Image: Chariot Energy
The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) has published a manifesto asking governments worldwide to take a more proactive approach to the energy transition. Emphasizing the need to scale up wind installations and increase private sector collaboration, the manifesto comprises eight steps that need to be taken for net zero emissions by 2050 are to be met.
The manifesto was created with input from over 90 wind energy companies and associations. With a primary objective to motivate governments to enhance wind energy developments, the manifesto calls for increased government support and action to drive the global energy transition and capitalize on global wind capacity. According to the manifesto, despite representing the fastest growing energy source globally – 93GW of installations were completed in 2020 – and the ideal solution to address the climate crisis, the wind industry requires the scaling up of installations by four times to reach net zero by 2050.
Therefore, the coalition of wind energy stakeholders have introduced eight steps that need to be taken:
- Increase wind power ambition. This should be reflected in updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), comprehensive national climate strategies and long-term energy plans.
- Commit to the rapid phasing out of coal-based generation immediately.
- Design and implement energy markets for the future.
- Implement streamlined and sensible permitting schemes for renewable energy project to accelerate deployment and minimize project attrition.
- Initiate plans to rapidly build out clean energy grids and charging stations for electric vehicles.
- Develop cohesive and inclusive policies which dedicate public resource to the people-centered shift to a net zero economy.
- Align national and regional finance flows with benchmarks for a net zero, 1.5°C compliant pathway.
- Advance voluntary cooperation on carbon pricing under articles 6.2 and 6.4 of the Paris agreement.
Global wind resources can be harnessed to address energy poverty, drive socio-economic growth, and ensure the utilization of environmentally friendly energy sources. However, without adequate political will and supportive policies, the industry will not be able to meet its full potential.
“Governments must respond decisively to the current climate emergency to ensure a viable future for current and future generations. Achieving a rapid transition from fossil fuels is a key part of the solution. This Manifesto sets out the meaningful actions that governments need to carry out to realize the energy transition,” stated Ben Backwell, CEO of GWEC.
“We already have the tools and the technology we need to tackle climate change. What we don’t have yet is the unprecedented political will we need to make this happen. Our Manifesto sets out eight clear actions policymakers and governments must take to seize the vast economic, environmental and social opportunities that wind energy provides, helping meet NDCs and achieve sustainable growth,” stated Rebecca Williams, Director of COP26 at GWEC.
