The Office of the Pacific Energy Regulators Alliance (OPERA) convened its 2nd annual meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, from the 15th-18th of October, 2023. The event coincided with the Asian Pacific Energy Forum, organised by UNESCAP.
OPERA members discussed critical energy regulation issues and opportunities that hold the key to shaping the energy landscape across the Pacific. The meeting served as a nexus for interaction with stakeholders and partners actively participating in the Asian and Pacific Energy Forum.
A notable component of the meeting was the site visit to the Electric Vehicle (EV) battery factory of Amita Technology in Bangkok. Amita Technologies is a leading manufacturer of Lithium-Ion batteries for Electric Vehicles, showcasing the cutting-edge innovations driving sustainable energy's future.
A key outcome of the meeting was the announcement of OPERA's expansion. Four new members—the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Niue, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) and Tuvalu—have joined the alliance, bringing the total membership to 13. The alliance now includes Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu, Palau, Solomon Islands, Cook Island, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, FSM, Niue, RMI, and Tuvalu.
The three-day OPERA Annual meeting and a one-day pre-event were made possible through the financial backing of the Asian Development Bank’s technical assistance (TA). OPERA members from Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu attended the meeting.
OPERA, founded in December 2016, has emerged as a pivotal force in steering the energy transition in the Pacific. Recognising the crucial role of energy regulators, OPERA strives for robust, independent, and effective regulations that act as catalysts for private sector investments. The alliance is committed to promoting modern energy utility regulation in the region, fostering a platform for capacity building, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and skills.
OPERA is supported by the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
