About the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is a worldwide inter-governmental organisation with a goal of promoting the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy.
IRENA is governed by a 21 Member Council and General Assembly, and modelled in accord with the principles and processes of the United Nations.
According to the IRENA Statute, IRENA strives to be a centre of excellence for renewable energy technology. It aims to act as a facilitator and catalyst to provide experience for practical applications and policies, offer support on all matters relating to renewable energy, and help countries to benefit from the efficient development and transfer of knowledge and technology.
IRENA will disseminate information and increase public awareness on the benefits and potential offered by renewable energy. IRENA also provides policy advice, on request, to member governments on how they can increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix.
How is RET involved?
The Department of Resources Energy and Tourism (RET) is responsible for managing Australia’s participation in IRENA.
Timeline
IRENA was founded in Bonn, Germany on 26 January 2009.
The Hon. Martin Ferguson, Minister for Resources Energy and Tourism, signed the Statute of IRENA on behalf of the Australian Government on 29 June 2009, at the Second IRENA Preparatory Commission in Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt.
Related pages
More information
For more information about the International Renewable Energy Agency go to the IRENA website.