Government leaders, private sector executives, and civil society financiers gathered today at the High-Level Session on Renewable Energy Abundance, the flagship event of Climate Week NYC and the opening of the Global Renewables Summit, to pledge accelerated action toward a clean energy future.

The session highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to expand zero-emissions infrastructure, boost renewable energy capacity, and overcome barriers to the global energy transition. Leaders emphasized that renewable energy is central not only to addressing climate change but also to promoting energy security, economic growth, and social prosperity.

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen stressed the economic and strategic importance of clean energy. She noted that in 2024, nearly two trillion dollars were invested in clean energy worldwide and called for decisive collaboration between governments and industry to unlock renewable energy abundance globally.

Hon Prime Minister Philip Davis of the Bahamas highlighted the role of energy reform in creating prosperity, urging leaders to focus on the opportunities of clean energy rather than its costs. “Every panel installed, every regulation modernized, every grid moves us closer to a world where energy abundance is real,” he said.

Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), pointed to the rapid growth of renewable investments, noting a 14% annual increase since 2018. He emphasized the need to channel finance toward emerging markets and developing economies, which currently capture less than 10% of energy transition funding.

Bruce Douglas, CEO of the Global Renewables Alliance, stressed that phasing out fossil fuels and delivering renewable energy abundance is critical to achieving prosperity, stability, and energy security. Ambassador André Correa do Lago, President-Designate of COP30, added that integrating renewables with energy security and independence agendas will drive lower costs and technological growth.

The high-level session underscored a shared vision for a global energy system characterized by security, affordability, sustainability, and equity. Leaders affirmed that renewable energy and electrification will serve as the foundation for future economic competitiveness and societal well-being, paving the way toward COP30 and the UAE Consensus goal of tripling renewable energy by 2030.