Siemens sees Asia Pacific as ‘energy demand growth’ driver

German firm Siemens Energy is projecting that economies in the Asia Pacific region will immensely propel energy demand growth within the stretch of two decades or until year 2040.

Brian Byrne, senior vice president of Siemens Energy Asia Pacific Hub, said “Asia Pacific’s growth aspirations will drive the 80-percent increase in energy demand projected by 2040.”

But he cautioned that “investments in energy sources, supply and infrastructure will need to be carefully balanced between growing energy demand and protecting the planet.”

That need for “balance” has prompted the German energy giant then to gather energy policymakers, industry leaders and customers in the Asia Pacific region to discuss action plans relating to the ‘energy transition’ that is now flourishing globally.

Centered on the theme “Shaping the Energy of Tomorrow”; the conference that will happen virtually on March 9-10, 2021 will also tackle changing energy landscape, challenges and opportunities ahead, as well as balancing energy demands with carbon neutrality and climate change.

The event will draw insights from speakers from leading firms and organizations in the region, including those from Japan, South Korea, Singapore and other ASEAN countries.

Invited speakers from the Philippines – primarily from SMC Global Power Holdings Corporation of the San Miguel Group and the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), will be joining panel discussions on: Energizing societies to enable successful and sustainable growth; and the power of digitalization in managing grid complexity.

As further noted by Byrne, “the journey towards a secure, affordable and more sustainable energy system can only be achieved through collaboration and strong partnerships.”

According to Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, chief executive officer of Masdar, “given the region’s rapid economic growth and the commitment to sustainable development shared by the countries there, we see tremendous potential for renewable energy throughout Asia Pacific.”

Marc Becker, chief executive officer of Siemens Gamesa Offshore Business Unit, similarly noted “the need to decarbonize our economy to fight climate change is acknowledged by countries and companies on an unprecedented level.”

He emphasized that in protecting the environment, “renewable energy technologies from Siemens Gamesa are already contributing to the ongoing global recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic,” with him stressing that “as a carbon neutral company since 2020, we’re encouraged by the increased generation of clean, cost-efficient renewable energy around the world, and the long-term benefits it provides for customers, ratepayers and society-atlarge.”