IRENA Urges Central Asia to Lead the Green Energy Revolution
Key Ideas
- IRENA emphasizes the importance of accelerating the energy transition in Central Asia to achieve climate and sustainability goals.
- Francesco La Camera highlights the region's vulnerability to climate change and the need for increased renewable energy capacity.
- Key areas of action include infrastructure development, regulatory framework reform, and institutional strengthening to attract investments for sustainable growth.
- The launch of the APRECA initiative aims to scale up investments, knowledge sharing, and economic transformation in Central Asia through renewable energy development.
At the International Climate Forum in Samarkand, Francesco La Camera from IRENA stressed the urgency for Central Asia to lead the energy transition towards renewable sources. Despite progress, the region faces climate vulnerabilities like glacier melt and water stress. La Camera called for increased investments and regional cooperation, pointing out the need for infrastructure development and regulatory reform. He highlighted the APRECA initiative, a partnership to boost renewable energy investments in the region. Additionally, IRENA will release a report on green hydrogen development in Central Asia and the South Caucasus. La Camera expressed confidence in Central Asia's potential to become a green energy hub, emphasizing the creation of green hydrogen, sustainable mineral development, and job opportunities. Overall, the sentiment is positive, promoting a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for Central Asia.