COP 30 Side Event | Renewables for Development: Powering energy security, prosperity, and resilient economies

Amid geopolitical instability, climate risks, and persistent inequality, renewable energy offers a pathway to build fair and resilient economies. Global electricity demand is projected to grow by around 4% between 2025 and 2027, with developing economies accounting for 85% of this additional demand. At the same time, 700 million people worldwide still lack access to electricity and over 2 billion to clean cooking. The rapidly falling costs of renewable energy and battery storage present a historic opportunity to meet rising demand for clean energy. New policy approaches can improve reliability and affordability, while also advancing energy security and enabling inclusive economic development.

This COP 30 side event will build on global insights into renewables-based economies, anchored in the perspective that integrated, renewables-based energy systems are essential for energy security and sustainable development.

The panel discussion will explore how renewable energy can serve as the backbone of energy security. For developing countries, renewables offer a pathway that is less resource dependent, more adaptable to external shocks, and aligned with economic and social goals.

Speakers will examine the enabling conditions needed for renewables to deliver energy security, resilient development, and stable economic benefits. Key themes will include finance and investment, system integration, job creation, and integrated planning for reliable renewables-based development.

The session will highlight concrete solutions, including demand-driven renewable energy approaches, such as India’s Firm and Dispatchable Renewable Energy model, to demonstrate how renewables can strengthen energy supply and advance prosperity for people and communities.

Agenda

Opening Remarks

Rana Adib, Executive Director, REN21

Panel Discussion

• Jonas Kuehl, Senior Policy Advisor, International Institute for Sustainable Development
• Ramon Mendez Galain, Former Energy Ministry, Uruguay
• Lauren Hermanus, Founding Director,  Southern Transitions
• Shantanu Srivastava, Research Lead, Sustainable Finance & Climate Risk, South Asia, Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis
• Clovis Zapata, Country Representative for Brazil, United Nations Industrial Development Organization

Q&A

Closing Remarks