International Observance of Clean Energy 

The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution A/77/327, has designated 26 January as the International Day of Clean Energy. This global observance aims to promote awareness and encourage action toward a fair and inclusive shift to clean energy that benefits both people and the environment.
The selection of this date holds great significance because it marks the anniversary of the founding of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in 2009. IRENA, a global inter-Governmental organisation, offers support to countries in their energy transitions by providing policy advice, data and analysis, capacity building, and a platform for international cooperation on renewable energy technologies.

What is clean energy, and why is it important?
With increased manufacturing worldwide and AI technology on the rise, we need to amplify our use of clean and renewable energy sources. “Clean energy” refers to energy sources that do not release pollutants or greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere when generating electricity. This includes technologies such as solar, wind, nuclear, geothermal and hydropower.
Unfortunately, the world is lagging behind in its pursuit to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7, which seeks to provide universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy by 2030. Approximately 666 million people are still living in the dark today, a majority of whom are from Sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, burning fossil fuels has gravely undermined our efforts in achieving this goal. The continued use of oil, gas, and coal for energy has led to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which traps heat and thereby worsens the effects of climate change and natural disasters.
Therefore, transitioning to clean energy is important because it holds benefits not only for the planet but also for human well-being. Apart from its evident positive environmental effects, shifting to clean energy can spur economic growth by creating millions of jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research. It can also reduce reliance on imported fuels, making countries more energy-independent and stable. While building the infrastructure for clean energy takes planning and investment, the benefits of having cleaner air, lower healthcare costs, stable energy prices, and a safer environment for future generations make it a necessary and worthwhile transition.

Global and local efforts to transition to clean energy
Across the globe, countries and cities are proving that clean energy isn’t just possible; it’s already happening. Denmark, for example, generates nearly half of its electricity from wind turbines, creating thousands of jobs while cutting emissions. Costa Rica operates on more than 90% renewable energy, relying on hydropower, wind, and geothermal sources, showing that even small nations can aim for carbon-neutral power. Even Iceland runs almost entirely on renewable energy, harnessing the power of rivers, waterfalls, and underground heat.
In a local context, Guyana has begun transitioning toward clean energy under its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, with several renewable projects now underway. Solar energy is a key focus: utility-scale solar farms like the 5 MW Onderneeming facility and 3 MW plants at Prospect and Hampshire are now in operation, and more are being constructed across regions to add roughly 50 MW of solar and mini-hydropower capacity by the end of 2026. Smaller solar systems are also expanding access in the hinterland communities.

How you can play your part
To support International Clean Energy Day, you can join businesses, Government bodies, and non-profits by raising awareness on your social media platforms. You can create and share short videos, facts about clean energy or your personal stories on how you are applying sustainable energy practices at home. Add hashtags to your post, such as #CleanEnergyDay or #Renewables, to make it more discoverable and impactful.