2024 marks the 20-year anniversary of REN21, the largest global renewable energy network.
REN21 is unique; we are the only global network of governments, industry, academia, science and civil society. A network of 4,000 people strong, REN21 is an influential force, accelerating global action on renewables, building on the values, interests and expertise of many to achieve a thriving, sustainable future for all. It has empowered champions and thought leaders who have been fundamental game changers since the organisation’s creation in 2004. Renewables are now widely acknowledged as the most sustainable, reliable, resilient and affordable energy source.
Other than in Europe, few governments were providing incentive programmes. Information about renewables was either scarce or woefully out-of-date; there was no communication or coordinated action between the relevant stakeholder groups. What was needed was an organisation, that while having no legislative or normative power, could act freely to bring various perspectives together and mobilise international cooperation for the energy transition. This was the vision behind REN21.
With modest means, REN21 tapped into the small community of people active on the forefront of renewables to consolidate existing information, and as that community grew, worked to continuously improve, deepen, and broaden that information. Today that data helps us counter misinformation and build and strengthen the case for renewable energy globally.
Today, renewables are a serious contender to replace fossil fuels and form the backbone of societies and economies. Nearly 200 countries at COP28 agreed to transition away from fossil fuels and triple renewable capacity and double energy efficiency improvements by 2030. Wind and solar combined are generating 41% of the world’s electricity. This progress is testimony to the work of REN21 and its network, which has worked together to transform complex information into compelling, evidence-based narratives to convince decision makers, inspire stakeholders, and mobilise communities.
“But we must continuously ‘beat the drum’ for the needed transformational change to a renewables-based energy system. Efforts for a swift transition to renewable energy must intensify, requiring increased ambition and political mobilisation”, emphasises Rana. Collaboration among governments, industry, academia, and civil society is vital for supportive policies and removing barriers. And we need to constantly demonstrate the benefits of renewables to ensure the necessary societal backing.
“Looking back 20 years, we have achieved a lot despite a challenging and, at times, hostile environment for renewables,” recalls Arthouros. “But the uniqueness of REN21—a diverse, global multi stakeholder network—affords us a resiliency that allows us to adapt and change course, responding to new challenges.”
REN21 is ready for the next phase: to tap into the intelligence, innovation and excitement of the multi-stakeholder community to make renewables the obvious choice for everyone to have a strong and fair economy. It’s time for Renewables Now!
