Mekong - U.S. Partnership
This program led by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) built technical capacity across the Mekong region for integrated river planning and management to help ensure that energy development projects consider social and environmental considerations while improving energy security. This program enabled MUSP nations to make holistic energy planning decisions that consider long-term impacts on communities and the environment. The Foundations enhanced capability to implement regional frameworks on water resource utilization, basin development strategy, and to improve studies on the impact of water resources development.
Foundations also strengthened the ability of the Mekong River Commission through national Mekong committees to gather and communicate data to MUSP policy makers, including findings within the Mekong countries and lessons learned from the Mississippi-Mekong River Commission exchange program.
The Foundations promoted sound and sustainable natural resource management and climate change policies and improves institutions and human resource capacity to address transnational issues related to natural resources, with emphasis on forests, renewable energy, wetlands, and biodiversity. The program accomplished this by improving dialogue between scientists and policy makers to both better inform policy makers and help scientists identify knowledge gaps that should be addressed through research and sharing of best practices. In addition, it strengthened cooperation and exchange of information in the region for effective management of water resources in the Mekong River basin.
The Foundations utilized their relationships with research institutes to help assist MUSP nations. Oak Ridge National Laboratory provided training and technical expertise in the assessment of water resources and hydropower needs along the Mekong River, assisting the Mekong River Commission. The Mekong River Commission received assistance in maintenance and monitoring stations for data collection in each of the MUSP nations. In addition, the MUSP countries received training in hydrological, meteorological, and water quality data for energy and resource environmental optimization.
