London, 12 March 2010

The Energy Institute (EI) has formally merged with the British Energy Association (BEA) to form UKWEC – the UK Member Committee of the World Energy Council (WEC). UKWEC will operate within the EI as a special network – membership of which provides companies and individuals with access to high profile seminars, as well as opportunities to contribute to WEC research activities and network with energy professionals across WEC’s global community of around 100 countries.

Work towards the creation of UKWEC began in June 2009 with a proposal to BEA members that it fully integrate with the EI to provide WEC with a greater body of expertise on UK energy issues.  At the BEA’s AGM in July 2009, members voted in favour of the merger between the two organisations.

Michael Gibbons, Chairman, UKWEC, says, ‘With energy policy high on the agenda of governments worldwide, the creation of UKWEC from the EI/BEA merger strengthens the UK’s contribution to the international energy debate and reinforces the value of this extended network. There were clear synergies between the two organisations, each seeking to inform from an evidence-based approach and to promote the sustainable supply and use of energy; each acting independently as a platform for debate rather than lobby groups, and valued by policy makers as a result.’

He adds, ‘The launch of UKWEC means increased resource and more opportunities for our members to engage and draw greater benefits from their involvement in WEC affairs. I very much look forward to leading UKWEC on future activities.’

As one of the foremost multi-energy organisations in the world today, WEC has member committees in most of the largest energy-producing and energy consuming nations, representing all of the major energy interests from a multi-disciplinary standpoint. Established in 1923, it is well known for its authoritative reports, analysis, research, and long-term energy projections, and the work of the organisation spans the entire energy spectrum including coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear, hydro and new renewables.

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The first event organised as UKWEC will discuss ‘The changing politics of energy and climate policy’ and is held in London on 18 March 2010. For more information about how to join and participate in UKWEC and WEC activities, visit:

www.worldenergy.org/uk