Word from the Chairman

After making stops on several continents (Madrid, Tokyo, Houston, Buenos Aires, Sydney, and Rome) the World Energy Congress returns to Montreal in September 2010. This Congress, which is held every three years, has become a key gathering point for all the world's energy leaders. And while every era has its own challenges, the 2010 Congress could take on greater significance than ever before.

Worldwide, all energy sectors now face a growing sense of urgency. More energy is needed from now until 2020, with prices rising significantly, while world energy demand is expected to double by 2050. One third of the world population does not yet benefit from a reliable energy supply. The energy industry is faced with overwhelming problems of environmental, social and political acceptability. In short, the situation is more challenging than ever.

In the fall of 2010, the time will be ripe for a new summit on energy. This will be the first major gathering after the COP15* in Copenhagen, whose objective is to reach a global agreement on climate for the post-2012 period (i.e., the end of the first period of commitments under the Kyoto Protocol). The new rules and objectives that are expected to come out of this important meeting will obviously have an impact on the energy sector, which will have to adapt to the new groundrules.

The theme for WEC Montreal 2010, “Acting now on global challenges – Energy in transition for a living planet,” reflects the undeniable sense of urgency that faces the world's energy sector.

During the four days of the Congress, the theme will be split into four major “planetary challenges.” Each day will move along at a fast pace, alternating between keynote speakers, more technical parallel sessions, and plenary sessions with round tables and group discussions. We will proceed along the same lines each day, starting with an attempt to grasp the day's challenges, followed by a closer sectoral analysis before we try to synthesize the day's discussions into a plan of action. At the same time, we are doing our utmost to prepare enriching technical visits and exciting social activities for you that will, without a doubt, make your stay here a memorable one.

Everyone who has already had the opportunity to visit Montreal has a good sense of our city's outstanding appeal and welcoming environment. This is particularly true in September, when the temperatures are most pleasant and the fall colours begin to transform the landscape. The Convention Centre (the event venue) and the official hotels are located in the downtown core, all within 2 kilometres of one another.

We are making a special effort to offer a meaningful, high quality program to ensure that your stay is pleasant, memorable, and affordable.

I look forward to seeing you in Montreal.

Richard Drouin C.C., O.Q., Q.C.
Chairman of the Board
WEC Montreal 2010

• COP15 is the United Nations Climate Change Conference of Parties to the Framing Agreement. It will be held from November 30 to December 11, 2009, in Copenhagen.