Your Guide to International Clean Energy Day 2025

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International Clean Energy Day was founded by the UN
On 26 January 2025 the world will celebrate the third annual International Clean Energy Day, created by the UN in line with Sustainable Development Goal 7

On 26 January, 2025, the world will celebrate the third annual International Clean Energy Day, a global observance dedicated to raising awareness and mobilising action for a just and inclusive transition to clean energy.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2023, International Clean Energy Day serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role clean energy plays in combating climate change and achieving sustainable development goals.

The history of International Clean Energy Day

The United Nations General Assembly declared 26 January as International Clean Energy Day in 2023 in support of the Sustainable Development Goals and targets.

UN Sustainable Development Goal 7
  • Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

When establishing the day, the UN stressed the “need for a coherent, integrated approach to energy issues and the promotion of synergies across the global energy agenda, with a focus on eradicating poverty and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals”.

This date was chosen to commemorate the founding of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in 2009, an intergovernmental organisation that supports countries in their energy transitions and serves as a platform for international cooperation.

Every US$1 invested in renewables creates 3x more jobs than in the fossil fuel industry

The UN

Why do we need International Clean Energy Day?

International Clean Energy Day highlights the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels and invest in sustainable energy sources.

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This observance is crucial for several reasons:

  • Climate action: Clean energy is integral to the fight against climate change. Fossil fuels are the single biggest contributor to the climate crisis, and transitioning to renewable energy sources is essential for limiting global temperature rise
  • Universal access: The day draws attention to the fact that 675 million people still lack access to electricity, with four in five of these individuals living in Sub-Saharan Africa. Clean energy has the potential to transform lives by providing reliable power for education, healthcare and economic opportunities
  • Sustainable development: The transition to clean energy is key to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030.
António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

Objectives of International Clean Energy Day

The primary aims of this global observance include:

  • Raising awareness: The day seeks to educate the public about the benefits of clean energy and its role in mitigating climate change.
  • Mobilising action: It calls on governments, industries and organisations worldwide to accelerate the shift towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
  • Promoting innovation: The day encourages the development and adoption of new clean energy technologies and solutions.
  • Fostering collaboration: It serves as a platform for international cooperation and knowledge sharing in the field of clean energy.

It’s time to stop burning our planet, and start investing in the abundant renewable energy all around us

António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

International Clean Energy Day 2025

International Clean Energy Day 2025 serves as a rallying point for governments, businesses and individuals to redouble their efforts in creating a sustainable, clean energy future.

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The challenges are significant, with millions still lacking access to electricity and the world not yet on track to achieve SDG7 by 2030. 

However, the growing commitment to clean energy provides hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future. 

International Clean Energy Day reminds us that the transition to clean energy is not just an environmental imperative, but also a pathway to economic growth, improved public health and enhanced quality of life for people around the world.


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