World Energy Transitions Outlook: 1.5°C Pathway

Irena’s World Energy Transitions Outlook outlines a pathway for the world to achieve the Paris Agreement goals and halt the pace of climate change by transforming the global energy landscape. This report presents options to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C and bring CO₂ emissions to net-zero by 2050, offering high-level insights on technology choices, investment needs, policy framework, and the socio-economic impacts of achieving a sustainable, resilient and inclusive energy future.

IRENA’s analysis shows that over 90% of the solutions shaping a successful outcome in 2050 involve renewable energy through direct supply, electrification, energy efficiency, green hydrogen, and bioenergy combined with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). Energy transition investment will have to increase by 30% over planned investment to a total of USD 131 trillion between now and 2050, yet will yield a cumulative payback of at least USD 61 trillion by 2050.

Yet, the necessary deployment levels at a speed compatible with 1.5 degrees Celcius, will require targeted policies and measures.