(Source: 123RF)
The global transition to renewable energy is advancing rapidly, but geopolitical challenges continue to shape its trajectory. On February 26, 2025, the Global Renewables Congress convened Parliamentarians, experts, and RE stakeholders in a webinar to explore how renewable energy policies can remain resilient and effective in an evolving global landscape.
This session featured insights from leaders across various regions, emphasising bold policies, local action, and grassroots engagement as key to sustaining progress.
Germany and the EU: Prosumers Driving Change
Bärbel Höhn, Chair of the Global Renewables Congress, opened the session by highlighting the strong momentum in Germany and the EU in expanding renewable energy capacity. She applauded the role of “prosumers” – individuals who both produce and consume renewable energy – in driving household and community-level adoption. Her remarks underscored the necessity of sustained investment, international collaboration, and public participation to ensure long-term energy stability.
Canada: The Case for Energy Independence
Senator Rosa Galvez of Canada provided a critical perspective on the current geopolitical risks influencing energy. She expressed concerns over political influences, particularly referencing the current US-administration’s stance on Canada. Sen. Galvez strongly advocated for resilient, self-sufficient renewable energy systems that remain independent of global power struggles. She reinforced that renewables are cost-effective, disinflationary, cleaner, and safer, making them a strategic asset for economic stability and security.
U.S. Subnational Leadership: A Catalyst for Change
Representative Jamie Long from Minnesota, USA emphasised the power of subnational policies in leading the renewable energy transition. He shared examples of how state-level initiatives have driven significant progress even amid national political uncertainty. His remarks reinforced the idea that states, regions, and local governments can be key drivers of climate policy, shaping the path toward a sustainable energy future.
Colombia: Hydropower and Ecosystem Interconnectivity
Hon. Juan Carlos Losada from Colombia provided valuable insights into the country’s hydropower sector and its interconnection with regional water cycles. He addressed sustainability concerns in the Amazon, stressing the importance of balancing energy production with environmental conservation. His remarks highlighted the critical need for climate policies that integrate regional ecosystem management to ensure a truly sustainable transition.
Nepal: Tailored Energy Strategies
Hon. Madhav Sapkota from Nepal spoke about the country’s renewable energy transition, recalling Nepal’s reliance on hydropower and the importance of adapting policies to regional infrastructure needs.
Nigeria: Local to National
Hon. Solomon Maren from Nigeria discussed the role of subnational regional parliaments and communities in driving Nigeria’s transition to sustainable energy solutions. Their insights reinforced that energy policies must be tailored to local conditions to maximise effectiveness.
Socio-Economic Benefits: The Key to Grassroots Support
Diala Hawila from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) underscored the socio-economic benefits of renewable energy, focusing on the need for an ‘election-proof’ approach to energy policy. By framing renewable energy as an economic opportunity rather than just an environmental necessity, policymakers can build stronger public and political support.
Local Benefits Beyond Economics
Laura Williams from REN21 argued for the additional benefits of renewable energy at the city and local levels. She pointed out that renewables not only drive economic prosperity but also improve air quality, enhance access to local services, and help address energy poverty.
Key Takeaways: The Path Forward
- The socio-economic benefits of renewables are important to build a compelling narrative and to encourage more public support for faster RE uptake.
- Subnational policies to maintain progress despite national political fluctuations.
- Parliamentarians have an opportunity to create and enact legislative frameworks that enable technological innovation, accessible financing, and rapid deployment of renewable energy.
- Self-sufficient renewable energy systems that reduce reliance on external influence are essential to creating strong energy independence and security.
