Countries are not on track to achieve 100% renewables (across both power and economy-wide sectors) based on equitable timescales.
This forms one of the keys results of the Renewable Energy Tracker that was launched on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, by the Platform of Action for Renewable Energy.
At a press briefing to launch the Tracker ahead of COP28, the group disclosed that no country is in the “champion” categories, apparently because countries are performing inconsistently across assessed categories.
Revealing that several high-income G20 economies like Japan, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Korea and Italy are not living up to their capabilities, the Tracker likewise disclosed that several emerging and developing economies are doing better than advanced economies from an equity perspective with Chile, Brazil, and China being the top three performers. Additionally: Vietnam, Colombia, Jordan, India, Mexico, and Malaysia are all in the top 20.
It was also revealed that many sub-Saharan African countries fall into the slow-starter group, even when considering equity-based metrics, demonstrating the strong need for financial support at scale from OECD countries.
The Platform of Action for Renewable Energy at the briefing positioned what the targets and measures mean for communities, and how this relates to access to energy.
“Energy is set to be a key issue at COP28; therefore, the tracker can be used as a key tool to compare countries’ progress and build regional pressure,” submitted the group.
Julie Ducasse, Data Specialist, Climate Action Network, said: “Our tracker provides a unique view on renewable energy, going beyond usual assessments based mainly on installed capacities. By considering additional factors like access to energy and investments, we find that no nation emerges as a renewable champion. Several rich nations, among the biggest emitters, are simply not living up to their responsibilities and capabilities. The COP28 will be a decisive moment for countries to commit to a rapid, just and equitable roll out of renewables.”
Stephan Singer, Senior global specialist at CAN international, said: “Based on equity criteria like per capita deployment and investments per GDP, some emerging economies take the lead on renewable energy expansion, notably Chile, China, Brazil and India. Additionally, many other poorer developing countries in Africa and Asia need significant support from the rich nations for an ambitious move to renewables. The Dubai COP must deliver on financing.”
Lorraine Chiponda, Co-facilitator, Africa Movement Building Spaces & Don’t Gas Africa, said: “The Renewable Energy Tracker identifies the gaps and impediments on renewable energy development in vulnerable countries particularly in Africa and access to fair finance is one of the impediments identified, COP28 should deliver on renewable energy finance. This should be rapidly deployed at a rate that is commensurate with the climate emergency and through a just transition that will speak to African communities’ needs particularly ensuring energy security and sovereignty.”
Gerry Arrances, Founder and Executive Director, CEED Philippines, said: “In climate-vulnerable Philippines, a new report finds that a 100% renewable energy transition aligned to 1.5°C is feasible, with phase-out of oil, coal, and gas possible by no later than 2025, 2035, and 2040, respectively. As we head to COP, the RE tracker is an important tool asserting that a full and just transition to renewables in Asia and the world can happen with haste.
“This rejects the supposed need for massive new gas capacities purported by fossil fuel companies and government supporters alike – a false notion which is already plunging many Asian countries to volatile prices and severe energy insecurity. The RE tracker also offers a welcome illustration of where finance and resources owed by historical polluters to developing nations should go to: to 100% renewable energy for all.”
Claire Fyson, Head of Climate Policy, Climate Analytics, said: “Renewables are our best bet for peaking emissions before 2025 – a key IPCC milestone on the road to 1.5°C. Solar and wind in particular are rolling out at record pace, yet the Renewables Tracker shows many countries are falling behind. Backing the success of renewables now – country by country and on the global stage – could tip the scales in our favour and send emissions falling from this year – making 2023 the year of peak emissions.”
