Robust discussions on how demand for capital by the renewable energy sector in Asia continues to outstrip supply coupled with a strategic incubation deal between the Sustainable Energy Association (SEAS) and Hungary's key electricity provider which grabbed the spotlight on the second day of Asia Clean Energy Summit (ACES) 2016.
With more than 1,400 participants at ACES this year, the key highlight was PV Asia Financial Summit. Other events being held alongside with ACES included Asian Wave and Tidal Energy Conference (AWTEC 2016) and the 26th edition of the International Photovoltaic Science and Engineering Conference (PVSEC-26).
On Wednesday, SEAS signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Hungary's Smart Future Lab Zrt. (SFL) to catalyse collaborations from both sides to use their respective regional reach in marketing and networking opportunities, including relevant information and news sharing. For SEAS, the agreement covers the ASEAN region while SFL will promote the EU and Eastern Europe region. Essentially, both parties aim to promote cross-border energy related technology exchange, industry specific collaborations, and study tours.
At PV Asia Financial Summit, key discussion areas that grabbed the spotlight included the role of multilateral and donor agencies in clean energy projects and opportunities in the solar market.
VDE Renewables' Managing Director Mr Burkhard Holder observed that insightful discussions on the need to develop good business practices on new and innovative developments, as well as improve on credit-worthiness criteria were important so that banks and financial institutions are more willing to invest in the industry.
During the three-day summit, SEAS, Energy Research Institute @ NTU and Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) organised the inaugural ACES Exhibition. About 70 companies and organisations showcased their latest clean energy technologies and solutions at the Exhibition, with the aim of catalyzing trade and investment opportunities.