Profile
GFSE is a neutral multi-stakeholder platform which is facilitating international dialogue on energy for sustainable development by taking into accounts the special interests and challenges of developing countries. GFSE aims at the establishment of a sustainable world energy system in a social, economic and environmental perspective. It contributes to both international discourse and information dissemination on sustainable energy. GFSE plays a crucial role in facilitating sustainable energy projects, by bringing together donors, investors and project developers. Their interaction produces new opportunities and enhances existing initiatives in the field of sustainable energy.
Supporters and Partners
GFSE is organized on a broad basis in Austria and internationally. The GFSE activities are supported by the Austrian Development Cooperation in the Ministry for European and International Affairs and the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). The GFSE secretariat is currently hosted by the Austrian Energy Agency. The GFSE activities are carried out case by case with different international partners such as UNDP, UNIDO, UNEP, GNESD, REEEP, IIASA and ESMAP.
Outlook
GFSE is currently exploring possibilities for its further institutional strengthening and is open to involvement of new partners in its activities. It is committed to an open institutional form and welcomes partners from various sustainable energy activities.
Institution
GFSE grew out of the outreach efforts of the World Energy Assessment. The forum was launched by the Austrian Foreign Minister in September 1999. Its Secretariat is based in Vienna and is managed with the support of the Austrian Energy Agency. The GFSE is organized as an association under the Austrian law.
Services & Activities
Annual conferences are the visible peak of the GFSE activities. GFSE positions itself at the intersection of international energy discourse and diplomacy, and practical project-oriented work in the field. Beside feeding into the international energy discourse, raising awareness, and disseminating information, the GFSE is ready to undertake a more practical role in facilitating energy related activities.