IRENA's 30th Council Meeting To Set Priorities For Global Energy Transition Ahead Of COP30

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) will hold its 30th Council meeting in Abu Dhabi, focusing on advancing the global energy transition. This two-day event aims to review progress and set priorities as preparations for COP30 and the 16th IRENA Assembly continue. The discussions will centre on achieving the UAE Consensus goals, which include tripling renewable power capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030.

Despite increased renewable energy deployment, IRENA's recent report highlights that current progress is insufficient to meet global targets. The report was launched at the Pre-COP in Brazil. IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera stated, "We have never been closer to closing the gap. While the 582 gigawatts of renewable additions in 2024 still fall short of what is needed to meet the tripling goal, they mark a new global deployment record for a third consecutive year, narrowing the gap. However, governments must show leadership and make COP30 in Brazil a milestone for renewables. With new NDCs due ahead of COP30, this 30th IRENA Council is an important moment to underscore the need for greater collective ambition."

The meeting will also explore clean industrialisation's role in sustainable development. Discussions will cover enhancing resilience in critical materials and renewable energy supply chains. Programmatic sessions aim to address these issues comprehensively.

Francisco Chacón Hernández, Chair of the 30th IRENA Council and Costa Rica's Ambassador to the UAE, emphasised collaboration. He noted that Costa Rica's experience shows renewables can coexist with social progress and economic resilience. He said, "The Council meets at a moment of renewed opportunity ahead of COP30. Our experience in Costa Rica shows that an energy system driven by renewables can coexist with social progress, economic resilience, and environmental stewardship. But the scale of today’s challenge demands that we work collectively, bridging regions, sharing knowledge, and accelerating action."

The Council will receive updates on promoting regional cooperation and discuss strengthening international partnerships. Members will share national experiences and explore ways to expand investment access for scaling up renewable energy deployment.

Outcomes from this meeting will inform discussions at the 16th IRENA Assembly scheduled for January 11–12, 2026, in Abu Dhabi. This assembly will gather ministers and high-level representatives to assess global progress and set priorities for the upcoming year.

With inputs from WAM