Clean Energy Ministerial and Mission Innovation: Leading the Charge to Net-Zero

The global transition to a clean energy future took a significant step forward as U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm joined international leaders at the 15th Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM15) and 9th Mission Innovation Ministerial (MI-9). Held from September 30 to October 3, 2024, in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, alongside the G20, the event showcased global collaboration, innovation, and commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.

Understanding CEM and MI

The Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and Mission Innovation (MI) are two complementary global coalitions aimed at accelerating the clean energy transition. While CEM focuses on scaling and deploying clean energy technologies in the market, MI emphasizes innovation, research, and development. Together, these initiatives work towards actionable solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

Since their inception in 2009 and 2015, respectively, CEM and MI have grown to include over 20 member countries, representing nearly 85% of global GDP. The United States plays a pivotal role in co-leading more than a dozen initiatives, tackling issues such as carbon dioxide removal, clean hydrogen production, industrial deep decarbonization, and promoting inclusivity in energy transitions.

Achievements of CEM15/MI-9

Each year, CEM and MI members convene to assess progress and establish new targets for clean energy innovation and deployment. This year’s ministerial drew over 1,000 participants, including policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers, who engaged in 50 high-level and technical events. These discussions spanned crucial topics like power system regulation, energy storage, industrial decarbonization, carbon management, hydrogen market development, and gender equality in energy transitions.

One of the event’s standout achievements was the formal announcement of the first-ever Joint Ministerial Statement by Brazil’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira. This statement reaffirmed the collective commitment of CEM and MI members to collaborate on practical solutions for achieving global clean energy goals.

U.S. Contributions to the Ministerial

The United States played a leading role at CEM15/MI-9, endorsing the Joint Ministerial Statement and spearheading various initiatives that underscore its commitment to advancing clean energy. Key deliverables included:

CEM/MI Agenda for Action on Power System Solutions
Endorsed by 27 countries and supported by the European Commission, this agenda outlines strategic actions for decarbonizing the global power sector. The initiative focuses on transitioning power systems toward renewable energy sources while ensuring reliability and affordability.
Gigatonne by 2030 Campaign
This groundbreaking joint campaign between CEM and MI aims to manage one gigatonne of carbon dioxide annually by 2030. It brings together various workstreams and missions dedicated to advancing carbon management technologies and projects.
Implementing Inclusivity Framework
Recognizing the importance of equity in the clean energy transition, this framework provides practical guidelines to integrate gender, diversity, and inclusion principles into global energy initiatives. It highlights the importance of inclusive solutions in driving meaningful and sustainable progress.

These initiatives represent just a fraction of the 40 outcomes announced at CEM15/MI-9, each contributing to a comprehensive strategy for tackling climate change and accelerating clean energy transitions.

Collaborative Actions for a Sustainable Future

CEM and MI are uniquely positioned to drive international collaboration in addressing the urgent challenges of climate change. By leveraging the strengths of their member countries, these platforms foster partnerships between governments, private sectors, and academia. Their combined efforts aim to scale up innovative solutions, such as hydrogen markets, AI-powered energy technologies, and advanced energy storage systems.

Preparing for the Future

As the momentum from CEM15/MI-9 carries forward, attention now turns to CEM16/MI-10, which will be hosted by South Korea in 2025. With ambitious goals set for the coming years, the next ministerial promises to build on the successes of this year’s event, further strengthening global collaboration and clean energy innovation.

A Shared Vision for Net-Zero

The outcomes of CEM15/MI-9 highlight the essential role of international cooperation in achieving a sustainable energy future. By aligning efforts across research, innovation, and deployment, CEM and MI provide a robust framework for countries to work collectively toward net-zero emissions. The initiatives launched and reinforced at this year’s ministerial signal a global commitment to turning clean energy ambitions into actionable solutions.

With platforms like CEM and MI leading the charge, the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy system is no longer a distant goal but an achievable reality. Through innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration, the world is moving closer to a net-zero future.

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