ABU DHABI — During the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025, Francesco la Camera, the director General of the International renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), shed light on the transformative potential of renewable energy in Central asia. In a candid discussion, he stressed the importance of regional interconnectivity as a cornerstone for enduring energy development.
Francesco La Camera engaging wiht journalists at ADSW 2025 on January 16. Photo credit: IRENA
La Camera underscored Central Asia’s unique ability to slash electricity costs, produce green hydrogen, and even export renewable energy to Europe. “The region is a goldmine for clean energy,” he remarked, adding that solar and wind resources remain largely untapped.
Why Interconnectivity Matters
Table of Contents
- 1. Why Interconnectivity Matters
- 2. The Road Ahead
- 3. Central Asia’s Green Energy Potential
- 4. China’s Dominance in Renewable Innovation
- 5. The Power of Global Collaboration
- 6. Kazakhstan’s Role in the Global Energy Transition
- 7. ADSW 2025: Pioneering sustainability and Innovation in Abu Dhabi
- 8. A legacy of Leadership in Sustainability
- 9. what to Expect at ADSW 2025
- 10. Why ADSW Matters
- 11. how did Francesco La Camera envision Central Asia leveraging its renewable energy potential?
- 12. Key Highlights from ADSW 2025
- 13. The Road Ahead
“Interconnectivity is key,” La Camera said, highlighting IRENA’s plans to host an investment forum during Energy Week in Baku this June. “Strengthening regional ties and forging links with Europe’s energy market are vital steps toward a greener future.”
Francesco La Camera emphasizing the role of interconnectivity in renewable energy. Photo credit: IRENA
He pointed to Azerbaijan as a model for progress, citing its commitment to doubling pipeline capacity to Europe. “Recent agreements, such as the one between Albania and Italy facilitated by the UAE’s TAQA, showcase how cross-border energy flows are becoming a reality,” La Camera explained.
By leveraging existing infrastructure, Central Asia could not only meet its own energy needs but also become a major exporter to Europe. “Infrastructure drives investment and reduces electricity costs,” he noted. “this region has the potential to become a renewable energy powerhouse.”
The Road Ahead
La Camera painted a radiant future for Central Asia, emphasizing its vast solar and wind resources. “The opportunities here are immense,” he said. “With the right investments and partnerships, this region could lead the global transition to clean energy.”
As the world grapples with climate change, Central Asia’s renewable energy potential offers a beacon of hope. By fostering interconnectivity and investing in infrastructure, the region stands poised to play a pivotal role in the global energy landscape.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, renewable energy is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity. Francesco La Camera, a prominent voice in the green energy sector, recently shed light on the transformative potential of renewable technologies, especially in regions like Central Asia and global leaders such as China.
Central Asia’s Green Energy Potential
La Camera highlighted Central Asia’s untapped potential for renewable energy, especially in green hydrogen production. “The region has an abundance of land to install solar plants—unlike countries like Italy, where space is limited. Central Asia has the potential to produce green hydrogen and embrace a new energy system,” he said.
He emphasized that the global energy landscape is shifting irreversibly toward renewables, with green hydrogen and sustainable biomass playing supportive roles.“We are transitioning to a system dominated by renewables. It’s vital for countries and markets to recognize this shift, adapt, and maximize the benefits of this conversion,” La Camera stated.
According to him, Central Asia is beginning to grasp how renewables can lead to lower energy costs and increased energy security, marking a meaningful step forward in the region’s energy evolution.
China’s Dominance in Renewable Innovation
La Camera also praised China’s leadership in renewable energy and storage technologies. “Fifteen years ago, Beijing was covered in smog—you couldn’t even see the sun. China recognized the urgency to change and shifted decisively toward renewable energy. Today, it leads the world in technologies like battery storage, electric vehicles, and circular economy practices,” he said.
China’s breakthroughs in energy storage, including ultra-fast charging for electric vehicles, were also a focal point. “Chinese innovation is now setting benchmarks globally. They’ve gone from being perceived as followers to becoming leaders in green technology,” La Camera noted.
He added that while fossil fuels remain part of the energy mix, the transition to renewables demands strategic investments in infrastructure, storage solutions, and grid modernization.
The Power of Global Collaboration
La Camera underscored the importance of international cooperation in building sustainable energy systems. He stressed the need for public awareness and joint efforts among nations to create an inclusive and resilient renewable energy ecosystem.
“We must sensitize people to this new reality. The energy transition is happening, and it’s up to governments, businesses, and society to align with it and ensure they benefit from this transformation,” he said.
Kazakhstan’s Role in the Global Energy Transition
on January 14, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Summit, where he addressed pressing global challenges such as climate change, desertification, extreme weather, and food insecurity. During his visit, Tokayev held meetings with government officials, business leaders—including representatives from Masdar and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company—and top AI experts, further solidifying Kazakhstan’s commitment to sustainable development.
