global collaboration in tackling climate change

This sentiment was echoed by H.E. Geoffrey R. Pyatt, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Energy Resources, Department of State, United States, who emphasised that "the climate crisis is a quintessential global issue. We could decarbonise the US economy tomorrow, but that would only solve 11 percent of the problem. We must engage the rest of the world".

This session underscored that no single solution or stakeholder can tackle the challenges of the energy transition alone. The discussions highlighted the importance of safety, skills development, and collective action. As technologies like carbon capture and nuclear energy evolve, inclusive engagement across industries and government is crucial to building a connected and sustainable energy future.

Stay tuned as the conversation evolves throughout the day. Follow @SIEW_sg on Telegram and Twitter for key insights, as we navigate Day 1 together.