ACEF Speaker 2021

Matthew Wittenstein

Chief of Section, Energy Connectivity,
United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific

Matthew Wittenstein is Chief of Section for Energy Connectivity at the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP). In his role, Matthew supports efforts by countries across the region seeking to improve the sustainability and security of their energy systems through increased cross-border power system integration. Recent work includes capacity building for energy regulators in ASEAN, an assessment of the potential to develop a “green power corridor” in North-East Asia, and supporting increased cooperation on sustainable energy among the countries of the Pacific. Prior to joining the UN, Matthew was a Senior Electricity Analyst at the International Energy Agency (IEA), where he focused on the economics of generation, the challenges of encouraging investment in clean energy technologies, and electricity market design. He also led the IEA’s work on cross-border electricity security, including the publications “Establishing Multilateral Power Trade in ASEAN” and “Integrating Power Systems Across Borders”. From 2011 to 2014, Matthew was a Fellow in the US Department of Energy’s International Climate Change Office, where he supported the Clean Energy Ministerial secretariat. Mr. Wittenstein holds a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University, with a concentration in international economic policy.

Session/Event:

  • Closing Plenary: Collective Action for Low-Carbon, Sustainable Development