UN pushes for faster development of Azerbaijan’s untapped green energy potential

Azerbaijan, along with its neighbors in the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) region, holds significant untapped potential in renewable energy sources (RES), according to Jean Rodrigues, Head of Communications and Press Secretary of UNECE.

In a statement to Report, Rodrigues emphasized the UNECE region's commitment to increasing renewable energy generation capacity threefold and doubling energy efficiency by 2030, Caliber.Az reports.

However, he pointed out that the region's current pace does not yet meet the targets set by Sustainable Development Goal No. 7 (energy) and the urgent need to combat climate change.

"The impacts of climate change are becoming more pronounced, underscoring the need for faster adoption of RES and increased investments in energy efficiency," Rodrigues said. "UNECE member states are seeking support in building resilient energy systems based on energy security, availability, and environmental sustainability. This requires an integrated approach that incorporates low- and zero-carbon technologies, alongside coordinated efforts within a just energy transition."

Rodrigues added that investments in renewable energy could play a crucial role in decarbonizing economies, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting low-carbon technologies.

At the upcoming COP29, UNECE, in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, and the COP29 presidency, will discuss accelerating the transition to RES and securing financing for these efforts in Central Asia. Rodrigues noted that UNECE will continue to support the region's efforts toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

UNECE's support to member states includes providing guidance through the Intergovernmental Committee on Sustainable Energy, developing practical recommendations for achieving carbon neutrality, and offering assistance with policy formulation and capacity building.

"Financing the energy transition is a key priority. UNECE is working with COP chairs and High-Level Climate Champions to attract international investments to this process," Rodrigues explained. "This year alone, over 50 projects in Central Asia have been assessed, many using the PIERS (Public-Private Partnership and Infrastructure Evaluation Rating System) methodology developed by UNECE. This system evaluates how infrastructure projects contribute to sustainable development."

Rodrigues also highlighted the growing role of digitalization in the energy sector, which he believes will improve efficiency, optimize resource use, and reduce costs. Recently, UNECE published a collection of case studies showing how artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies can help accelerate the energy transition. These studies emphasize the need for strong governance frameworks to manage digital transformations effectively.

By Khagan Isayev