29th IRENA Council Kicks Off In Abu Dhabi With 400+ Officials From 169 Countries To Shape Global Energy Transition

The 29th meeting of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Council is set to begin tomorrow, 11 September, in Abu Dhabi. Over two days, more than 400 government officials from IRENA’s 169 Member countries and the European Union will come together to provide strategic guidance on the Agency’s work programme and discuss key issues shaping the global energy transition.

A central focus of the 29th Council will be a programmatic discussion on energy security. Participants will explore strategies to diversify renewable energy supply chains, support next-generation technologies, and strengthen regional manufacturing capabilities. The session will feature IRENA’s latest analysis of the geopolitical and economic landscape of renewable energy supply chains, with particular emphasis on the solar PV sector.

Francesco La Camera, IRENA Director-General, highlighted the importance of resilient and transparent supply chains, stating, “While the shift toward renewables is a key enabler for energy security and independence, global supply chains remain concentrated in a few nations. Efforts to diversify them must contend with complex economic realities, making this Council an important opportunity to advance the discussion collectively.”

H.E. Mr Francisco Chacón Hernández, Ambassador of Costa Rica to the UAE, KSA, and Jordan and Chair of the 29th IRENA Council, emphasized the inclusive and collaborative nature of the meeting. He said, “IRENA has been a successful, inclusive vehicle for countries seeking solutions toward sustainable energy. As Chair, topics such as energy transition, decarbonisation, and renewable energies will be at the forefront. True to our Costa Rican approach, we will listen respectfully and work together in good faith to advance shared goals.”

Members will also discuss advancing investments in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), which IRENA identifies as critical to decarbonising long-haul aviation. The Agency will present its latest work on supporting SAF projects and mobilising investment through its financing platforms, helping countries and developers turn projects from concept into bankable ventures. The 29th IRENA Council will conclude by setting priorities for the Agency’s future work, addressing key institutional matters, and preparing for the 30th session, reinforcing IRENA’s role in guiding the global energy transition.