25-06-2009-
On 4th June 2009, the Principality of Monaco signed IRENA’s (the International Renewable Energy Agency) statute.
Set up in Bonn in January 2009 on the initiative of Denmark, Germany and Spain, the purpose of the agency is to promote the use of all types of renewable energies – solar, wind, biomass, geothermal and bio-fuels – considering the following:
- national priorities;
- preservation of the environment;
- economic and social conditions;
- political context.
With an annual budget of 25 million dollars, IRENA provides practical advice and supports both the developed and developing countries, helping them to improve their regulatory framework and to reinforce their capacity. The agency facilitates access to all pertinent information such as reliable data on the potential of renewable energies, examples of good practice, efficient finance mechanisms and state-of-the-art technological expertise.
“Renewable energies provide an appropriate solution in the face of global warming generated by greenhouse gas emissions, increased global energy needs, exponential costs and the scarcity of fossil energy. Monaco’s membership of this agency dedicated to the development of new energy sources contributes to the Principality’s commitment towards a society that can meet its energy needs and at the same time preserve the environment" points out Cyril Gomez, Director of the Environment.
The second session of the Agency’s preparatory commission will take place in Sharm el Sheik on 29th and 30th June, in which a Monegasque delegation led by the Department for the Environment will take part.
The purpose of this conference is to determine the interim headquarters of the Agency and elect the interim Director General. On this occasion, a detailed work programme is to be adopted for the second half 2009, focused on administrative and financial issues, the aim being to equip the Agency with internal capacities and infrastructure.
The second Commission should also mark the launch of the Agency’s initial activities such as providing policy advice, supporting technology and knowledge transfer.
As of 15th June 2009, 98 countries have signed the statute of this agency.
For further information:
Department for the Environment
environnement@gouv.mc
Tel: 98 98 80 00 |