UK launches Global Clean Power Alliance at G20 Summit

The UK Government has unveiled the Global Clean Power Alliance (GCPA), a coalition to help fast-track the global transition to clean energy. Announced at the G20 summit in Rio, this alliance unites countries across the Global North and South, with the dual aim of combating climate change and enhancing global energy security.

Which countries are taking part in the new Alliance?

Founding members include countries from diverse regions such as Brazil, Australia, Barbados, Canada, and Tanzania, along with the African Union. The United States and the EU have also joined forces with the UK to support this initiative.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasised the Alliance’s transformative potential, stating, “The climate crisis is the greatest challenge the world faces and tackling it is essential for Britain’s national security, energy security, and economic growth.

“Working with allies, the Global Clean Power Alliance will turbocharge the rollout of clean power worldwide and support our mission to become a clean energy superpower.”

What are the goals of the GCPA?

The Alliance builds on commitments made at COP28 to:

• Triple renewable energy capacity globally.
• Double the rate of energy efficiency improvements.

Its first mission, co-led by the UK and Brazil, focuses on unlocking private sector finance for renewable energy projects in developing nations. Member countries will share expertise to overcome investment barriers, particularly in regions most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Dean Cooper of WWF and Ilan Zugaman of 350.org praised the Alliance’s ambitions but cautioned that its success depends on meaningful action and substantial financial commitments to clean energy projects.

He said, “This announcement is a step in the right direction, but it must go further. This isn’t just about adding more clean power—it’s about transforming the entire power system by phasing out gas, oil, and coal.”