President Ursula von der Leyen, joined by International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol, officially launched the Global Energy Transition Forum today, strengthening global efforts to fast-track renewable energy adoption.
Building on the momentum of COP28, where nations pledged to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030, the Forum aims to drive collaboration among governments, businesses, and investors to meet these ambitious goals.
A Unified Push for Clean Energy
The Forum brings together a diverse coalition of nations, including Brazil, Canada, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Peru, South Africa, the UAE, and the UK. Corporations and investors are also actively participating, working collectively to champion flagship renewable energy projects and secure critical funding to accelerate the clean energy transition.
Addressing Africa’s Energy Investment Disparity
In her keynote speech, President von der Leyen stressed the need to ensure all regions benefit from the renewable energy shift, particularly Africa. Although the continent boasts 60% of the world’s best solar resources, it receives less than 2% of global clean energy investments.
She highlighted Africa’s ambitious goal of increasing its renewable energy capacity fivefold by 2030 and called for a unified effort to unlock investments and promote energy equity across the continent.
Renewables in Africa: A Dinner Dialogue
Later this evening, President von der Leyen will address Africa’s renewable energy challenges during a dinner in Davos, held under the theme “Scaling up Renewables in Africa.” Co-launched with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the campaign seeks to identify actionable strategies to mobilize resources and expand renewable energy adoption in Africa.
This initiative underscores the global commitment to a just and inclusive clean energy transition, ensuring sustainability and energy equity for all regions.
