2021 will be the year of global action for sustainable energy
UNDP Global Head of Energy Marcel Ahlers expressed confidence that the volume of clean energy will grow in 2021.
“The time has come to make clean energy decisions political investment priorities”, the expert noted, adding that large-scale work is ahead in implementing the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Renewable energy sources are becoming more affordable and “some options are now cheaper than fossil fuels”.
Having pointed out that despite a challenging year, the renewable energy sector has shown stability, Marcel Ahlers encouraged the public and private sectors to work in this area.
“Ambitious commitments are a strong signal and a necessary first step towards achieving zero emissions. Now we need to rely on them”.
Clean energy is also the solution to recover after COVID-19, as it will have a beneficial impact on health care in different countries and provide reliable electricity supplies.
“As COVID-19 vaccines are developed, some of which have to be stored at -70°C, maintaining a stable and reliable cold chain will be critical”, Ahlers reminded.
Furthermore, investing in renewable energy sources can create nearly three times as many jobs as investing in fossil fuels.
For the first time in 40 years, the UN will host an Energy Forum in September this year to foster joint action for sustainable energy. It will bring together representatives from the public and private sectors, civil society and international organizations.
