• COP28 deal calls for global transition away from fossil fuels for the first time;
• The REA says that while this is good news for our sector, the overall picture is mixed as commitments appear to be self-policing rather than legally binding;
• The text emphasises that now is the time for renewables – a great rallying call for our sector;
• UK Government, though, must now ensure this is delivered with clear policies to phase out unabated fossil fuels if we are to make the most of this historic milestone and maintain global leadership in achieving net zero.

The REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology) cautiously welcomes the news that all countries have been formally called upon to transition away from fossil fuels. The deal has been agreed as we come to an end to COP28 in Dubai, after days of negotiations.

The text recognises the need for deep, rapid and sustained reductions if humanity is to limit temperature rises to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels.

While this is a historic milestone on the path to a net zero emission economy that is safter, healthier, and more prosperous for all, the REA recognises that these negotiations have come far later than they needed to, and could have gone further.

The REA now reiterates our urgent call on UK Government to ensure this call is delivered in domestic policy, with clear pathways that phase out unabated fossil fuels. This is absolutely crucial for maintaining any sense of UK leadership on the global stage.

Dr Nina Skorupska CBE, Chief Executive of the REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology) said:

“For the first time in three decades of climate negotiations, the words fossil fuels have featured in a COP outcome, which is indeed a historic moment and emphasises that the time for renewables is now.

“While grateful that this text has entered the agreement, I am wary of how each nation will pursue what they believe are courses of actions. We must all now be vigilant in holding our world leaders, including the UK, to account.

“The next time we will have a view of this progress with clear data as part of the Global Stock Take will not be until 2025 in Brazil.

“Therefore, moving forward the REA will encourage the UK Government to ensure this call is delivered in domestic policy, with clear pathways that phase out unabated fossil fuels. This is absolutely crucial for maintaining any sense of UK leadership on the global stage.”

—ENDS—