FNC calls for faster clean energy transition at IRENA Forum

Sharjah 24 – WAM: Dr Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Federal National Council (FNC) and Deputy Chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, stressed the urgent need for global parliaments to respond to the rapid climate changes and growing environmental challenges. Speaking at the IRENA Legislators Forum 2025 in Abu Dhabi, Al Nuaimi highlighted the pressing need for immediate legislative action.

Addressing the impact of climate change

Al Nuaimi pointed out that 2024 recorded the highest-ever global temperatures, underscoring the urgent necessity of fulfilling the Paris Climate Agreement’s objectives. He noted that the outcomes of the global stocktake at COP28 revealed a significant gap between current commitments and the requirements needed to meet climate goals. He emphasized that COP28 provided an unprecedented roadmap for the clean energy transition and supported financial frameworks for these efforts.

Legislators' role in clean energy transition

Al Nuaimi called on legislators worldwide to play a central role in creating laws that incentivize investments in renewable energy and strengthen international partnerships. He urged parliamentarians to leverage the current political momentum to drive the clean energy transition, ensuring a sustainable future for coming generations.

Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi's insights on UAE’s renewable energy transition

During the session on "Legislative Pathways for Aligning Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)," Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi, Member of the Federal National Council, shared the UAE's experience in transitioning to renewable energy. She explained that the UAE’s success is based on an ambitious vision, integrated strategies, and supportive legislative reforms.

UAE's energy strategy 2050 and future legislative plans

Al Suwaidi highlighted the UAE's goal under its Energy Strategy 2050 to ensure that clean energy accounts for 50 percent of the national energy mix. She also discussed the Federal National Council’s role in promoting environmental governance, supporting sustainability policies, and fulfilling COP28 commitments. Additionally, she outlined future legislation the UAE is working on, including green hydrogen production, a regional carbon trading platform, and a national fund for climate innovation.

International cooperation for clean energy legislation

Al Suwaidi emphasised the importance of international parliamentary cooperation for achieving a successful and sustainable energy transition, particularly in advancing renewable energy legislation.

Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi appointed as rapporteur

The forum concluded with the appointment of Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi as the Rapporteur for the Legislators Forum 2025. She will present the forum's outcome document, which includes key recommendations on enhancing renewable energy legislation and achieving global climate goals, to members of the IRENA General Assembly on January 13th.