Global tensions reveal fragility of fossil fuel-based energy systems: IRENA chief
Baku, May 13, AZERTAC
The global energy crisis linked to tensions in the Middle East is exposing the vulnerabilities of fossil fuel-based energy systems and accelerating the shift toward renewables, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Director General Francesco La Camera said on Thursday, according to Anadolu Agency.
IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera told Anadolu on the sidelines of the 15th Turkish Wind Energy Congress on Thursday that ongoing geopolitical tensions are reinforcing the need for a faster shift toward renewable energy systems.
Describing the current crisis in the Middle East as a sign of the vulnerabilities of centralized fossil fuel-based energy systems, La Camera said, "I believe there will be no more crises because we will move faster toward a new energy system.
"This system will necessarily be largely based on renewable energy, complemented by the sustainable use of biomass and especially green hydrogen," he explained.
La Camera noted that the energy transition is already underway, with recently released data showing that the process is accelerating.
Emphasizing the need for greater focus on electricity grids in the global renewable energy transition, La Camera said IRENA had already made recommendations five years ago regarding the necessity of grid modernization.
Pointing out that countries are taking measures and making investments in response to the seriousness of the situation, La Camera said, "Everyone has understood that grid modernization is critical. We need a system that allows the exchange of molecules and electrons."
"Therefore, we need interconnections, flexibility and the ability to move energy where it is needed. The system also needs balancing because a decentralized renewable energy system may be good for the environment, energy security and the economy, but it requires careful management," he added.
La Camera also said artificial intelligence (AI) would play an important role in managing energy grids and could become a tool to accelerate the energy transition.
He explained that AI could provide forecasts by combining different types of data, especially meteorological observations.
In this way, electricity can be routed more rapidly and efficiently to where it is needed.
He also noted that AI can help lower energy demand by boosting efficiency in industrial processes and supporting the broader energy transition.
La Camera stated that as 2030 approaches, they are focusing on the roadmap for phasing out fossil fuels, while also stressing the need to consider the 2050 perspective in the energy transition.
Highlighting significant progress toward the goals of tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency, La Camera continued:
"We have almost achieved these goals, but we also need to plan the period from 2030 to 2050. As IRENA, we will present the results of our new analyses during the Copenhagen Ministerial meeting, where the COP31 presidency will also be present."
He also explained that renewable energy investments are already growing strongly in the market, supported by global trends. However, he argued that more action is still needed to meet the Paris Agreement targets, and countries must act with a shared vision and strong commitment.
La Camera also stressed that people expect to see real, on-the-ground results from the energy transition.
He also noted that IRENA works closely with Türkiye, highlighting its leading role in geothermal energy and its support to neighboring countries in renewable energy development.
He added that IRENA has launched initiatives such as the Central Asia program and will hold an investment forum in Baku during Baku Energy Week.
The agency continues to support least developed countries and small island states through energy planning and financing platforms, aiming to connect technical knowledge with real-world implementation so that energy transition efforts deliver visible results.
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