International Day of Clean Energy 2025: UN SG Remarks

“This year, renewables are projected to become the world’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time,” stated the Secretary-General (SG) in his message for the International Day of Clean Energy 2025.

“Meanwhile, their prices keep plummeting. On the International Day of Clean Energy, we celebrate this revolution.”

While this is a significant milestone, the SG emphasised the challenges that lie ahead.

“The end of the fossil fuel age is certain. But governments must ensure that it comes swiftly and fairly,” he stressed.

This is crucial for mitigating the worst impacts of the climate crisis and ensuring access to clean energy for all, thereby lifting millions out of poverty.

“This year offers an unparalleled opportunity for countries to align their climate ambitions with their national energy and development strategies,” the SG highlighted.

All nations have pledged to submit revised national climate action plans in line with the 1.5-degree Celsius temperature goal. These plans must encompass all greenhouse gases and sectors, outline a just transition away from fossil fuels, and contribute to the global target of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030.

The SG emphasised the leadership role of the G20 nations due to their significant capacities and responsibilities. However, he stressed that all countries must contribute more.

“We also need action to get finance flowing to the renewables revolution in emerging markets and developing economies,” the SG acknowledged.

This necessitates increasing the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, addressing the high cost of capital, and taking effective measures to manage debt.

“On the International Day of Clean Energy, let’s commit to an international era of clean energy with speed, justice, and collaboration at its core.”