International Solar Alliance (ISA)

International Solar Alliance (ISA) – Key Points: 

Launch: The International Solar Alliance was launched jointly by India and France in 2015 during the COP21 (Paris Climate Conference).

 Headquarters: Located at Gurugram, Haryana, India — making it the first international intergovernmental organization headquartered in India.

 Objective: To promote solar energy deployment across member countries. To reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable energy solutions. To mobilize over $1 trillion in investments for solar energy by 2030.

 Membership: Open to all countries that are members of the United Nations. Initially focused on countries lying between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, which receive abundant sunlight. As of now, over 120 countries have signed the ISA Framework Agreement.

 Key Initiatives: “One Sun, One World, One Grid” – to create a global solar power grid. Solar Technology and Application Resource Centres (STAR-C): for capacity building and R&D. Scaling Solar Mini-Grids and Solar Pumps Programme to aid rural electrification and agriculture.

 Financing and Partnerships: Works with global financial institutions like the World Bank, ADB, and Green Climate Fund for funding solar projects. Aims to make solar power affordable and accessible in developing nations.

 Significance: Promotes climate action and supports the goals of the Paris Agreement. Enhances energy security and reduces carbon emissions. Strengthens South-South cooperation in renewable energy.

 India’s Role: Acts as a founding member and host nation. Provides leadership, training, and technology support to other member countries.