Source: News on Air
Subject: International Organisation
Context: The 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) concluded in Abu Dhabi, calling for an accelerated global shift towards renewables.
About IRENA:
What is IRENA?
- The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is the world’s only intergovernmental organisation dedicated exclusively to renewable energy.
- It acts as the global hub for policy advice, technology cooperation, data, and investment support in clean energy.
Founded: 26 January 2009, Bonn (Germany)
- Statute entered into force: 8 July 2010
- India is a founding member of IRENA.
Headquarters: Masdar City, Abu Dhabi (UAE)
History:
- 1981 (Nairobi, UN Conference): First proposal for a renewable energy agency.
- 2004–2008: Renewed global push through Bonn, Beijing and Johannesburg summits.
- 2008 (Berlin & Madrid): Drafting of IRENA Statute and institutional framework.
- 2009 (Bonn): IRENA formally established by 75 founding states.
- 2011: IRENA became fully operational as a permanent international agency.
Aim of IRENA:
- To accelerate the global energy transition by promoting the widespread, sustainable and equitable use of renewable energy for:
- Climate change mitigation
- Energy access
- Energy security
- Green economic growth
Key Functions:
- Policy guidance: Advises countries on renewable energy policies, regulations and roadmaps.
- Data & analysis: Provides global datasets on renewables, costs, investments and energy transitions.
- Technology & innovation support: Promotes solar, wind, bioenergy, geothermal, hydro and ocean energy.
- Capacity building: Trains governments, utilities and institutions in clean-energy planning.
- Investment facilitation: Helps mobilise green finance for renewable projects, especially in developing countries.
- Global cooperation: Serves as the main multilateral platform for renewable energy diplomacy.
Significance of IRENA:
- Anchors the global clean-energy transition, especially for developing countries.
- Supports achievement of SDG-7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and Net-Zero targets.
- Reduces dependence on fossil fuels, strengthening energy security and climate resilience.
