Energy supply and use in developing countries : a fresh look at western (OECD) interests and US policy options

The overall dimensions of these problems are considered first, in terms of total energy supply and global economic growth, after which the roles of the private sector, host governments, OECD nations, and key international organizations are discussed. Attention is then given to the following issues: ways in which host countries and bilateral and multilateral agencies can facilitate energy investments by Western firms, commercial banks, and other private institutions; institutional capacity building in developing countries; the energy financing roles of the World Bank and the regional development banks; and the roles of the United States and other OECD nations. It is concluded that: (1) OECD nations and multilateral organizations should support a significant increase in foreign, private-sector energy investments; and (2) developed and developing nations, along with key international institutions, should encourage market-oriented economies, which promote such investment. A final section presents specific recommendations.