goals
Global renewable energy goal falls short of 2030 target, says IEA
The world is not on track to triple renewable electricity generation by 2030, an important step in transitioning from fossil fuels, but progress is accelerating.
In short:
- The International Energy Agency (IEA) found that current policies would only roughly double global renewable generation by 2030.
- Solar power constitutes about half of the planned capacity, while wind accounts for a quarter.
- Governments must focus on upgrading electricity grids, which are currently hindering progress.
Key quote:
“The tripling target is ambitious but achievable – though only if governments quickly turn promises into plans of action.”
— Fatih Birol, executive director of the IEA
Why this matters:
Meeting renewable energy targets is essential to limiting global temperature rise to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. Achieving these goals requires immediate government action and infrastructure improvements.
Related EHN coverage:
North Sea countries lag in aligning drilling policies with climate goals
None of the major North Sea oil and gas producers are set to halt drilling early enough to meet the global heating target, a stark discrepancy highlighted by a recent report.
In short:
- The UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark have not matched their fossil fuel extraction policies with their climate commitments.
- Norway and the UK are notably behind, with aggressive new oil and gas exploration that contradicts the Paris climate agreement's objectives.
- Denmark shows the most promise by setting a deadline for ending oil and gas production and leading international efforts to phase out fossil fuels.
Key quote:
"Failure to address these issues not only undermines international climate goals but also jeopardizes the liveability of our planet."
— Silje Ask Lundberg, Oil Change International
Why this matters:
North Sea oil drilling has been a significant part of Europe's energy strategy for decades, but it increasingly finds itself at the crossroads of economic interests and environmental concerns. As the world moves towards a more sustainable and low-carbon energy future, the role of North Sea oil drilling continues to evolve. The decisions made by countries in the region will not only impact their own energy landscapes and economies but also contribute to global efforts to address climate change.
“Code Red” for climate means reducing US oil and gas production: Derrick Z. Jackson.
Illinois advances access to chargers to meet EV goals
As of May, Illinois has met 7 percent of its goal to get 1 million EVs on the road by 2030. While the state has made significant efforts in recent years to facilitate the transition away from gas-powered to all-electric vehicles, further actions are necessary to meet its goal and reduce tailpipe emissions.
Zoning slows efforts to cut transportation pollution
Connecticut won’t achieve its 2030 climate targets if it leans on electric vehicles alone to lower transportation emissions. The state also needs to convince residents to drive less.
Germany sets the new standard for cheap, national mass transit
Climate change law sets ambitious goals, but faces opposition from energy and finance ministries
Climate bill is far-reaching for Israeli energy sector, but is necessary to meet the requirements from all developed countries before the next UN climate summit in November.
The US needs 1m more electricians to hit climate goals. Can it recruit more women?
Women face barriers in the sector, including harassment and exclusionary unions, but they would help resolve a crucial labor shortage and could also help close the gender wage gap.
