OREANDA-NEWS. In the last seven years the GDP energy intensity halved in Belarus, First Vice Premier Vladimir Semashko stated during the opening ceremony of the 12th Belarusian Energy and Ecology Forum, reported the Official website www.government.by.

He noted that in 2006 the GDP energy intensity stood at 415 kg of oil equivalent per $1,000. In 2007, the figure fell to 365 kg per $1,000. At the same time in order to reach the same GDP energy intensity as in Belgium, Holland, France and other developed countries (from 150 to 180kg per $1,000) Belarus will have to reduce the current GDP energy intensity two or two and a half times.

Belarus has adopted a new energy security concept. By 2020, some $31,4 billion will be invested in energy saving projects. The country has been introducing cutting-edge technologies and equipment as well as boosting the share of local fuels.

The 12th Belarusian Energy and Ecology Forum opened in Minsk Football Manege on October 16. It will last till October 19. During the forum the following exhibitions will be held: EnergyExpo, ExpoLight and Water and Air Technologies. Over 300 companies from 17 countries take part in the forum.

EnergyExpo is an annual exhibition of Belarusian and international producers and developers of equipment, materials and technologies used in power engineering. It is one of the largest exhibitions of the kind in the CIS and Baltic States. This year the number of participants and hence the exhibition area have been increased.

EnergyExpo showcases power-generating and distribution equipment, eco-friendly technologies, devices for environmental protection and monitoring, waste disposal and recycling technologies. The subdivision Energy-Saving highlights alternative sources of energy, energy-saving heating solutions. The visitors of the exhibition will also have an opportunity to learn about new light, electric and water systems.

The 12th Belarusian Energy and Ecology Congress will be held on October 17 in the Palace of the Republic. Participants of the congress will focus on energy security, development of the state policy in power engineering, ecology and energy saving, local fuels and alternative sources of energy. During the congress, round-table discussions, workshops and presentations will be held. This year Day of Russia will be organized at the Belarusian Energy and Ecology Forum for the first time (October 17, Football Manege, Conference Hall).

The Belarusian Energy and Ecology Forum is organized by the Ministry of Energy of Belarus, Belenergo Concern, Energy Efficiency Department of the State Standardization Committee, Ministries of Industry, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, Housing Maintenance and Utilities, State Committee for Science and Technologies, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus.