The Fifteenth Session of the IRENA Assembly: Accelerating the Renewable Energy Transition
In January 2025, over 1,300 participants converged in Abu Dhabi for the Fifteenth session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly, themed “Accelerating the Renewable Energy Transition – The Way Forward.” This pivotal gathering included global leaders and influential decision-makers in the energy sector, all focused on strategizing actions to expedite the shift toward renewable energy, in alignment with key global frameworks such as the UAE Consensus, the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, and the Paris Agreement.
The Assembly serves as a critical platform for discussing progress in renewable energy, sharing best practices, and setting goals to align efforts globally. Attendees participated in a series of sessions on January 12 and 13, culminating in actionable strategies aimed at addressing pressing challenges in the energy sector.
IRENA’s Director-General, Francesco La Camera, reinforced the urgency of the energy transition, stating, “We are entering a new era of change… The energy transition will drive economic transformation.” With energy security becoming increasingly vital in a world faced with geopolitical tensions and environmental challenges, the message of collaboration among nations was reiterated throughout the sessions.
High-Level Discussions: Concrete Steps and Commitment
During the high-level plenary discussion, experts emphasized concrete actions required to implement the outcomes of recent climate conferences, namely COP28. With a strong focus on tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, panelists discussed the necessity of international cooperation and overcoming financing challenges. Notably, Kadri Simson, EU Commissioner for Energy, remarked on the imminent need for implementation, stating, “It is all about implementation. 2030 is only six years away.”
The discussions not only spotlighted the progress made but also highlighted significant disparities in renewable energy deployment between the Global North and South. Experts acknowledged the need for more effective tracking of progress to ensure global commitments translate into tangible outcomes. As the urgency for action grows, policymakers are called upon to foster an inclusive energy transition that respects the unique contexts of different countries and regions.
Spotlight on Africa: A Call for Investment and Collaboration
In a dedicated segment discussing renewable energy trends in Africa, Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, African Union, highlighted the continent’s significant potential for renewable energy. Despite contributing a mere 3% to global emissions, Africa’s energy poverty remains critical, with over half of its population lacking access to electricity. This shortfall emphasizes the need for investment and infrastructure development to unlock green energy potential. Dr. Abou-Zeid stated, “Africa is endowed with huge potential in renewables… but is still suffering from serious energy poverty.” The conversation underlined that achieving universal access to clean energy is imperative for socio-economic development.
Several ministers from African nations shared their experiences and strategies for enhancing renewable energy investments. The creation of the African Renewable Power Alliance (APRA) aims to consolidate efforts and resources to bolster renewable energy across the continent. This collective action is essential in addressing pressing socioeconomic issues and ensuring that Africa is not left behind in the global energy transition.
Financing: Bridging the Gap
Financing remains a perennial challenge in the transition towards renewable energy. During the discussions, experts emphasized the need for innovative financing models to support developing countries in their energy pursuits. H.E. Lisa Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business for Barbados, stressed that financing mechanisms must be tailored for developing nations to meet their specific energy transition objectives. The prevailing challenges, especially concerning high capital costs, continue to deter investors. Authorities and stakeholders must collaborate to create conducive financing environments that support the growth of renewable energy projects.
The Assembly also showcased initiatives like IRENA’s Energy Transition Accelerator Financing Platform, which aims to mobilize investment for large-scale renewable projects, focusing on developing countries and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). With financial partnerships and international cooperation critical to overcoming barriers, IRENA continues to advocate for strategic investment in sustainable energy projects.
A Unified Approach for Future Success
As the session concluded, there was a clear acknowledgment of the interconnected nature of the global energy challenges. The Assembly called for innovation, collaboration, and concrete actions across all sectors to achieve a sustainable, equitable energy transition. The discussions highlighted that while the path to a renewable energy future is fraught with challenges, the unity of purpose and commitment among nations can lead to transformative solutions.
This year’s IRENA Assembly marked a significant moment in the global energy dialogue, galvanizing leaders and stakeholders to unite in their efforts to accelerate the renewable energy transition. As we move forward, the urgent call to action resonates louder than ever — ensuring that services, investments, and technologies are aligned to foster a sustainable and inclusive energy landscape for future generations.
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