A group of 200 organizations from around the world has come together to call on world leaders and Parties to the Paris Agreement for a global target to triple renewable energy capacity to at least 11,000GW by 2030. This call was made at COP28, emphasizing the urgent need for a step change in renewable energy growth and energy efficiency to decarbonize the global economy and secure a livable future for all.
Setting a global target for 2030 would send a clear signal to governments, industry, investors, and civil society about the scale and speed at which renewables need to be deployed to limit global warming to a 1.5°C pathway. It builds upon the recognition of the need to transform energy systems rapidly, as agreed upon at COP27.
The shared target of tripling global renewable energy capacity would involve the accelerated build-out of wind power, solar power, hydropower, and geothermal power. This expansion would also create opportunities for technologies like long-duration storage and green hydrogen. The aim is to not only have clean energy systems but also secure ones, forming the foundation of a net-zero global energy system by 2050.
Renewable energy is already making a significant impact, powering homes, cars, and factories with clean electricity, generating green jobs, and attracting investments for economic growth. Tripling this activity would not only reduce the damage caused by climate change but also promote sustainable and climate-resilient growth.
While each country and region will have their own approach, there are universal enablers for accelerating renewable energy deployment. These include committing to ambitious energy transition plans, streamlining permitting schemes, investing in grid action plans, fostering renewable energy partnerships and trade agreements, and maximizing the potential for a nature-positive energy transition.
The organizations emphasize the need for governments and industry to work together, fast-track policy and regulation, mobilize financial and technical resources, and prioritize energy efficiency and electrification. Without a profound course-correction of the energy system, we risk falling short of the necessary actions to limit global warming.
This call for action highlights the urgency and importance of transitioning to renewable energy on a global scale. It is crucial that governments, industry leaders, and the international community come together to make this vision a reality.
Sources:
– COP28 Press Release
– The Paris Agreement