This initiative, which includes a trans-Asian energy system, will help to ensure both the near- and long-term energy security of the Region. It will connect producers and consumers of energy resources and facilitate new markets for clean and efficient energy technologies. Its goal is to shift development to a low carbon path while ensuring universal access to energy within a predictable time frame. Rapid economic growth of the Region translates to rising energy demands, both to sustain the large and growing production economy as well as to support direct energy consumption.