Global energy leaders are rallying behind a renewed push for electrification as a central pillar of climate action and economic resilience, with momentum building ahead of COP31.
The initiative builds on progress made under Brazil’s COP30 Presidency, which aligned its Action Agenda with the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake and introduced six thematic priorities. The incoming COP31 Presidency, led by Türkiye in partnership with Australia, is now seeking to advance that framework with a stronger focus on electrification as a driver of energy security, economic stability and emissions reduction.
Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), said the ongoing global energy crisis is accelerating the transition toward what he described as the “Age of Electricity.” He noted that rising demand from artificial intelligence, air conditioning, electric vehicles and industrial activity is reshaping global energy systems.
“As the strategic partner to the COP31 Presidency, the IEA is supporting the Action Agenda with two Special Reports,” Birol said. “One outlines how countries can electrify their economies to enhance energy security while increasing electricity’s share of global energy consumption to 35 percent by 2035. The second highlights how reducing waste can significantly cut emissions while delivering broader economic benefits.”
Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), also endorsed the electrification target, describing it as both achievable and essential. He confirmed that IRENA’s roadmap similarly calls for global electrification to reach 35 percent by 2035, driven by renewable energy expansion and grid upgrades.
“As energy demand rises rapidly across transport, industry, buildings and digital systems, the transition must focus on electrifying these end-use sectors,” La Camera said. “Electrification is among the most immediate, scalable and cost-effective solutions available. Economies
that accelerate electrification with renewables can reduce exposure to volatile fuel imports while strengthening competitiveness.”
He added that international cooperation will be critical to scaling progress, noting that IRENA is prepared to support the COP31 Presidency through its global membership network.
Industry groups have also voiced support for the agenda. Bruce Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of the Global Renewables Alliance, said electrification offers a practical pathway to translate renewable energy growth into tangible economic gains.
“Electrification lowers costs, improves energy security, expands access and boosts competitiveness,” Douglas said. “A clear global focus helps align policy, finance and industry, giving businesses and investors the confidence to scale up action across the real economy.”
The renewed emphasis on electrification comes at a time of heightened concern over global supply chains and inflationary pressures linked to volatile fossil fuel markets. Analysts say accelerating the shift toward electricity-based systems powered by renewables could help stabilize energy costs while advancing climate goals.
With COP31 approaching, the proposed electrification target is expected to feature prominently in negotiations, as governments, industry leaders and international agencies seek to translate commitments into measurable outcomes.
