The International Confederation of Energy Regulators (ICER) was founded in October 2009 in Athens with the objective of improving the profile and public awareness of the work of national energy regulators in monitoring electricity and gas networks and safeguarding consumer interests. The value of ICER ICER comprises 12 regional associations of energy regulators, representing more than 200 national energy regulators worldwide. As a practical, virtual network of energy regulators, ICER provides a platform for energy regulators to focus their efforts on critical issues of global significance. Major international bodies such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and International Gas Union (IGU) are forging links with ICER. The World Forum on Energy Regulation, 13-16 May, in Quebec City, (WFERV) was a rare occasion for national energy regulators who, for the past 3 years, have worked together (through e-mail and phone conferencing) on ICER deliverables to finally meet in person. What has ICER’s achieved? In 3 years, under the chairmanship of Lord Mogg, ICER has developed a significant body of work including reports, distinguished scholar awards and events. At WFERV, ICER launched 4 new international reports on: • Guaranteeing Reliability and Security of Supply; • Renewable Energy and Distributed Generation, • Smart Meters, • Competitiveness and Affordability issues. 3 of these reports have an easy-to-read factsheet. All publications are freely available on the ICER website (www.icer-regulators.net). The ICER 2012 Distinguished Scholar Award, Best Practices category went to an Italian paper on innovation-driven regulatory developments in Italy; smart grids, smart meters and e-mobility. What's next for ICER? At WFERV, ICER launched four themes which will guide its work over the next 3 years until the next World Forum in Istanbul in 2015. The themes are: •Technological change and renewables; •Opening of markets; •Regulatory best practice; •Consumers. Going foward, ICER's work will place an even greater focus on the challenges of energy regulatory issues in emerging and developing economies. For more on how energy regulators global cooperation, ICER's 2012 Distinguished Scholar Award or on ICER's 2012-2015 Work Plan, see ICER recent Press Releases. |