By Faridat Salifu
According to the Renewable Energy Tracker, which was launched on November 22, 2023 by the Platform of Action for Renewable Energy, countries are not making adequate progress towards achieving 100% renewables in both power and economy-wide sectors within equitable timescales.
Notably, no country has been classified as a “champion” in this area, with overall performance appearing inconsistent across assessed categories.
The Tracker highlighted that certain high-income G20 economies including Japan, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Italy are falling short of their potential.
Conversely, several emerging and developing economies such as Chile, Brazil, and China are leading the equity perspective. Vietnam, Colombia, Jordan, India, Mexico, and Malaysia were also recognized as top performers.
The report revealed that many sub-Saharan African countries are lagging behind, emphasizing the urgent need for significant financial support from OECD countries.
Additionally, the Platform of Action for Renewable Energy positioned the targets and measures outlined in the Tracker as crucial for communities and access to energy, particularly with the approaching COP28.
Julie Ducasse, a Data Specialist from the Climate Action Network, emphasized that the Tracker provides a unique perspective on renewable energy, taking into account factors beyond installed capacities.
Ducasse noted that no nation emerges as a renewable champion, and urged rich nations to fulfill their responsibilities and capabilities.
Stephan Singer, a Senior Global Specialist at CAN International, highlighted the leadership of emerging economies like Chile, China, Brazil, and India, while emphasizing the need for support from wealthier nations in Africa and Asia.
The Tracker was also praised for identifying gaps and impediments in renewable energy development, particularly in vulnerable countries like those in Africa.
Furthermore, it was emphasized that the COP28 must ensure fair finance for renewable energy, with a focus on rapid deployment and just transition to meet the needs of African communities.
Gerry Arrances, Founder and Executive Director of CEED Philippines, pointed out that in the climate-vulnerable Philippines, a 100% renewable energy transition aligned with the 1.5°C target is feasible, refuting the purported need for massive new gas capacities.
Finally, Claire Fyson, Head of Climate Policy at Climate Analytics, underscored the importance of supporting the success of renewables to achieve the key IPCC milestone of peaking emissions before 2025.