The global market for electric power systems by 2010 has been estimated at nearly $2.3 trillion, and more than half of this investment will be for coal-fired power generation.

At the same time, the energy sectors of many countries are undergoing major transformations. Increasingly stringent environmental regulations, growing international concerns over global climate change, and increased competition among fuels drive the need for advanced power technologies that deliver electricity efficiently, cleanly, and economically both in the United States and abroad.

Within the Energy Department's Fossil Energy Advanced Research Program, an international area focuses on these major strategies:

• Provide leadership in international organizations. The Office of Fossil Energy holds leadership roles in several international organizations: The International Energy Agency, Latin America Energy Organization, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Working Group, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Clean Coal Technology Initiative, and the World Energy Council.

• Maximize export opportunities. The United States is the world leader in the development of clean fossil fuel-powered technologies. The Fossil Energy international team works to ensure that U.S. companies are competitive in global market opportunities for clean power systems, thereby securing jobs, stimulating economic growth for the United States, and contributing to global environmental protection.

Bilateral Agreements are in place with the following countries:

• Brazil
• Canada
• China
• India
• Japan
• United Kingdom

In addition, Fossil Energy collaborates with:

• Indonesia
• Poland
• South Korea

These activities involve sharing information about technologies under development and efforts to eliminate barriers so that these technologies can be commercialized.