The International Energy Agency (IEA) unveiled a new tool aimed at tracking country progress on people-centred clean energy transitions. The initiative seeks to identify best practices and provide governments with guidance to prioritize fairness and inclusivity in clean energy policies.
Known as the Global Observatory, the platform will, according to the IEA, serve as a repository of exemplary case studies from around the world, focusing on four key themes: jobs and worker protections, social and economic development, equity and social inclusion, and citizen participation in clean energy transitions.
The tool is part of the IEA’s broader efforts to ensure that the transition to clean energy benefits everyone, particularly the most vulnerable in society.
“The transition to clean energy is about much more than reducing emissions. This transition is happening faster than many people think, with many positive economic and social benefits around job creation and poverty reduction,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.
“Nonetheless, leaders must put people at the centre of clean energy policies to ensure no one is left behind. The new observatory will provide best-in-class examples that countries can use as a blueprint for their own policy initiatives.”
The launch of the Global Observatory coincides with the IEA’s upcoming Global Summit on People-Centred Clean Energy Transitions, scheduled for April 26 at its headquarters in Paris.
The summit will bring together various stakeholders, including ministers, policy makers, labor leaders, CEOs, youth representatives, and indigenous voices, to discuss socio-economic issues central to fair and inclusive energy transitions.
According to IEA analysis, the transition to net zero emissions is expected to create approximately 30 million new jobs in clean energy technologies by 2030. While this presents significant opportunities, policies are needed to ensure a smooth transition for workers in declining fossil fuel sectors.
The IEA’s Clean Energy Labour Council, established in 2022, aims to facilitate dialogue between the IEA, stakeholders, and the labor sector to address these challenges and foster a just transition.
