Busan: Energy transition, in Brunei Darussalam's context, goes beyond merely adding renewables. It encompasses the responsible and strategic integration of traditional oil and gas with cleaner energy sources to sustain economic growth, safeguard energy security, and fulfil climate commitments. This was highlighted by the Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Defence during the opening of the 15th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Energy Ministerial Meeting, APEC EMM, in Busan, Republic of Korea.
According to Radio Television Brunei, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof explained that this balanced approach reflects Brunei's unique energy landscape and its resolve to transition towards a low-carbon future. As part of this effort, Brunei aims for a 30 percent renewable share in its total power generation capacity by 2035 and is advancing its largest solar photovoltaic project, a 30 Megawatt plant expected to be completed by 2026.
During the second thematic session of the meeting, the Minister underscored that a modern, resilient, and flexible power grid is crucial for energy security and a successful energy transition. The discussion highlighted the necessity for coordinated policies, infrastructure upgrades, and enabling environments for public-private collaboration to address challenges such as increasing demand, renewable intermittency, and aging grid systems. The 15th APEC EMM endorsed a Joint Ministerial Statement as part of this year's deliverables.