Why in News
Moldova has recently signed the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement, reaffirming its commitment to advancing renewable energy initiatives.
About the International Solar Alliance (ISA):
- Background: The ISA Framework Agreement (FA) came into effect in 2017. A 2020 amendment made all United Nations member states eligible to join the alliance.
- Headquarters: Gurugram, India.
- Origin: The ISA was conceived during COP21 in Paris in 2015 as a joint initiative of India and France.
- Objective: To unite global efforts to combat climate change through the adoption and promotion of solar energy solutions.
- Mission and Strategy: The ISA’s mission is driven by the ‘Towards 1000’ strategy, focusing on three core objectives:
- Mobilizing USD 1,000 billion in solar energy investments by 2030.
- Providing energy access to 1,000 million people globally.
- Facilitating the installation of 1,000 GW of solar energy capacity.
- Governance: The ISA Assembly serves as the apex decision-making body, responsible for formulating policies and overseeing the implementation of the Framework Agreement.
- Membership: The ISA currently has 104 member countries and 16 signatory countries.
Key Initiatives of the International Solar Alliance (ISA):
- Scaling Solar Applications for Agricultural Use (SSAAU): Focuses on meeting the growing demand for solar-powered water pumps to enhance agricultural productivity.
- ISA CARES: Provides reliable and innovative solar energy solutions to support healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries.
- Program on Solarizing Heating and Cooling Systems: Targets the rising need for solar-based solutions to address heating and cooling demands in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
- Global Solar Facility: Launched at COP27, this initiative aims to catalyze solar investments in underserved regions, with a particular focus on Africa.
