The cooperation in energy has been a central subject of
BIMSTEC initiative. The energy situation in BIMSTEC is characterized
by low per capita consumption and fast growing demand, limited supply
of nonrenewable energy, and heavy reliance by a large part of the
population in most member countries on traditional energy. As a result,
BIMSTEC countries are largely dependent on import of non-renewable
energy, particularly oil. However, some countries in BIMSTEC have
considerable reserve of hydrocarbon including natural gas, coal and
oil. Myanmar, with naturally endowed primary energy resources, has
immense potential for the cooperation in energy sector especially with
BIMSTEC countries and Japan. This paper discusses the energy
resources in BIMSTEC countries and the possible complementarities
in energy sector among the BIMSTEC countries and between BIMSTEC
and Japan. The paper concludes that there are ample opportunities for
regional cooperation, not only in the production and utilization of natural
gas but also in hydroelectricity; and in the development of new and
renewable sources of energy. One of the conclusions of this paper is
that greater cooperation with Japan would help BIMSTEC countries in
strengthening energy related infrastructure and sourcing modern
technology.