The First Social Forum calls for further progress on the social dimension
On 18 November 2008, the first Social Forum in the context of the Energy Community commenced in Tirana, Albania. Officially opened by the Prime Minister of Albania H.E. Dr. Sali Berisha, the two day event took stock of the progress achieved after the signature of Memorandum of Understanding on Social Issues in October 2007. “This Forum shows a common commitment to develop the social dimension of the Energy Community”, noted H.E. Ambassador Mr. Lohan, Head of EU Delegation in Tirana, in his opening speech.
The EU presents a new package on security of supply and sustainability
Last Thursday the European Commission presented a proposal on a wide-ranging energy package. The aims of the package are twofold – to boost energy security in Europe and to enforce the 20-20-20 climate change proposals which should be agreed by December. Central to the new strategy are energy solidarity among Member States and a new policy on energy networks to stimulate investment in more efficient, low-carbon energy networks.
Energy Community takes part to the 5th Vienna Economic Forum
Yesterday, 11 November 2008, marked the closing day of the 5th Vienna Economic Forum. Whilst the enforcement of investments was the predominant theme, a special focus was also put on energy issues. The two day event brought together leading figures heads from business and politics from Austria and across the South East Europe. The Energy Community was represented by Director Slavtcho Neykov and Simon Uzunov, Head of Electricity Unit.
Energy Training’s Governmental Module begins on 12 November
The Government module focuses on the role of governments in the course of electricity market liberalisation. Also, the question “What role should the regulators play in the reform process?” stands at the centre of attention. The training module targets PHLG members, regulatory agencies and energy directorates from the seven Contracting Parties and five Observers of the Energy Community. Several experts from the Energy Community Secretariat will act as speakers at the module. Scheduled for 12 and 13 November, the module will be organised at the Jable Castle at outskirts of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
On 5 November 2008 the European Commission adopted its annual strategy document, explaining its policy on EU enlargement. The document includes a summary of the progress made over the last twelve months by each candidate and potential candidate. The national 2008 progress reports of the seven Energy Community Contracting Parties are now available on-line.
