The IEA Energy Technology Network (Technology Network) is an ever-expanding, co-operative group of more than 6000 experts that support and encourage global technology collaboration.  At the head of the Technology Network is the Committee on Energy Research and Technology (CERT). Made up of senior experts from IEA member countries, the CERT provides leadership and policy guidance based on expertise provided by four sectoral working parties and two cross-cutting experts’ groups.

At the core of the Technology Network are more than 40 independent, multilateral technology initiatives – the Implementing Agreements (IAs). The IAs encourage technology-related activities that support energy security, economic growth, environmental protection and engagement worldwide. Through a flexible and effective framework, the IA mechanism enables IEA member and non-member countries, businesses, industries, international organisations and non-government organisations to share research and best practice on existing and breakthrough technologies, to fill existing research gaps, to build pilot plants and to carry out deployment or demonstration programmes.  To date, more than 1200 projects have been completed.