In a significant move towards combating climate change and accelerating the transition to renewable energy, the President of COP28, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, has entrusted the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) with the responsibility of creating a unique annual report series.
This initiative is aimed at closely monitoring the progress and offering strategic recommendations to meet the ambitious energy goals set forth in the UAE Consensus during COP28. The UAE Consensus, a landmark agreement reached at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), sets a bold target for the United Arab Emirates to triple its renewable power capacity and double its energy efficiency by the year 2030.
These objectives are integral to the global strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure that the world stays within the critical 1.5°C temperature rise threshold. The consensus also emphasizes a just, orderly, and equitable transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems, with the ultimate goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“Tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030 are central parts of the UAE Consensus, agreed by all 198 Parties at COP28. IRENA’s annual report will track and monitor global progress against these targets, which are crucial in ensuring we turn agreement into action and keep 1.5C within reach.”
“The energy transition offers the greatest opportunity for social and economic development since the industrial revolution, and in IRENA we have a partner who understands both the need to transition to renewable energy and the huge economic opportunity this offers.”
Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President
The new annual tracking report, to be spearheaded by IRENA, will serve as a comprehensive resource for stakeholders, policymakers, and the public. It will provide up-to-date data and projections on the progress towards the UAE’s renewable energy and energy efficiency targets.
This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in informing future discussions and negotiations at COP engagements, ensuring that the international community remains aligned and committed to meeting the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
The establishment of this special annual report series underscores the UAE’s leadership in promoting sustainable development and renewable energy. By leveraging the expertise and resources of IRENA, the UAE aims to set a global standard for transparency and accountability in the pursuit of renewable energy goals. This move not only strengthens the UAE’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also enhances its position as a leader in the global fight against climate change.
The impacts of this initiative are far-reaching. By providing a clear and consistent framework for monitoring progress, the UAE and IRENA are setting the stage for increased investment in renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency measures.
This could lead to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the global effort to limit the rise in global temperatures. Furthermore, the annual reports will likely inspire other nations to adopt similar strategies, fostering a more collaborative and effective approach to tackling climate change.
“I confirm the unwavering commitment by IRENA to the successful implementation of the historic UAE Consensus. Given the centrality of the Agency’s World Energy Transitions Outlook 1.5°C Pathway to the tripling of renewables and doubling of energy efficiency goals, IRENA is best placed to monitor progress towards these vital outcomes and ensure commitments are transformed into firm action and progress on the ground.”
Francesco La Camera, IRENA Director-General
The tasking of IRENA with the creation of this special annual report series marks a pivotal moment in the UAE’s journey towards a sustainable and resilient future. It represents a commitment to transparency, accountability, and collective action in the face of the climate crisis, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
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