QAZAQ GREEN. In a world grappling with the impacts of climate change, clean energy has emerged as a critical tool for reducing emissions and addressing the challenge of providing reliable energy access. Currently, around 685 million people worldwide still live without electricity, with more than 80 percent of them residing in sub-Saharan Africa. This stark reality was highlighted by the United Nations on the occasion of the International Day of Clean Energy, celebrated annually on January 26.

The link between clean energy, socio-economic progress, and environmental sustainability is pivotal in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable communities globally.

For the first time in history, renewable energy is expected to become the world’s largest source of electricity generation in 2025, as its costs continue to decline at a rapid pace.

“As we mark the International Day of Clean Energy, we celebrate this historic transformation. Yet, we must also confront the challenges that lie ahead,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “The age of fossil fuels is undoubtedly nearing its end. Governments must act decisively to accelerate this transition—and ensure it is done fairly.”

Guterres emphasized that scaling up clean energy is crucial for mitigating the worst impacts of the climate crisis and ensuring universal access to affordable, sustainable energy, lifting millions out of poverty.

“This year presents an unprecedented opportunity for nations to align their climate goals with national energy and development strategies,” Guterres said. He reminded governments of their commitment to developing national action plans that keep global temperature rise within 1.5°C.

Countries must implement strategies to address all greenhouse gases and sectors while establishing fair and effective plans to phase out fossil fuels. Guterres also reiterated the global goal of tripling renewable energy production by 2030.

He specifically called on G20 nations, noting their significant potential and responsibility to lead this transition.

To enable the renewable energy revolution in developing and emerging markets, Guterres stressed the need to secure adequate funding. Key measures include increasing the lending capacity of multilateral development banks, addressing high capital costs, and providing effective solutions to alleviate debt burdens.

“On this International Day of Clean Energy, let us reaffirm our commitment to a global energy transition guided by speed, fairness, and collaboration,” the UN Secretary-General concluded.