WEF panelists address energy poverty and security at Riyadh summit

Attendees of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh on Sunday discussed energy security amid the transition to greener global energy, at a session focused on energy access and development for those without a basic energy supply.

The panel of industry experts was led by the President of the World Economic Forum, Borge Brende, and included speakers such as European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson and Qatari Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi.

Brende emphasized the imperative of energy access, reminding the audience, “there is close to 800 million people on our planet that don’t have access to basic electricity.”

Simson highlighted Europe’s progress in energy security, stating that the bloc is shifting away from “crisis mode”, while Sherida Al-Kaabi emphasized his commitment to greener energy.

“We must ensure sustainable energy practices for both present and future generations,” he told the panel and audience.

Saudi Minister of Energy, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, shed light on the stark reality faced by millions worldwide who lack access to basic energy resources. He urged the international community to consider the plight of those suffering from energy poverty and emphasized the need for inclusive and sustainable energy solutions.

“We have to be conscious of the fact that 60, 70% of the world population do not have that choice,” Bin Salman said.

The World Economic Forum aims to address pressing global challenges and foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure energy security and sustainable development for all, spanning two days and 50 sessions, with the participation of over 1,000 leaders from around the world, according to their website.

(Reuters)