IRENA Assembly 2026: Energy Transition Agenda For Shared Prosperity

The 16th International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly takes place in Abu Dhabi from 11-12 January 2026, bringing together around 1500 ministers, senior officials, private sector leaders and experts. Delegates from IRENA’s 171 Member States will discuss how renewable energy can support shared prosperity under the theme ‘Powering Humanity: Renewable Energy for Shared Prosperity’.

The gathering is described as the first major international energy meeting of the year and also launches the 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, scheduled from 11–15 January in Abu Dhabi. Heads of state, ministers, high-level delegates and specialists are expected there to explore ways to speed up global sustainability efforts.

Discussions at the 16th IRENA Assembly cover regional energy transitions and how to unlock investments for renewable energy projects worldwide. Delegates will examine power grids, energy planning, digital tools and Artificial Intelligence, as well as financing options, sustainable aviation fuels, and the role of renewables in strengthening agri-food systems and green industrial development.

Betty Soto, Deputy Minister of Innovation and Energy Transition of the Dominican Republic, speaks on behalf of the incoming Presidency of the Assembly. "For Small Island Developing States, the energy transition is inseparable from resilience, justice, and the right to a secure future. The Dominican Republic has shown that rapid progress is possible when national determination meets strong international cooperation, as seen in initiatives like the Sargassum-to-Energy project. As we assume the Presidency of the 16th IRENA Assembly, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, member-driven institution and advancing renewable energy as a force that powers humanity, protects the most vulnerable, and accelerates a just and sustainable global transition."

The Assembly aligns with the 6th World Energy Transition Day and is scheduled to start on 11 January 2025 with a High-level Dialogue titled ‘Reimagining Energy Futures: Bold Visions for Shared Prosperity’. A series of preparatory ministerial and high-level events takes place on 10 January 2025 to help shape IRENA’s upcoming work programme.

Francesco La Camera, IRENA Director-General, links the gathering to broader geopolitical and climate shifts. "It’s time to ignite a global push and positive vision for the energy transition," said IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera. "The world is changing fast. Shifting geopolitics and intensifying climate impacts are putting countries’ energy resilience at risk. While renewables are breaking records year after year, progress remains geographically uneven, leaving many countries locked out of the benefits renewables bring. That is why our IRENA Assembly will put real-world solutions and new approaches centre stage — unlocking the full potential of the energy transition as a driver of inclusive development, structural transformation and long-term resilience in both developing and developed countries."

Bojan Kumer, President of the 15th IRENA Assembly and Slovenia’s Minister for the Environment, Climate and Energy, highlights IRENA’s role in multilateral cooperation. "At a time of uncertainty, IRENA stands as a clear and trusted voice for global cooperation on renewable energy technologies," emphasised Bojan Kumer, President of the 15th IRENA Assembly and Slovenia’s Minister for the Environment, Climate and Energy. "IRENA represents a cornerstone of the energy transition, promoting sustainable growth and long-term economic prosperity around the world. Over the past year, IRENA has successfully navigated challenges and now stands ready to continue its mission. I wish every success to the 16th IRENA Assembly."

As IRENA’s main decision-making body, the Assembly serves as a platform where governments, companies, investors, international organisations and youth representatives exchange views on all aspects of the energy transition. The 16th IRENA Assembly is designed to advance practical cooperation, align political momentum and guide international work on renewable energy during 2025 and 2026.

With inputs from WAM