Baku, Azerbaijan — Today, 15th November 2024 following the Ministerial Meeting on COP29 Energy Initiatives, The COP29 Presidency announced three key energy pledges. According to the statement, the Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge aims to increase energy storage capacity by 1,500 GW and add or refurbish 25 million kilometers of power grids globally by 2030. The Green Energy Zones and Corridors Pledge promotes the development of renewable energy zones and corridors to connect energy generation with areas of high demand. The Hydrogen Pledge seeks to expand green hydrogen production from 1 million tonnes annually and reduce the current 96 million tonnes of hydrogen from fossil fuels.
On COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge,
Andreas Sieber, Associate Director for Global Campaigns and Policy at 350.org says:
“Today’s pledge to update and expand grids and storage capabilities is welcome, and crucial to anchor and fast track the energy transition. To triple renewable energy capacity and double efficiency by 2030, we need the tools to integrate new renewable energy sources, strengthen resilience, and secure reliable and accessible power.
However, today’s pledge is just the first step – governments must also put forward bold climate targets, including the rapid phase-out of fossil fuels. Rich countries must commit to an ambitious climate finance goal to support investment in grid and storage technologies in the global south. In countries where there is a wide energy access gap, grids and storage must first serve the communities that need power the most, be built sustainably and prioritize people over profit.”
On COP29 Green Energy Pledge: Green Energy Zones and Corridors,
Ilan Zugman, 350.org Director for Latin America and the Caribbean says:
“As the world faces escalating fossil fueled climate disasters, the need to urgently phase out fossil fuels could not be clearer. Without a fossil fuel phase out, we will be talking about investments, not real solutions to the climate crisis. Renewable energy zones are a crucial step, but they must empower, not exploit, communities. By prioritizing community engagement, respecting the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent of Indigenous peoples, and offering community benefits, these zones can set a global standard for justice in the energy transition.
A just transition means rejecting dangerous distractions like nuclear energy and focusing on truly sustainable, fair, and renewable systems. Climate justice is about protecting Indigenous lands, upholding the rights of children and workers, and fostering inclusion free from discrimination. It’s time to create a green future that is not only sustainable but also just and equitable for all.”
On the COP29 Hydrogen Declaration,
Masayoshi Iyoda, 350.org Japan Campaigner says:
“A green hydrogen pledge is a vital step toward fast decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors, but it must be underpinned by science, climate justice and equity. Firstly, a phase out of fossil fuels is required for any pledge out of COP29 to make sense. Secondly, only green hydrogen, produced entirely from renewable energy, aligns with a sustainable future. Other forms of hydrogen—whether gray, blue, or pink—are unacceptable as they perpetuate emissions and inequities. This pledge must ensure that green hydrogen projects uphold human rights, benefit local communities, and support a just transition for workers. By centering the needs of frontline communities and marginalized groups, we can make green hydrogen a tool for both decarbonization and social equity.”