Under Article 24.2 of the Law on the Government of Mongolia, an Energy Policy Council has been established under the Minister of Energy. The council is tasked with providing professional counsel on energy sector strategy, policy, the energy transition, and the expansion of renewable and distributed energy sources.
The council will analyze short, medium, and long-term energy strategies while drafting policy documents for the sector. It is responsible for developing proposals that align with international trends and domestic requirements, while providing expert guidance on accelerating the energy transition and increasing renewable energy consumption. These recommendations will account for a broad range of technical, economic, environmental, and social impacts.
Furthermore, the council will review the planning, implementation, and outcomes of major infrastructure projects. By drawing conclusions based on efficiency, financing, and risk assessments, the body will submit formal proposals for improvement. It will also prepare technical recommendations to bolster the safety and reliability of the energy system, specifically aimed at preventing risks and reducing equipment failures or accidents.
At the council’s inaugural meeting, Minister of Energy B.Naidalaa emphasized the need to increase the valuation of labor for the approximately 18,000 employees within the energy sector. While noting the industry’s strengths, he stressed that expert participation is vital to overcoming systemic hurdles.
“We are working to address the critical challenges facing the energy sector, including capacity shortages, outdated infrastructure, worn-out equipment, and obsolete technology,” the Minister stated. He also highlighted issues regarding governance, low productivity, short-term debt, and a shortage of human resources. He concluded by announcing that comprehensive reforms in tariffs, investment, and technology will be implemented to transform the energy sector into a consumer-centered, reliable, and accessible system.
