The energy subregion as a basis for greenhouse policy

Abstract

This paper presents the concept of the ‘energy subregion’ as an appropriate framework for reducing energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. This framework links populations and their energy needs in space and time to specific energy resources, infrastructure projects, sectoral demands, environmental outcomes and supply security issues. It enables emissions reduction measures to be implemented at an organisational level which is commensurate with the differing resource levels of discrete subregions or country groups and with the decision-making powers of the key players. It also encourages a polycentric approach to energy policy which reduces the dependence of the developing ‘South’ on the industrialised ‘North’. Existing energy regions are reviewed and examples of emerging subregions are presented from the East Asia-Pacific region.