Navigating the Energy Transition: Insights from IRENA’s 28th Council Meeting in Abu Dhabi

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) convened its 28th Council meeting in Abu Dhabi today, marking the final gathering before the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29). The two-day meeting will focus on vital discussions concerning the global energy transition, particularly progress toward tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030, as set forth in the Outcome of the First Global Stocktake.

A recent report by IRENA, titled Delivering on the UAE Consensus: Tracking Progress Toward Tripling Renewable Energy Capacity and Doubling Energy Efficiency by 2030, indicates that current national plans are projected to achieve only half of the necessary growth in renewable energy to keep global temperature rise within the 1.5°C limit. IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera emphasized the urgency of increasing ambition, stating, “The 1.5°C target is still within reach, but the risk of missing it is becoming increasingly near.” He urged that the third round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) must address this gap ahead of COP29.

Dr. Gloria Magombo, IRENA Council Chair and Secretary for Energy and Power Development in Zimbabwe, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the critical disconnect between the current trajectory of renewable energy adoption and the collective climate targets. She expressed her commitment to ensuring that the Council approaches its agenda with a collaborative focus on accelerating progress across IRENA’s Membership.

The Council will also examine national experiences in energy transition, financing challenges, and innovative technologies necessary for transforming small island economies. Additionally, participants will consider the implementation of the Agency’s work programme and budget.

IRENA has launched the campaign ‘#3xRenewables for the planet and its people’, aimed at fostering global action and cooperation to achieve the goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030.