India-U.S. Energy Dialogue launched May 31, 2005 with five working groups

Energy Dialogue, launched on May 31, 2005, to promote increased trade and investment in the energy sector and ensure stable global energy markets. It establishes a framework for cooperation between the two nations to secure clean, reliable, and affordable energy sources.

Who it concerns: The agreement involves India and the United States. Specific entities named include the U.S. Department of Energy, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), India's Department of Atomic Energy, and the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. The sectors affected include oil and gas, coal, power generation, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and civil nuclear energy.

What was agreed

• Establishment of five Working Groups: Oil and Gas, Coal, Power and Energy Efficiency, New Technologies and Renewable Energy, and Civil Nuclear.
• Creation of a Steering Committee to provide oversight of the Working Groups.
• Commitment to promote increased trade and investment in the energy sector through public and private sector collaboration.
• Focus on enhancing end-use efficiency in electricity distribution, specifically for 'last mile' urban and rural networks.
• Cooperation on clean coal preparation and modern coal conversion systems.
• Exchanges between U.S. and Indian nuclear regulatory bodies regarding peaceful nuclear energy initiatives and regulatory oversight.

Also in the document

• The dialogue was launched on May 31, 2005.
• The Oil and Gas and Coal Working Groups met in July 2005 and agreed on future activities.
• The Civil Nuclear Working Group includes discussions on peaceful applications of fusion science.