BY SHARON AUSTIN | MAY 30, 2023
Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Francesco La Camera, speaking at the opening of the three-day IRENA-Caribbean Cooperation for Fostering Energy Transition Investments and Finance Conference, at Hilton Barbados Resort, today. (S. Medford/BGIS)
Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Francesco La Camera, says his organisation is “resolute” in its commitment to working with Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS) and partners to deliver transformative solutions.
Mr. La Camera expressed this commitment today, as he addressed the opening of the three-day IRENA-Caribbean Cooperation for Fostering Energy Transition Investments and Finance Conference, at Hilton Barbados Resort.
The Director General told his audience: “Together, we can empower the region to fight the climate crisis, bolster economic growth and sustainable development and secure a better future for its citizens.”
He said IRENA was responding to SIDS’ requests to move beyond formulation and towards implementation, prioritising adaptation and resilience in the face of climate impacts.
“In this regard, IRENA and the Government of the United Arab Emirates are mobilising support towards a USD 1 billion COP28 initiative on Empowering Lives and Livelihoods – Renewables for Climate Action, through deploying sustainable, efficient and affordable renewable energy solutions to energise agri-food and health value chains, particularly in SIDS and LDCs (Least Developed Countries),” he stated.
Mr. La Camera noted that SIDS faced a pressing race against climate change. He said the world was off track, and this reality posed a disproportionate threat to the lives and livelihoods of the most vulnerable.
“It is our responsibility to secure a livable and sustainable future for SIDS, by significantly accelerating the pace and scale of the energy transition during this decade,” he indicated.