ADSW 2025: Pioneering sustainability and Innovation in Abu Dhabi
Under the esteemed patronage of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025 is set to take place from January 12 to 18 in the vibrant city of abu Dhabi. Hosted by Masdar, this event marks another milestone in the global journey toward a sustainable future. For over 15 years, ADSW has stood as a beacon for addressing pressing environmental challenges, uniting diverse sectors, and sparking groundbreaking solutions to drive a greener, more resilient world.
A legacy of Leadership in Sustainability
since its inception, ADSW has evolved into a premier platform for sustainability discourse. It has consistently brought together thought leaders, innovators, and policymakers from across the globe to tackle critical issues such as climate change, renewable energy, and resource conservation. The event’s ability to foster cross-sector collaboration has been instrumental in accelerating the development and deployment of innovative technologies and practices.
“ADSW 2025 is not just a conference; it’s a movement,” remarked a spokesperson from Masdar. “It’s about creating actionable strategies that can be implemented on a global scale to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.”
what to Expect at ADSW 2025
This year’s edition promises to be more impactful than ever,with a diverse lineup of activities designed to inspire change and drive progress. From high-level panel discussions and interactive workshops to cutting-edge exhibitions and networking opportunities, ADSW 2025 will offer something for everyone passionate about sustainability.
Key topics on the agenda include:
- The role of technology in achieving net-zero emissions
- Scaling up renewable energy solutions
- Building resilient infrastructure for a changing climate
- Empowering communities through sustainable practices
Participants will also have the chance to explore groundbreaking innovations showcased by leading companies and startups, providing a glimpse into the future of sustainability.
Why ADSW Matters
In a world grappling with environmental crises, initiatives like ADSW are more crucial than ever. The event serves as a reminder that sustainability is not just a buzzword but a collective responsibility. By fostering dialog and collaboration, ADSW empowers individuals and organizations to take meaningful action toward a greener planet.
As the countdown to ADSW 2025 begins, the anticipation is palpable. This event is not just a weeklong gathering; it’s a catalyst for change, a platform for innovation, and a testament to the power of unity in addressing the most pressing challenges of our time.
how did Francesco La Camera envision Central Asia leveraging its renewable energy potential?
The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal event in the global sustainability calendar. Under the esteemed patronage of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this week-long event, hosted by Masdar, will bring together leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from around the world to discuss and advance renewable energy, climate action, and sustainable advancement.
Key Highlights from ADSW 2025
- Francesco la Camera’s Vision for Central Asia
During ADSW 2025, francesco La Camera, the Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), emphasized the transformative potential of renewable energy in Central Asia. He highlighted the region’s untapped solar and wind resources, wich could significantly reduce electricity costs, produce green hydrogen, and even export renewable energy to Europe. “The region is a goldmine for clean energy,” he remarked, stressing the importance of regional interconnectivity and infrastructure development to unlock this potential.
- The Importance of Regional Interconnectivity
La Camera underscored the critical role of interconnectivity in driving renewable energy adoption. He pointed to Azerbaijan as a model, citing its efforts to double pipeline capacity to Europe. Additionally, he highlighted cross-border energy agreements, such as the one between Albania and Italy, facilitated by the UAE’s TAQA, as examples of how energy flows across borders are becoming a reality. He emphasized that strengthening regional ties and linking Central Asia with Europe’s energy market are vital steps toward a greener future.
- China’s leadership in Renewable innovation
La Camera also praised china for its remarkable progress in renewable energy and storage technologies. He noted that China has transitioned from being a follower to a global leader in green technology, particularly in areas like battery storage, electric vehicles, and circular economy practices. “Chinese innovation is now setting benchmarks globally,” he stated.
- Kazakhstan’s Commitment to Sustainability
President Kassym-Jomart tokayev of Kazakhstan attended the summit, emphasizing the country’s commitment to sustainable development. During his visit, he engaged with goverment officials, business leaders, and top AI experts to discuss strategies for addressing global challenges such as climate change, desertification, and food insecurity.
- the Role of Global Collaboration
la Camera called for international cooperation to build sustainable energy systems.He stressed the need for public awareness and joint efforts among nations to create an inclusive and resilient renewable energy ecosystem. “We must sensitize people to this new reality,” he saeid, highlighting the importance of aligning governments, businesses, and society with the ongoing energy transition.
The Road Ahead
Central Asia’s renewable energy potential offers a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change. With the right investments,partnerships,and infrastructure,the region could become a global leader in clean energy. Events like ADSW 2025 provide a platform for fostering these collaborations and driving the world toward a greener, more sustainable future.
As the world grapples with the urgency of climate action, initiatives like those discussed at ADSW 2025 underscore the importance of innovation, interconnectivity, and collective effort in shaping a resilient energy landscape for generations to come.
