Singapore-International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) High-Level Forum

• Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower, Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology in the Ministry of Trade and Industry

• Francesco La Camera, Director General, IRENA

• Christophe Inglin, Vice Chairman, SEAS

• Gurbuz Gonul, Director, Country Engagement & Partnerships

The transition towards sustainable energy systems requires an unprecedented level of regional cooperation and investment that the public sector alone cannot fulfil. As regions worldwide work towards enhanced energy connectivity, governments and policymakers must play a central role in cultivating robust investment ecosystems that support the development of secure, sustainable, and affordable energy.

This session will explore how governments have facilitated regional energy integration while managing their national priorities. Panellists will share insights on essential policies, regulations, and partnerships to unlock investment opportunities that accelerate cross border energy projects.

Key Discussion Points:

• What policy innovations and regulatory frameworks are needed to mobilise investments in regional interconnection projects and facilitate cross border energy trade?
• How can governments balance energy security considerations with regional integration objectives?
• What roles can governments play in de-risking investments and fostering public-private partnerships for cross border energy infrastructure?
• How can regional cooperation mechanisms be strengthened to support energy security and sustainability within the region?

Panel:

• H.E. Dr Saleh Ali Hamed Al Kharabsheh, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
• H.E. Chanthaneth Bualapha, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Lao PDR
• The Hon. Roger Cook MLA, Premier; Minister for State Development; Trade and Investment; Economic Diversification, Western Australia (Invited)
• H.E. Sharon Garin, Secretary of Energy, Philippines Department of Energy (Invited)
• H.E. Mr Mukhtar Babayev, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues and President of COP29 (invited)
• H.E. Francisco da Costa Monteiro, Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (invited)

Moderator:

• Gurbuz Gonul, Director, Country Engagement & Partnerships

Presented by:

Successfully developing cross border energy infrastructure requires innovative financing approaches, robust business models, and effective risk management strategies. Given the scale of energy sector investments needed by 2030, mobilising capital for regional interconnection projects has never been more critical.

This session will explore the challenges and opportunities of investing in cross border energy infrastructure. The discussion will examine successful investment frameworks, risk management strategies, and innovative business models that can accelerate regional energy integration.

Key Discussion Points:

• What are the key investment considerations and risk mitigation strategies for cross border energy infrastructure projects?
• How can innovative investment mechanisms and business models help accelerate regional energy integration?
• What technical and commercial solutions are needed to enhance the bankability of interconnection projects?
• How can renewable energy projects impact local industries and contribute to domestic economies?
• How can stakeholders across public and private sectors work together to create more integrated and resilient regional power markets?

Panel:

• Dato' Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director, ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE)
• Michael Boardman, CFO, Gurin Energy
• Sharad Somani, Partner, Head of Infrastructure Advisory, Head of Infrastructure, Asia Pacific and Head of ESG Consulting, KPMG in Singapore
• Pascal Radue, Executive Vice President, Generation and Transmission, Nexans
• Grégory Thomassin, Head of Business Development, TotalEnergies Renewables Asia Pacific

Moderator:

• Birribi Dillon, Head of International Partnerships & Development, Institutional, Export Finance Australia (Invited)

This closing session convenes distinguished leaders to examine how we can collectively advance regional energy integration and the commercialisation of low carbon technology. Speakers will explore practical steps to accelerate investment flows and collaborative approaches needed, setting the stage for continued dialogue and cooperation beyond the Forum.

Panel:

• Roberto Lorato, CEO, MedcoEnergi
• Dr Nor Azlan Bin Mostafa, Chief Strategy & Planning Officer, Single Buyer
• Ravi Balasubramanian, Managing Director, Portfolio Development Group, Managing Director, Investment Group, New Energy and Industrials, Temasek

Moderator:

• Ethan Zindler, Head of Countries and Policies, BloombergNEF (Invited)