Clean energy investment is set to double that of fossil fuels – how developing nations can also benefit

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🗞️ Driving the news: Global investment in clean energy is expected to reach nearly $2 trillion this year, almost double the amount going towards fossil fuels
• However, only 15% of this investment is directed towards developing nations, primarily due to high capital costs that hinder renewable energy projects
• This disparity risks leaving emerging economies reliant on fossil fuels, unable to transition to cleaner energy sources

🔭 The context: While countries like the US, China, and those in Europe are accelerating their clean energy investments, many developing nations struggle with financing renewable projects
• The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights that more support is needed to ensure affordable and sustainable energy access in these regions
• Achieving a 'just transition' involves balancing economic growth with efforts to decarbonize, ensuring no one is left behind

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: A just and equitable energy transition is critical to meeting global climate goals and limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels
• Ensuring all countries can develop renewable energy infrastructure is essential for reducing global emissions
• Failing to do so could lead to continued reliance on fossil fuels, exacerbating climate change and its impacts

⏭️ What's next: The World Economic Forum's initiatives emphasize the need for targeted policies, financing solutions, and international cooperation to support equitable clean energy transitions
• Strategies include improving access to technology, providing financial support, and addressing socioeconomic challenges to create inclusive opportunities for all nations

💬 One quote: “More must be done to ensure that investment reaches the places where it is needed most, in particular the developing economies where access to affordable, sustainable and secure energy is severely lacking today,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol

📈 One stat: In 2024, global energy investment is expected to exceed $3 trillion, with $2 trillion dedicated to clean energy technologies and $1 trillion to fossil fuels

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