Many governments around the world are focused on stronger action on energy efficiency as a key policy priority in order to address today's pressing global energy challenges of ensuring energy security and affordability while reducing emissions. However, IEA analysis has shown that despite this increased ambition, global progress on energy efficiency is slower than in the last decade. This slowdown is locking in greater levels of wasted energy, as well as higher costs and emissions.
The IEA's Annual Global Conference is the leading international forum for advancing energy efficiency, bringing together ministers, CEOs and other senior leaders from the civil, finance and business sectors every year, from every corner of the world.
"We know that many governments around the world are implementing policies to boost energy efficiency, but progress is not yet fast enough," said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. "Providing policy makers with real-world solutions is the goal of the IEA's Global Conference on Energy Efficiency, and I am delighted that Canada will host the 11th edition. The Canadian government is showing real ambition on energy efficiency, and I thank Minister Hodgson for his leadership."
Minister Hodgson said "I'm proud to announce that Canada will co-host the International Energy Agency's 11th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of Canada's ambitious clean energy agenda. I look forward to welcoming leaders from across the globe for these important discussions, which are taking place in North America for the first time."
The Montreal event follows the IEA's 10th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency, which took place in Brussels earlier this year. 49 governments from around the world agreed at that conference to work together towards faster progress on energy efficiency. In a joint outcome statement, they highlighted several priority areas for action where efforts to double progress this decade will have some of the strongest impacts.
The IEA will continue to strengthen public-private collaboration on energy efficiency at the Global Conference in Montreal. To help achieve this, the IEA and the Canadian government will be partnering with Hydro-Québec, a recognised leader in energy efficiency, to help drive industry engagement at the event.
Claudine Bouchard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hydro-Québec, said "Renewable energy is a precious resource for Québec, and energy efficiency is at the heart of our strategies. Hosting the 11th Global Conference on Energy Efficiency in Montréal is a strong recognition of our leadership in this field. This event will be an opportunity to showcase Québec's expertise while drawing inspiration from the best international practices. We look forward to contributing to the discussions and mobilizing key stakeholders in Québec to give momentum towards responsible and innovative energy consumption."
