Cities now have an unprecedented chance to transform and decarbonise their energy supply and use, according to the latest report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Renewable Energy in Cities, released on the side-lines of the Habitat III Conference in Quito, estimates the energy use in 3,649 cities and explores their potential to scale-up renewable energy by 2030.
It finds that although there is no one-size fits all solution; every city has huge potential to cost-effectively boost renewable energy use at the local level.
IRENA Director General, Adnan Z.Amin, commented: “Cities can play a transformative role in leading the world to a clean and sustainable energy future.
“We have to rethink the entire urban energy landscape, which requires rigorous planning and holistic decision-making. Renewable energy, combined with energy efficiency, will power the future growth of cities. We must ensure this transition happens as soon as possible.”
Electricity use varies widely throughout different cities depending on climate conditions, population density and development stage.
Similarly, energy use for transport varies hugely depending on urbanisation models. Today, renewables supply just 20% of this energy, but much more is possible.
Renewable Energy in Cities outlines three priority areas – both in technology and in policy – where cities can take action to scale up the use of renewable energy sources: renewable energy in buildings (for heating, cooling, cooking, and appliances); sustainable options for transport (electric mobility and biofuels); and creating integrated urban energy systems.
Accounting for 65% of global energy use and 70% of man-made carbon emissions, cities must play a major role in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
By highlighting best practice from cities across the world, the report shows what is possible and what policies are required to enable the change.
It also offers concrete examples of how city actors can accelerate the switch to renewable energy at the local level by acting as planners, regulators, financiers and operators of urban infrastructure.
