On January 26th, the UN-designated International Day of Clean Energy, the global community celebrated advancements in the transition to clean energy for the benefit of people and the planet. Forecasts indicate that renewable energy sources will surpass fossil fuels as the world's largest source of electricity generation this year, with prices continuing to decline.

"As we mark International Day of Clean Energy, we celebrate this revolution. But we also recognize that challenges lie ahead", said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in a message. "There is no doubt that the era of fossil fuels is ending. But governments must create the conditions for this to happen swiftly and equitably". The UN emphasizes the interconnectedness of clean energy, socio-economic development, and environmental sustainability.

In the lead-up to International Day of Clean Energy, the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (REC) highlighted the contributions of countries in the region towards sustainable development. These nations continue to reaffirm their commitment to promoting sustainable energy and combating climate change. Among the regional initiatives in the field of sustainable energy is REC's Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Program, which supports Central Asian countries in adopting low-carbon development approaches, improving energy efficiency, and utilizing renewable energy sources. This program assists national policymakers in developing effective strategies to adapt to climate change and mitigate its impacts. It also fosters dialogue among key sectors and organizations, including international partners.

International Day of Clean Energy serves as a global call to raise awareness and mobilize action for a just and inclusive transition to clean energy.

Coincidentally, January 26th also marks the founding of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), a global intergovernmental organization established in 2009 to support countries in their energy transitions. IRENA serves as a platform for international cooperation and provides data and analysis on technologies, innovation, policy, finance, and investment in clean energy.

ORIENT