Senior energy adviser to US Department of State, Dr Griffin M Thomson has suggested setting up of economically viable eco-friendly projects in the Northeast to become self-reliant in the field of energy. Talking exclusively with The Assam Tribune here today Dr Thomson, who is closely associated with several big projects in the US, said his government is ready to extend all technical support to the region for initiating any energy project. " This region has tremendous hydropower potential, but before extending any technological support we must get a proper report in this regard. Moreover, our new technologies may be useful for the region,' he said. The senior adviser had arrived in the city today to participate in a programme organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Assam chapter. The programme was aimed at exploring the renewable energy sector in the region. Providing more information on the sector, he said that the demand for renewable energy has been growing at a good pace. "Renewable energy has registered 60 per cent growth in the US. This region can explore renewable energy sector by using proper technology,' he observed. The energy expert also had a marathon interaction with traders and entrepreneurs involved in energy sector. To carry forward plans, Dr Griffin laid emphasis on creating a proper network among the policymakers of the Northeast and the US. "A proper network will help the policymakers to initiate projects,' he observed. The entrepreneurs present in the interaction had sought support from the US to implement the renewable energy projects in the Northeast. A group of traders opined that since Arunachal Pradesh has vast scope in this regard more projects can be carried out in the State.