This year, renewables are projected to become the world’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time. Meanwhile, their prices keep plummeting.

On the International Day of Clean Energy, we celebrate this revolution. But we also recognize the challenges ahead.

The end of the fossil fuel age is certain. But governments must ensure that it comes swiftly and fairly. This is crucial to save us from the worst of the climate crisis, and to connect every person to clean energy — lifting millions out of poverty.

This year offers an unparalleled opportunity for countries to align their climate ambitions with their national energy and development strategies. All countries have committed to produce new national climate action plans aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. They must deliver with plans that cover all greenhouse gases and sectors; map a just fossil fuel phase-out; and contribute to the global goal to triple renewables capacity by 2030.

The G20 have the largest capacities and responsibilities — they must lead. All this must be achieved in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. But all countries must do more.

We also need action to get finance flowing to the renewables revolution in emerging markets and developing economies. That includes increasing the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks, tackling the high cost of capital, and taking effective action on debt.

On the International Day of Clean Energy, let’s commit to an international era of clean energy with speed, justice and collaboration at its core.

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Uniting through science is key to tackling our common challenges — from addressing the climate crisis, to combatting global pandemics, to taking on the untold risk posed by emerging technologies.

The International Science Council is an indispensable bridge between science and policy, connecting researchers to the work of global decision-makers.

Your crucial role is the reason I invited the Council to contribute to the work of the United Nations through the Scientific Advisory Board. By uniting experts across disciplines, the Board connects UN leaders to global networks representing thousands of scientists and academics, especially in developing countries. And it helps ensure that science shapes policy solutions for people and planet.

This spirit is central to the Pact for the Future, adopted at the United Nations by Member States last September. The Pact recognizes the crucial role of science and technology cooperation to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and supercharging progress around the world.

We need your insights and expertise in this important task. Together, let’s harness the power of science to build a more peaceful, sustainable and healthy future for all.

(United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ messages on the International Day of Clean Energy and to the General Assembly of the International Science Council on 26 January 2025.)