The United States has announced its intention to withdraw from the International Renewable Energy Agency following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump, placing IRENA among 66 international organisations targeted for withdrawal. The decision affects bodies largely involved in climate, labour and migration-related work and includes institutions such as the International Solar Alliance and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which the administration has described as redundant, mismanaged or misaligned with US national priorities.
According to the US Department of State, the executive order will result in the cessation of US participation or funding in UN-affiliated organisations, including IRENA, to the extent permitted by law. The move marks a significant shift in US engagement on international climate and renewable energy cooperation and raises concerns about its impact on global efforts to advance clean energy transitions.
In response, IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera expressed regret over the decision and acknowledged the United States’ long-standing role in supporting renewable energy through international collaboration. He подчеркed that renewable energy is now a central economic driver, contributing to competitiveness, lower energy costs, job creation and improved energy security, particularly in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
IRENA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting countries and businesses in accelerating the global transition to renewable energy, with a continued focus on delivering economic, environmental and security benefits, especially for developing regions such as Africa. The organisation, which has 171 member countries, noted that while the US withdrawal is significant, avenues for future cooperation remain open.
