IRENA Council Meeting In Abu Dhabi Discusses Renewable Energy Goals Ahead Of COP29

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is holding its 28th Council meeting in Abu Dhabi, just before the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29). Over two days, IRENA Members will discuss key issues related to the energy transition. These include efforts to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030, as highlighted in the First Global Stocktake Outcome.

A recent report by IRENA, titled "Delivering on the UAE Consensus: Tracking Progress Toward Tripling Renewable Energy Capacity and Doubling Energy Efficiency by 2030," was published in collaboration with COP28 and COP29 Presidencies, Brazil's Government (host of COP30), Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy, and the Global Renewables Alliance (GRA). The report indicates that current national plans are expected to achieve only half of the necessary growth in renewable power by 2030 to keep global temperature rise within 1.5°C.

IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera stated, "The 1.5°C target is still within reach, but the risk of missing it is becoming increasingly near." He emphasised that the third round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) must address this gap by 2030. With COP29 approaching, he sees the IRENA Council meeting as a chance to stress the need for greater ambition before Baku.

Dr. Gloria Magombo, Secretary for Energy and Power Development in Zimbabwe and Chair of the IRENA Council, remarked on the significant gap between current renewable energy progress and climate goals. She said: "The alarming gap between the current global trajectory of the renewables-based energy transition and our collective climate targets underscore the urgency of IRENA’s mission." As Chair, she is dedicated to ensuring that this meeting supports IRENA's mission to accelerate progress among its members.

The 28th IRENA Council will also explore national experiences in energy transition. They will examine challenges and opportunities for increasing finance mobilisation towards renewables. Additionally, they will discuss innovative technologies and partnerships crucial for transforming small island economies' energy systems.

During these meetings, participants will also review the implementation of IRENA’s work programme and budget. This collaborative approach aims to enhance support for renewable initiatives globally.

Global Campaign Initiatives

IRENA has recently launched a global campaign called ‘#3xRenewables for the planet and its people’. This initiative seeks to encourage action and cooperation towards tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030.

The discussions at this council meeting are crucial as they set the stage for future actions needed to meet ambitious climate targets. The focus remains on enhancing renewable capacity while addressing financial mobilisation challenges.

With inputs from WAM