IRENA News

IRENA NewGen 4th Edition Opens for Young Renewable Energy Innovators

IRENA launched the fourth edition of its NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator on 6 April 2026, inviting entrepreneurs aged 18–35 to apply with innovative solutions in renewable energy, climate adaptation, and climate mitigation technologies. The application window closes on 3 May 2026, with selected participants to be announced on 18 May 2026. The four-month hybrid programme offers a tailored curriculum, expert-led webinars, mentorship, pitching events, and investment matchmaking, with winners eligible for the IRENA Rising Stars Award.

IRENA Policy Advisory: Renewables for Energy Security and Resilience

IRENA published a policy advisory recommending immediate, mid-term, and long-term actions for policymakers to enhance energy security and resilience through renewable energy deployment. The brief highlights that 692 GW of renewable power capacity was added globally in 2025, with over 85% of new renewables now cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives. Since 2010, solar costs have fallen 87%, onshore wind 55%, and battery storage 93%. IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera commented that the energy crisis demonstrates the strategic case for renewables as a national security imperative.