REN21 Launches Global Champions to Accelerate Renewable Energy Shift
REN21 announced the launch of its groundbreaking Renewable Energy Champions Initiative (RECI) at the 7th session of the Caribbean Renewable Energy Forum (CREF) in Miami. This bold new initiative is designed to accelerate the global energy transition by pairing national-level decision makers with a powerful network of former ministers and senior officials from the Global South—leaders who have already driven successful renewable energy transformations in their own countries.
“These champions have lived the transition to renewables. They’ve overcome obstacles, implemented bold policies, and delivered real results,” said Rana Adib, REN21’s Executive Director. “Now they’re stepping forward to help others do the same—through trust-based, peer-to-peer collaboration that supports countries in building resilient, inclusive and renewables-based economies.”
This first of its kind initiative comes at a crucial moment where greater regional and international cooperation is urgently needed to overcome rising fragmentation and build energy security. At the first Summit on the Future of Energy Security, held in the UK in April 2025, more than 60 countries reaffirmed the need to strengthen collaboration on supply chains, technologies, energy generation, and grid infrastructure, to accelerate the energy transition and to ensure energy security and economic development. The Renewable Energy Champions Initiative can enhance cooperation by connecting countries and stakeholders to reach shared solutions to shared challenges.
In today’s energy security era, more countries are turning to locally available renewables to safeguard and build their economies and reduce dependence on external sources. More than 77 countries now get over 10% of the total energy they use from renewables, and over 104 countries exceed 5%. At least 35 countries have already surpassed 30%—and these numbers are likely even higher, as many countries lack complete data. Former ministers and senior officials of the Renewable Energy Champions Initiative—who have achieved energy security and economic resilience through renewables in their own countries—are uniquely positioned to inspire and support their peers, helping other governments go further, faster, and with greater confidence.
A Strategic Network of Trailblazers
The Renewable Energy Champions Initiative connects ministers of energy, economy, and finance with trusted peers who bring:
- Compelling narratives that make the socio-economic case for renewables
- Proven track record and experience, transforming national energy systems
- Connections to international institutions, financial partners, and technical experts
- Confidence in renewables to build political will and unlock strategic partnerships
- Access to resources such as financing, technical expertise and capacity-building opportunities
Meet the First Champions
The initiative launches with two high-profile champions from Latin America and the Caribbean:
- James Fletcher, Former Minister for Public Service, Information, Broadcasting, Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology, Saint Lucia.
Led a comprehensive overhaul of Saint Lucia’s energy sector, introducing modern regulation, international partnerships, and inclusive policy reform to drive renewable energy development. - Ramón Méndez Galain, Former Energy Secretary, Uruguay.
Spearheaded Uruguay’s transformation to 98% renewable electricity, halving generation costs, boosting resilience, creating 50,000 jobs, and securing near-universal electricity access.
The initiative will be expanded to include other visionary leaders from across the Global South, ensuring regional diversity and deepening collaboration across continents.
REN21 | https://www.ren21.net/