Why in news?
The 16th session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly was held in Abu Dhabi from 10–12 January 2026. The theme, “Powering Humanity: Renewable Energy for Shared Prosperity,” urged nations to triple renewable‑energy capacity by 2030. India participated and highlighted its achievements and investment opportunities in clean energy.
Background
IRENA was founded in 2009 as an intergovernmental organisation to support countries in the transition to sustainable energy. It now has 171 members (170 countries and the European Union) and serves as a global platform for cooperation, policy advice and technology knowledge. The Assembly, its supreme decision‑making body, meets annually to set priorities and review progress, while a 21‑member Council provides guidance between sessions.
Highlights of the 16th Assembly
- Global cooperation: Delegates agreed on the need to triple renewable‑energy capacity by 2030 to meet climate goals and to ensure universal energy access. Discussions stressed affordable finance and technology transfer to developing nations.
- India’s commitments: India reported that non‑fossil sources now account for about half of its installed electricity capacity. The country aims to add 500 gigawatts of non‑fossil capacity by 2030 and achieve net‑zero emissions by 2070. It offered investment opportunities of around USD 300 billion in the renewable‑energy sector by 2030 and called for inclusive international cooperation based on the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“the world is one family”).
- Governance and membership: The Assembly welcomed new member states and reviewed the report of the 21‑member Council. IRENA continues to provide member countries with capacity‑building, technology roadmaps and statistics on renewable‑energy deployment.
Significance
- Driving the energy transition: IRENA’s Assembly sets the agenda for accelerating renewable‑energy adoption worldwide. Its call to triple capacity aligns with pledges made at recent climate summits and reinforces the urgency of shifting away from fossil fuels.
- India as a clean‑energy leader: India’s progress and investment pledge showcase its role as a major renewable‑energy market and technology hub. Achieving the stated targets could create jobs, reduce emissions and enhance energy security.
- Inclusive development: By emphasising affordable finance and technology transfer, the Assembly recognised that poorer countries need support to join the energy transition, ensuring that sustainable growth is shared globally.
Source: PIB
