Energy Transition
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The energy transition is a pathway toward transformation of the global energy sector from fossil-based to zero-carbon by the second half of this century. At its heart is the need to reduce energy-related CO2 emissions to limit climate change. Decarbonisation of the energy sector requires urgent action on a global scale, and while a global energy transition is underway, further action is needed to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. Renewable energy and energy efficiency measures can potentially achieve 90% of the required carbon reductions.
The energy transition will be enabled by information technology, smart technology, policy frameworks and market instruments. IRENA has assessed decarbonisation pathways through REmap, and is equipped to support and accelerate the energy transition by providing the necessary knowledge, tools and support to Member countries as they increase the share of renewable energy in their power sectors.
Our energy transition work is built around three pillars:
Featured
Global Energy Transformation: A Roadmap to 2050
Renewable energy needs to be scaled up at least six times faster for the world to start meeting key decarbonisation and climate mitigation goals.
Among the report's key findings:
- Based on current plans and policies, the “carbon budget” to keep global warming below 2oC would run out in under 20 years;
- Renewables could make up two-thirds of the energy mix by 2050, with significantly improved energy intensity, if countries adopt the right policies without delay;
- This massive transformation would generate over 11 million additional jobs in the energy sector by 2050.
Yet the envisaged energy transformation cannot happen by itself. IRENA’s report identifies focus areas where policy and decision makers need to act.
- April 2018
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- Energy Transition
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- English, Arabic
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