Spotlight on Ramón Mendez Galain: A Climate Champion Leading Uruguay’s Energy Transformation

The GRC Team interviewed Ramón Méndez Galain, former National Director of Energy for Uruguay, as part of the Renewables Diplomacy Initiative during the 16th General Assembly of IRENA. Méndez, a key architect of Uruguay’s renewable energy transformation, played a crucial role in achieving 98% renewable electricity and attracting $5 billion in investments. In our conversation, we explored the key factors behind Uruguay’s success, strategies for attracting investment in renewables, and the role of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as catalysts for sustainable development. Méndez also shared insights on navigating political shifts and ensuring policy continuity in energy transitions, offering valuable lessons for Latin America and the Global South.