The Government of Spain has assumed the Vice Presidency of the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), being held from January 10 to 12 in Masdar, Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates.
Spain is represented by Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge, Sara Aagesen, with on-site leadership by Secretary of State for Energy Joan Groizard. The country will hold this strategic role throughout 2026 within the intergovernmental organization that leads the global transition to renewable energy.
“Spain’s leadership within IRENA reflects our commitment to multilateralism, renewable energy and international cooperation as key tools to ensure fair, sustainable development with positive socioeconomic impact,” Aagesen stated.
The announcement coincides with the decision by the United States to withdraw from several multilateral forums, including IRENA—a move the Spanish government described as a setback for global efforts on climate action and energy security.
Spain’s assumption of the vice presidency is therefore seen as reinforcing continuity and leadership within the global renewable energy agenda at a time of geopolitical uncertainty.
During the Assembly, Spain confirmed it will finance the 2026–2027 work program of the Partnership for the Advancement of Renewable Energies in Latin America (PARLA). The initiative aims to strengthen technical and policy capacities, expand renewable energy infrastructure, and promote sustainable bioenergy across the region.
Spain will contribute USD 250,000 per year to support the program, which includes regional training forums and technical assistance for governments and local stakeholders.
In his address to the Assembly, Groizard is expected to reiterate the need to accelerate the energy transition as a direct response to the climate crisis and as a driver of global economic growth, investment in renewables, and long-term energy resilience.
Spain arrives at the IRENA Assembly with strong domestic credentials. In 2025, renewable energy sources—primarily wind power and solar PV—covered 57% of national electricity demand, significantly enhancing energy security and reducing exposure to geopolitical risks and market volatility.
IRENA’s 2026 Assembly Focus
This year’s Assembly, held in Masdar under the theme “Powering Humanity: Renewable Energy for Shared Prosperity,” brings together global leaders, policymakers and industry executives to stress the urgency of scaling up renewable solutions worldwide. The objective is to advance shared prosperity, energy equity, grid integration and climate resilience through accelerated deployment of clean energy technologies.
Spain’s new role positions the country as a key actor in shaping international renewable energy policy at a decisive moment for the global energy transition.
