The King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) and the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ) have expanded their strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to accelerate innovation in energy research, contributing to an effective energy transition for a more sustainable future.
The signing ceremony, held in Jeddah on the sidelines of the official state visit by Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with the HRH Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammad Bin Salman in Saudi Arabia, marks an additional milestone in the collaboration between KAPSARC and IEEJ. Last year, during the 43rd IAEE International event hosted in Tokyo, the two organizations laid the foundation for their cooperation by signing their first MOU.
The renewed collaboration agreement extends beyond research activities. The MOU framework encompasses joint workshops and events, participation in international conferences, peer review of research and policy papers and exchange of researchers. By nurturing a vibrant ecosystem of knowledge exchange, KAPSARC and IEEJ will aim to drive transformative impact in the energy community.
Combining intellectual capital and research capabilities, the collaboration will extend to various areas of mutual interest, including hydrogen, ammonia, synthetic fuel/methane, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), carbon recycling, direct air capture, nuclear power, and various other niche climate solutions to modern energy challenges.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the partnership, President of KAPSARC Fahad Alajlan stated that the work KAPSARC has done with the IEEJ goes beyond energy policy, climate, and sustainability. It also encompasses enablers such as technology and finance to ensure a just and inclusive energy transition. “This transition is crucial not only for our two countries but also for the global population of over 3 billion people currently without access to energy.”
Chairman and CEO of the IEEJ Tatsuya Terazawa added, “I am excited to raise the level of cooperation with KAPSARC to a higher level with this MOU. We need to turn expectations for energy transition into reality. I believe that IEEJ and KAPSARC could lead the world in this important task together.”
The collaboration between KAPSARC and IEEJ stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to diversify its energy sources and foster a sustainable economy under the Saudi Green Initiative umbrella, engaging with both energy consumers and producers. This partnership not only supports Saudi Arabia’s goals but also strengthens the broader energy partnership between Japan and Saudi Arabia. By working together, KAPSARC and IEEJ are driving innovation, knowledge sharing, and research advancements that will contribute to a more sustainable energy future in both countries and globally.
The King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) is an an advisory think established in 2007 by Saudi Royal Decree. KAPSARC conducts research and provides advisory services in the field of global energy economics and sustainability, catering to entities and authorities in the Saudi energy sector.
The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ) is a non-profit organization established in 1966. It conducts research on energy, environment, and international cooperation, providing policy recommendations and reporting on the geopolitical situation. Supported by over 100 member-companies, IEEJ contributes to the development of energy-related policies and solutions.
