Deep Dive Workshop

Resilient Energy Systems Against Extreme Weather Events

Wednesday, 4 June 2025

9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (GMT +8)


Increasingly frequent extreme weather events are posing unprecedented challenges to global energy systems, impacting every stage of the entire energy value chain, including fuel supply, electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and energy demand. The rising frequency and intensity of these events are testing the resilience of energy infrastructure, altering generation potential, reducing efficiency, and shifting demand patterns. These disruptions threaten energy security and sustainable development, particularly in many developing countries across Asia and the Pacific, where energy systems are already strained by rising demand, limited financial resources, and aging infrastructure. Despite the growing urgency to enhance energy resilience, action remains critically insufficient, leaving energy systems highly vulnerable.

This deep-dive workshop aims to raise awareness of the latest findings and insights for building the resilience of energy systems against extreme weather events. It will explore cutting-edge models and tools for assessing climate risks in the energy sector and present their impacts through real-world examples. Participants will discuss strategies to strengthen resilience, covering various measures, including investments, technical and structural improvements, energy source diversification, energy efficiency enhancements, and innovative technologies. The workshop will also highlight ongoing efforts for capacity building and the development of resilient policies, including national strategies, roadmaps, standards, and knowledge exchange. By the end of the workshop, participants will gain scientific knowledge and practical insights for enhancing the resilience of energy systems. The workshop will serve as a catalyst for adopting innovative and forward-thinking approaches to secure a resilient energy future.

AGENDA


09:00 - 09:10 a.m.

Opening Remark

Toru Kubo, Senior Director, ADB


09:10 - 09:20 a.m.

Moderator's Introduction with Scene-Setting Presentation

Jinsun Lim, Climate Change Specialist, ADB


09:20 - 09:50 a.m.

Discussion 1: Are extreme weather events an increasing concern?

Madhurima Sarkar-Swaisgood, Deputy Chief of Disaster Risk Reduction, UN ESCAP


09:50 - 10:20 a.m.

Discussion 2: How do extreme weather events affect energy system resilience?

Henri Paillere, Head of Planning and Economic Studies Section, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) [confirmed]

Wil Smith, Regional Manager of Southeast Asia and India, EPRI


10:20 - 11:05 a.m.

Discussion 3: How can we strengthen resilience through investments and systemic changes?

Len George, Principal Energy Specialist, ADB [confirmed]

Jhan Chan, Australasia Energy Transmission and Distribution Technical Leader, Arup


11:05 - 11:50 a.m.

Discussion 4: How can policies and capacity building support building resilient energy systems?

Ana Diaz, Program Manager, International Organization for Standardization (ISO)


11:50 - 12:00 p.m.

Closing Remark

Arghya Sinha Roy, Director Climate Change, ADB