The International Energy Agency

Background

The IEA acts as energy policy advisor for its 28 member countries in their effort to ensure reliable, affordable and clean energy for their citizens. Founded during the oil crisis of 1973-74, its initial role was to coordinate measures in times of oil supply emergencies. But during the last decades, the energy markets have changed, and so has the IEA. It now focuses well beyond oil crisis management on broader energy issues, including climate change policies, market reform, energy technology collaboration and outreach to the rest of the world.

With a staff of around 250, mainly energy experts and statisticians from its 28 member countries, the IEA conducts a broad programme of energy research, data compilation, publications and public dissemination of the latest energy policy analysis and recommendations on good practices.

Implementing Agreements

To provide a framework for international collaboration in energy technology R&D, demonstration and information exchange, the IEA has established Implementing Agreements. They specify the commitments of the Contracting Parties, and a management structure. They provide for the production and protection of intellectual property, and record arrangements for commercial exploitation and benefit sharing.

The Implementing Agreement "mechanism" is flexible and accommodates energy technology and R&D collaboration between and among different entities, such as government institutions, universities, utilities and private companies. It can be used in all phases of the energy technology cycle, i.e.research and development; demonstration and validation of technical, environmental and economic performance; market deployment and information exchange.

Implementing Agreements can also facilitate a variety of collaborative projects under the same legal framework. "Umbrella" type Implementing Agreements consist of a series of collaborative projects in a technical sector, combined under a single Agreement. Umbrella Agreements offer flexibility - countries need not participate in all activities under an Agreement and specific projects may be initiated or terminated within the framework of an ongoing Agreement.
For more information

To find out more about the work of the IEA, go to its website which also offers extensive resources related to energy policy, issues and statistics.

For more information on Implementing Agreements see the brochure, International Energy Technology Cooperation Frequently Asked Questions. (IEA, 2005) 476kb, pdf

The brochure is also available in Chinese and Russian.