The World Energy Council is more than ever committed to working toward responsible growth that reconciles economic development, environmental protection, and the reduction of global inequalities.

The point in time is crucial. September 2010 falls 9 months after COP15 and just a few months away from the G8 Summit in Canada. The energy industry urgently seeks solutions to “respond now to global challenges” as the situation requires an unprecedented level of cooperation between the energy industry & government, allowance for the realities of emerging economies, and an understanding of the diversity and complexity of the challenges and the evolving needs of the human community.

To underscore the historic milestone the event represents, concurrently with the Congress, Montreal will host the Financial Times Energy Leaders Summit—taking place for the first time outside of London. In addition, for the first time, the Youth Congress will be fully integrated into the Congress program, which will endeavour to ensure adequate representation from developing countries.

Because the energy situation concerns us all as energy consumers, the Congress will also invite the general public into its proceedings with free lunch-time conferences, debates featuring renowned public figures, and a green energy exhibit.