On 20 October, the Board approved the 2021 Energy Policy to help ADB developing member countries accelerate the development of sustainable and resilient energy systems that provide reliable and affordable access for all, foster inclusive economic growth and social development, and support the low-carbon transition in the region. The 2021 Energy Policy responds to both current developmental and climate imperatives and aligns energy sector operations to Strategy 2030 and global commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement.To keep the policy attuned to new developments and changes and for ADB to readily respond to the ever-evolving needs of its DMCs, the Policy will be reviewed by 2025 and its approaches to energy operations refined so the best options to meet the needs of DMCs will be used.The new policy was able to strike a balance between meeting the energy needs of DMCs and the climate ambitions required to respond to climate change. By ensuring energy access for all through clean energy and related interventions, the policy balances socio-economic goals with climate objectives.Recognizing that the transition cannot happen overnight in a region where the energy mix is more brown than green, the new Policy is able to strike an equilibrium in setting specific parameters for support to gas and oil; and the total eradication of new coal from ADB’s operations.Guided by five policy principles that define the thrust of ADB operations in the coming years, ADB will help the region shift to clean energy. It will also help the DMCs during the crucial transition phase by providing support in the demonstration and deployment of advance technologies, innovative business models, and policy development.The policy recognizes the need to help DMCs with a just transition by mitigating negative socioeconomic impacts and increasing opportunities associated with the transition; supporting affected workers and communities; and enhancing access to sustainable, inclusive, and resilient livelihoods for all. This includes support for planning and technology transfers in a way that involves all relevant stakeholders and affected groups at all stages.Approval of the new Energy Policy is just the start. Implementation of the new policy will require sustained effort and dialogue with DMCs. Guidance will be prepared on specific themes and sources of energy. Three of the guidance notes are already in the initial stages of preparation on gas, waste to energy, and hydropower generation.