REN21 has launched the Renewable Energy Champions Initiative—a bold new effort to fast-track the shift to resilient, renewables-based economies. Announced at the Caribbean Renewable Energy Forum in Miami, the initiative connects national decision makers with a network of former ministers and senior officials from the Global South who have already led successful energy transitions.
These champions know what it takes—and they’re stepping up to help others do the same.
Accelerating the Shift to Renewable Economies
These are leaders who’ve faced tough choices, overcome political and technical barriers, and delivered real change. Through peer-to-peer engagement—bilateral meetings, closed-door sessions and strategic dialogues—they offer direct support to governments navigating the path to renewables. Their approach is grounded in trust, shared experience and a commitment to building strong economies with renewables.
The Champions bring compelling stories, policy insights and practical tools to inspire action. They connect countries with critical networks—spanning finance, industry, civil society and international institutions to help unlock investment, build partnerships and move from ambition to implementation.
In today’s energy security era, they are a strategic asset for any government ready to act.
Featuring leaders like James Fletcher of Saint Lucia and Ramón Méndez Galain of Uruguay, the initiative is expanding to include more champions from across the Global South. Each brings the credibility of experience and the power of example. Together, they’re helping countries go further, faster, and with confidence.
For more information, see links below:
To connect with a Champion, contact: secretariat@ren21.net.
