COP28 and IRENA Partner to Drive UAE Consensus Implementation; Unveil Annual Report Series for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Targets by 2030
On 13 May, COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber officially tasked the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) with creating a series of special annual reports to monitor progress and make recommendations for achieving the UAE Consensus targets set at COP28.
The mandate to triple renewable power capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030 underscores critical elements of the global effort to combat climate change and maintain the 1.5°C target. The UAE Consensus advocates for a shift away from fossil fuels in energy systems, aiming for 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,” stated COP28 President Dr. Sultan Al Jaber. He emphasized the importance of IRENA’s annual report in tracking global progress toward these targets, essential for translating agreements into actions and keeping the 1.5°C goal achievable.
IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera affirmed IRENA’s commitment to implementing the UAE Consensus: “I confirm the unwavering commitment by IRENA to the successful implementation of the historic UAE Consensus.” Given the significance of IRENA’s World Energy Transitions Outlook 1.5°C Pathway in achieving renewable energy and energy efficiency goals, La Camera highlighted IRENA’s role in monitoring progress and ensuring commitments translate into concrete actions.
The annual tracking report, to be led, developed, and published by IRENA as the official Custodian Agency, will provide the latest data and projections on renewable energy and energy efficiency targets each year from 2024 to 2030. This report will offer timely insights for future COP engagements.