Strong public policy enables action. Business requires the support of public policy to deliver its full contribution to address energy challenges through technology, innovation and investment.

Priorities for Action

Business has laid out five key priorities for action. These are the essential elements of policy development that society should be focusing attention on. These priorities are:

1. Improving energy access and meeting growing demand by increasing energy supply and promoting energy efficiency
2. Improving policy frameworks that enable investment and advancement
3. Investment and financing for sustainable development
4. Research, development and technology innovation
5. Partnerships

Business needs a clear, long-term strategic vision and consistent policies. These should be based on free markets and take into account long planning and investment cycles. It is the responsibility of governments to establish – in transparent dialogue with society and business - these frameworks. Strong long term policy reduces uncertainty and triggers business investment in the energy sector.

Further, energy markets need to work efficiently and effectively. Policies that distort prices should be avoided. This will increase the likelihood of:

• Efficiencies in supply and use of energy
• Optimal use of energy resources
• Positive environmental management

Energy regulation and targets need to be based on available modern technologies and successful research and development. They should encourage flexibility and innovation and function in a non-discriminatory manner.

Business messages

Business has important policy messages to delivery to the Commission on Sustainable Development. These can be grouped into two categories:

Energy Policy

• Using proper enabling frameworks
• Allowing for open markets and innovative financing
• Implementing integrated policies
• Encouraging market based mechanisms
• Changing consumer behavior
• Pursuing all energy sources available

Energy Management

• Energy for Economic Growth and Development
• Management of Environmental Impacts
• Research, Development and Technology Innovation
• Energy Efficiency
• Energy Security
• Large investment base and infrastructure