In a major development for global solar energy initiatives, India and France have been appointed as the President and Co-President, respectively, of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for a two-year term from 2024 to 2026. This decision was reached during the 7th Session of the ISA held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. With a shared vision to accelerate the global transition to solar power, India and France will lead the ISA, promoting solar energy adoption across the world and fostering international cooperation in renewable energy development.
The appointment of India as President and France as Co-President reflects the countries’ commitment to renewable energy and their ongoing efforts to combat climate change. India was the sole candidate for the presidency, while France secured the co-presidency after competing with Grenada. As ISA leaders, India and France aim to mobilize resources, facilitate solar technology transfer, and promote solar investment opportunities in ISA member countries.
The International Solar Alliance (ISA): A Brief Overview
Established in November 2015, the International Solar Alliance is a coalition of 114 countries working together to harness the power of solar energy. Headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana, India, ISA was initiated by India and France to create a collaborative platform for increasing solar energy usage and minimizing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The ISA’s primary objectives include reducing the cost of solar power, enhancing energy access, and fostering sustainable development in its member countries.
ISA’s Leadership Structure for 2024-2026
The leadership structure for the ISA’s 2024-2026 term includes India and France as the President and Co-President, alongside eight Vice Presidents appointed across four global regions. This regional structure is designed to ensure balanced representation and strategic focus on each continent’s unique energy needs and solar potential.
Regional Vice Presidents and Vice Chairs:
- Africa: Ghana and Seychelles have been elected as Vice Presidents, while South Sudan and Comoros will serve as Vice Chairs.
- Asia and the Pacific: Australia and Sri Lanka take on the roles of Vice Presidents, with the UAE and Papua New Guinea as Vice Chairs.
- Europe and Others: Germany and Italy will serve as Vice Presidents, and Greece and Norway have been appointed as Vice Chairs.
- Latin America and the Caribbean: Grenada and Suriname hold the Vice President positions, while Jamaica and Haiti will serve as Vice Chairs.
This diverse leadership aims to provide comprehensive support and guidance to ISA’s initiatives worldwide. The appointment of regional Vice Presidents and Vice Chairs will enable tailored solar solutions, taking into account specific challenges and opportunities in each region.
Ashish Khanna: The New Director General-Designate of ISA
In addition to the election of new leadership, Ashish Khanna has been appointed as the Director General-Designate of the ISA. He will officially assume office in March 2025, following the end of the term of the current Director General, Ajay Mathur. Khanna’s experience and expertise in energy sector development, especially within India, position him as an ideal successor to lead the ISA in its mission to expand solar energy deployment globally. Under his leadership, ISA is expected to further its influence, particularly in developing countries where energy access remains a pressing issue.
India and France: A Strategic Partnership for Solar Energy Growth
India and France have consistently demonstrated their commitment to renewable energy, making their selection as President and Co-President of the ISA highly fitting. India, with its ambitious renewable energy targets, has made remarkable progress in increasing its solar energy capacity. The country aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power generation by 2030, with solar energy being a key component of this target. India’s extensive experience in large-scale solar installations and policy-driven solar programs will be instrumental in shaping ISA’s strategies.
France, on the other hand, has a strong background in green technology and energy-efficient solutions, and its support for solar energy aligns well with the ISA’s mission. As Co-President, France will continue to collaborate with India to create new solar energy solutions, enhance technology transfer, and support capacity-building initiatives for ISA member countries.
ISA’s Role in Global Climate Action
The leadership changes at the ISA come at a crucial time as the world faces escalating challenges from climate change. The ISA serves as a critical platform for member nations to work collaboratively on renewable energy solutions that can reduce carbon emissions, meet sustainable energy needs, and build climate resilience. With India and France at the helm, the ISA is set to scale up efforts to meet these challenges and fulfill its vision of a solar-powered future.
One of the ISA’s primary goals is to facilitate financial resources and investments for solar projects in member countries. The alliance aims to attract investments of more than $1 trillion by 2030 to fund solar power initiatives globally. This funding will be directed toward developing solar infrastructure, technology transfer, and capacity building, helping member countries transition to clean energy and reduce their carbon footprints.
ISA’s Impact in Key Regions: A Spotlight on Initiatives
ISA’s initiatives are making a tangible impact in various regions, promoting solar energy adoption and supporting sustainable development:
- Africa: With abundant sunlight and high energy demands, Africa is a priority region for ISA. Projects like the “Solar Mini Grids” initiative have expanded access to clean electricity in rural and remote areas. Under the guidance of Vice Presidents Ghana and Seychelles, the ISA will focus on scaling up mini-grid solutions to power underserved communities.
- Asia and the Pacific: India’s experience in solar power makes the Asia-Pacific region a natural focus area. Projects like “Solar Rooftop” initiatives have been successfully implemented, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
- Latin America and the Caribbean: With rising energy needs, this region benefits significantly from solar energy. The “Solar Parks” initiative has been rolled out in Latin American countries to increase solar power generation capacity, with support from Vice Presidents Grenada and Suriname.
- Europe and Others: In Europe, ISA is working with countries like Germany and Italy to develop hybrid solar solutions that integrate solar power with other renewable energy sources, improving energy resilience in colder climates.
ISA’s Vision for 2024-2026: Expanding Solar Capacity and Driving Innovation
Looking forward, ISA aims to amplify its impact by focusing on innovation and scaling up renewable energy adoption. The alliance is expected to launch new programs that leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies to optimize solar energy generation and distribution. The organization also intends to work closely with governments and private sector stakeholders to promote investment in solar infrastructure and incentivize the adoption of solar technologies.
To further bolster its sustainability agenda, the ISA will promote research and development in solar storage solutions, off-grid solar applications, and hybrid energy systems. These initiatives will play a critical role in providing clean and affordable energy to underserved regions, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
The election of India and France as President and Co-President of the International Solar Alliance is a testament to their dedication to advancing the global solar agenda. With their leadership, the ISA is poised to accelerate the adoption of solar energy worldwide, bringing us closer to a sustainable, carbon-neutral future. Through continued cooperation, strategic investments, and innovative solutions, the ISA is set to empower nations to harness solar energy for economic growth and environmental sustainability.