International Day of Clean Energy 2025 Observed on 26th January

The International Day of Clean Energy on 26 January was declared by the General Assembly  as a call to raise awareness and mobilize action for a just and inclusive transition to clean energy for the benefit of people and the planet. Energy lies at the heart of a dual challenge facing humanity today: ensuring no one is left behind while protecting our planet for future generations. Clean energy offers a critical solution to this challenge, addressing socio-economic inequalities and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.

The Role of Clean Energy in Tackling Global Issues

Energy Poverty: A Barrier to Socio-Economic Development

Despite technological advancements, 685 million people worldwide still live without access to electricity, with more than 80% of them residing in Sub-Saharan Africa. The lack of reliable power negatively impacts essential aspects of life such as:

• Education: Schools cannot operate efficiently without electricity for lighting, computers, and communication.
• Healthcare: Clinics without electricity cannot store vaccines or perform life-saving operations.
• Economic Opportunities: Small businesses and industries require energy to grow and create employment opportunities.

Moreover, reliance on polluting and unsafe energy sources like burning wood, charcoal, or dung for cooking perpetuates poverty and exposes families to hazardous indoor air pollution, leading to health risks such as respiratory diseases. If no decisive action is taken, it is estimated that by 2030, 1.8 billion people will still rely on unsafe cooking practices, further hindering development.

Climate Change: The Need for a Global Energy Transition

Energy production, primarily from fossil fuels, is responsible for a significant share of the greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change. To combat rising global temperatures and their catastrophic consequences, a transition to clean, renewable energy sources is crucial. Renewable energy not only reduces emissions but also promotes sustainable and inclusive growth.

Clean Energy: A Solution for People and the Planet

Benefits of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy sources—derived from the sun, wind, water, waste, and the Earth’s heat—are replenished naturally and emit minimal greenhouse gases. They offer a range of benefits, including:

1. Environmental Sustainability: Reduces pollution and conserves biodiversity.
2. Economic Growth: Creates green jobs and encourages innovation.
3. Energy Accessibility: Ensures modern energy solutions for underprivileged and remote areas.

Energy Efficiency: Doing More with Less

Energy efficiency plays a pivotal role in reducing energy consumption while maintaining the same level of output. For instance, efficient technologies in transportation, building insulation, lighting systems, and appliances can lower energy costs, decrease carbon emissions, and expand access to affordable energy solutions.

Progress and Challenges in Achieving SDG7

The Goal of Universal Access by 2030

Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) aims to provide affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all by 2030. While some progress has been made in expanding energy access globally, the recent trend is concerning. In 2022, the number of people without electricity increased by 10 million, primarily due to population growth outpacing efforts in energy expansion.

The Path Forward

To meet SDG7 targets, governments, organizations, and individuals must collaborate to:

• Scale up investments in renewable energy infrastructure.
• Promote policies encouraging innovation and clean energy adoption.
• Provide financial and technical support to developing countries.

Clean Energy and Climate Action

Reducing Reliance on Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and gas, contribute significantly to global warming. A complete transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources is essential to limit climate change. This involves phasing out coal-fired power plants, discouraging new fossil fuel exploration, and redirecting investments toward clean energy technologies.

The Power of Renewables

Renewable energy technologies have the potential to transform global energy systems. For instance:

• Solar Energy: Harnessing the sun’s abundant power through photovoltaic panels.
• Wind Energy: Generating electricity from wind turbines.
• Hydropower: Using water resources to produce clean energy.
• Geothermal Energy: Tapping into the Earth’s heat for power and heating.

The adoption of these technologies will reduce global carbon footprints while ensuring a sustainable energy future.

Observing the International Day of Clean Energy

A Call to Action

The International Day of Clean Energy, observed annually on 26 January, serves as a global reminder of the importance of clean energy for people and the planet. The United Nations General Assembly declared this day (resolution A/77/327) to raise awareness and mobilize action for an inclusive and just energy transition.

The Role of IRENA

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), established on 26 January 2009, supports countries in their energy transitions. As a global intergovernmental organization, IRENA provides:

• Comprehensive data on renewable energy technologies.
• Policy recommendations to accelerate clean energy adoption.
• Platforms for international cooperation on energy innovation and investment.