The initiative aims to support innovative solutions for renewable energy adoption on a global scale.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has unveiled a new initiative, the IRENA NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator, aimed at empowering young innovators and entrepreneurs to drive the transition towards renewable energy.
The program will offer capacity building, mentorship, and other resources to youth-led projects and startups developing innovative solutions that advance the adoption of renewable energy on a global scaleThe initiative, which was launched at the Youth Energy Forum held by the TAQA Youth Council during the World Utilities Congress, is supported by the United Arab Emirates. Social Alpha, an Indian non-profit organization that supports social startups, and Enel Foundation, a global non-profit organization focused on supporting energy research and studies, will collaborate as knowledge partners to provide technical expertise and mentorship to ensure the success of young entrepreneurs.
IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera stated that the transition to renewable energy is crucial for the planet’s future, and young entrepreneurs are playing a significant role in driving this change. By launching NewGen, IRENA is empowering a new generation of renewable energy leaders with the necessary resources to tackle pressing global challenges.
The NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator will accept youth-led projects and startups with a focus on innovative solutions in energy storage, grid integration, and energy efficiency. Selected participants will receive training, mentorship, and other resources to scale their solutions. The program’s top five solutions will receive financial support through the IRENA Youth Award.
Manoj Kumar, Founder and CEO of Social Alpha, expressed his excitement for the initiative, stating that supporting young entrepreneurs and innovators will accelerate the transition to a sustainable future. Carlo Papa, Managing Director of Enel Foundation, also shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, believing that young talents would help win the race to a clean energy future.
IRENA’s NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator is part of a broader effort to support the global acceleration of the energy transition powered by renewables. By empowering youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship, IRENA hopes to create new opportunities for clean energy development and help achieve climate objectives and sustainable development goals