Brazil has officially signed an agreement to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030 and transition away from coal, according to the country's Foreign Ministry. The move positions Brazil among approximately 100 nations endorsing the initiative, which is supported by the European Union, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates. The prospective deal is expected to be officially adopted during the United Nations COP28 climate negotiations in Dubai next week.
In a letter to the United Arab Emirates' Foreign Ministry, Brazil's embassy in Abu Dhabi confirmed its participation in the “Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Targets Pledge.” A spokesperson for Brazil's Foreign Ministry verified the country's decision to join the pact.
Despite Brazil's significant role in renewable energy, contributing over 80% of its electricity from renewable sources, the country acknowledges the mathematical challenge of tripling its own renewable energy capacity due to the already high percentage. However, the commitment signifies Brazil's continued support for global renewable energy efforts.
The draft renewable energy pledge, as reviewed by Reuters, outlines commitments to “the phase down of unabated coal power,” including ending financial support for new coal-fired power plants. While coal constitutes just over 1% of Brazil's electricity, the country is aligning with the initiative's goals.
The agreement also includes a commitment to doubling the global annual rate of energy efficiency improvement to 4% per year until 2030. Brazil's involvement in the initiative underscores its dedication to fostering sustainability and contributing to international efforts to combat climate change.