IRENA unveils new initiative to accelerate youth-led renewable energy projects, start-ups

IRENA unveils new initiative to accelerate youth-led renewable energy projects, start-ups

Abu Dhabi: The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) today launched a new initiative aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs and innovators in driving the renewable energy transition. The IRENA NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator (NewGen) will provide capacity building, mentorship and other resources to youth-led projects and start-ups that are developing innovative solutions aimed at advancing the adoption of renewable energy at the global level. IRENA’s initiative, supported by the UAE, was revealed during the Youth Energy Forum at the World Utilities Congress, which was held by the TAQA Youth Council in Abu Dhabi. The initiative is being developed in collaboration with Social Alpha, a non-profit organisation based in India that supports social start-ups, and Enel Foundation, a global non-profit organisation focused on supporting the development of studies and research mainly in the energy field. As knowledge partners, Social Alpha and Enel Foundation will provide technical expertise and mentorship to help young entrepreneurs and innovators succeed. “The rapid transition to renewable energy is crucial for the future of our planet, and young entrepreneurs are playing a vital role in powering this change. By launching NewGen, we are empowering a new generation of renewable energy leaders with the resources they need to tackle