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A Resounding Call to Action for a Renewable Energy Transition

IRENA Director-General outlines key conditions to achieve a net zero world, which requires structural transformation of energy systems, substantial investment, regional collaboration, and political will. Samson Shih reports.

In his SIEW Opening Keynote Address, which Director-General Francesco La Camera from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) delivered at SIEW 2023 on 23 October, he underscored the urgency to speed up the renewable energy transition. He stressed the need to create conditions that support the structural transformation of energy systems, address technology gaps, and strengthen corresponding policies. Substantiating his viewpoint, he highlighted the growth, opportunities, and benefits offered by the renewable energy sector.

Urgent transition needed

The transition to renewable energy is not merely an option; it is vitally essential to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Mr La Camera highlighted a pivotal moment—COP28, which has introduced a global pledge for the Net Zero target, to be signed by numerous global leaders at the upcoming summit in November. He said: "The energy transition can also be a tool to proactively shape a more equal and inclusive world."

Creating the enabling conditions for the transformation of energy systems

Mr La Camera highlighted the substantial investments needed to transition to an energy system fit for the future. He stressed the need for concerted efforts to address technology gaps and strengthen policies that support the transition. He noted that modernising and expanding physical infrastructure is essential to build a more resilient and flexible energy system capable of accommodating the variable and decentralised nature of renewable sources.

Mr La Camera also emphasised that the expansion of power markets, the hydrogen trade, and material diversification require not just physical power system infrastructure but also robust transportation networks, including roads, ports, and shipping routes, to enable global trade. He commended "Singapore as a leader in adapting and modernising the export and shipping sectors for a renewables-based energy system and trade".

Exploring the opportunities and benefits of a renewable energy transition

Mr La Camera presented the numerous opportunities and benefits of the Energy Transition by highlighting the number of jobs that doubled during this time last year to 13.7 million. In Southeast Asia, regional collaboration for emission reduction, increased local private sector participation, strengthening the industrial and manufacturing ecosystem, skill development, as well as research and development can ensure the availability of a larger workforce for the transition.

He also stressed that a commitment to ending fossil fuel subsidies, investing in infrastructure, and adopting smart grid technology will propel progress towards a net zero world. Additionally, he emphasised the crucial role of political will in providing clear direction and steadfast commitment to delivering on this pledge.

Mr La Camera asserted that renewables and energy efficiency stand as readily available and feasible solutions to mitigate climate change. While the changes required in our energy systems are monumental, he urged that we seize the opportunities and tackle the challenges to collectively shape a sustainable one.