Havana, Cuba, became the focal point of the Latin American and Caribbean energy sector on June 12-13, 2024, by hosting the LXI Ordinary Session of the Board of Experts of The Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organization (OLACDE). This event marked the beginning of preparations for the upcoming LIV Meeting of Energy Ministers of Latin America and the Caribbean, supported by the Cuban Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) and in collaboration with the EU-Cuba experience exchange project, coordinated by the International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies (FIIAPP/Spanish Cooperation).
The OLACDE Board of Experts, composed of delegates from the 27 Member States, convened to advise and lay the groundwork for the crucial ministerial meeting scheduled for October 2024 in Asunción, Paraguay, during the IX Energy Week. This body plays a fundamental role in shaping energy policies and facilitating dialogue among member countries on vital regional issues.
During the deliberations, several significant topics were addressed, including:
- Gender and Energy: Implementation of current ministerial decisions to promote gender equity in the energy sector.
- Methane Observatory: Discussions on the importance of monitoring and mitigating methane emissions.
- Critical Minerals: Exploration of sustainable management of essential minerals for the energy transition.
- New Generation Fuels: Evaluation of the potential for new fuels in the regional energy matrix.
- Regional Gas Integration: Proposals to improve the integration of the gas market in the region.
- OLACDE Business Council: Strengthening public-private collaboration in the energy industry.
New ministerial decision proposals were also presented for consideration at the next meeting in Paraguay.
Simultaneously, the XVII Working Meeting of Advisors for the Latin American and Caribbean Energy Information System (sieLAC) was held. This forum focused on improving processes and methodologies for managing energy statistical information, which is vital for decision-making in the region. Participants discussed incorporating new content into sieLAC and reached agreements to strengthen the management and dissemination of relevant energy data.
OLACDE reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting the countries in the region in seeking comprehensive and sustainable energy solutions. The goal is clear: to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure a secure and prosperous energy future for future generations.
This meeting in Havana not only reflects OLACDE’s ongoing efforts to foster cooperation and energy development in Latin America and the Caribbean but also underscores the importance of international collaboration to address global energy challenges.
Communications and Institutional
Relations Department
josefa.corral@OLACDE.org
