André Corrêa do Lago joins global leaders at Climate Week, advocating for renewable energy transition

Global leaders and private-sector representatives discussed policies, investments, and innovations to accelerate the transition to renewable energy during Climate Week in New York

By Rafaela Ferreira / COP30

On Monday, September 22, at Climate Week in New York, the central theme was identifying the practical actions needed to usher in an era of renewable energy abundance. This topic formed the basis of both the High-Level Session on Renewable Energy Abundance and the opening of the Global Renewable Energy Summit. Heads of government, private-sector executives, and leading financiers from civil society discussed policies to increase renewable capacity and overcome barriers to technology deployment.

For COP30 President André Corrêa do Lago, linking renewable energy to other agendas is a crucial step. “In terms of energy security, energy justice, and energy independence, many new elements have come together to drive down prices, create simpler technologies, and foster growth through infrastructure that is easier to install,” said the Ambassador.

Corrêa do Lago also recalled Brazil’s long-standing experience with renewable energy. “We began with hydropower because we didn’t have coal. Not because we were thinking about climate change back in the 1960s and 1970s, but because we had to rely on hydropower, which turned out to be excellent. Later, we expanded into solar and wind energy.”

The event also highlighted the private sector’s commitment to accelerating the construction of zero-emission infrastructure, driving a transformation that will reshape economies and societies as a whole. These technologies are opening a new era of global prosperity, innovation, competitiveness, and resilience, while simultaneously lowering energy costs for businesses and communities.

Energy Transition

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the progress made in the energy transition over the past year. "The energy transition has truly taken off," she said. In 2024, almost USD 2 trillion was invested in clean energy worldwide, and for every USD 1 spent on fossil fuels, more than USD 2 was invested in clean energy. The economic case is clear,” she stressed.

She also emphasized that the energy transition must be a joint effort between governments and industries that crosses borders and continents. "Therefore, my message to the CEOs and investors here today is this: Please tell us what you need—be it guarantees, risk-sharing tools, or a favorable regulatory environment—so that we can provide them and enable you to invest on a large scale where it matters most," declared the President of the European Commission.

Bahamas Prime Minister Mr. Philip Davis pointed out that decision-makers worldwide need to understand that replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy is not a cost to bear, but a prerequisite for a prosperous future. “We know the work of energy reform is complex, expensive, and sometimes overwhelming. Yet we also know that every solar panel installed, every regulation modernized, every grid improved brings us closer to a world where energy abundance is real. The question is not perfection. The question is progress—and the belief that, by working together, every step we take strengthens our collective chances of success.”

Mr. Bruce Douglas, CEO of the Global Renewables Alliance, emphasized: “The pathway is clear: phasing out volatile fossil fuels while delivering abundant renewable energy is how we create prosperity, stability, and true energy security. But if we are to build the clean, resilient, and competitive energy system of the future, we must all rise, unite, and act now.”

Economic Efficiency

On this occasion, Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago reiterated that renewable energy is already a reality and makes economic sense. “I believe we need to focus on how we can actually make these resources reach countries that have incredible renewable energy potential but are still unable to realize it due to the many financial barriers they face.”

Mr. Andrew Forrest, Executive Chairman and Founder of Fortescue, also emphasized the role of renewable energy in the economy. “Green energy is everywhere. You feel it every day—on your face, on your skin, in the wind blowing through your hair. It is a financially sound decision. It is green energy, 24/7. We must build this global partnership that brings together innovation, governments, and industry—East and West—to enable rapid decarbonization and build shared prosperity.”

In agreement, Climate Group Chair Mike Rann highlighted that renewable energy is not just a race to fight climate change but also an opportunity to drive economic excellence and future profits. “Climate Week in New York is making it clear that it makes economic sense to embrace the inevitable future, rather than cling to a toxic past and the short-term spoils of defeat.”

English version: Trad. Bárbara Menezes. 
Proofreading by Enrique Villamil.