COP24 in Katowice, Poland
The 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP24) was held from 2 to 14 December in Katowice, Poland. The main themes discussed were: (1) technology, showing modern and environmentally friendly solutions that allow sustainable urban development; (2) human, emphasizing the need to lead change together with people through the solidarity and fair transformation of regions and industrial sectors; and (3) nature, including multifunctional and sustainable forest management as part of climate neutrality.
There was also time for renewable energies, climate change and Africa’s future talks; and scientific studies, financial funds and other platforms were presented.
Sessions such as "Unlocking Commercial Financing for Small-Scale Renewable Energy in Africa" or Energy Efficiency in Africa, presented at the African Development Bank pavilion, showed the situation of the African continent and its future. Several delegates and speakers said that Africa has the potential to lead the world in the expansion and generation of renewable energy. Africa has almost unlimited solar capacity (10 TW), abundant hydroelectric power (350 GW), wind power (110 GW) and geothermal energy (15 GW). The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that renewable energy capacity in Africa can reach 310 GW by 2030; which would put the continent at the forefront of global renewable energy production.
The UK Government has presented a $ 100 million fund to bring clean energy to more than 2 million people, supporting more than 40 solar, wind, water and geothermal energy projects in sub-Saharan Africa.
Another project presented by the World Future Council was the Global Renewables Congress which aims to institutionalize a non-partisan international platform for legislators to exchange knowledge and experience on issues related to the deployment of renewable energy solutions, including the technological and economic potential, as well as socio-economic benefits.
Finally, in this brief synthesis of COP24, the LUT University has presented a study indicating that the transition to 100% renewable energy sources will be economically competitive against the current fossil fuel and nuclear fuel system and will lead to zero emissions by 2050. The study was based on a simulation of energy transition, which had data collected over four years and concluded that the transition will require massive electrification in all energy sectors.
For further information visit COP 24 website.