Energy Matters: How COP21 can shift the energy sector onto a low-carbon path that supports economic growth and energy access

Energy drives economic growth and social development around the world. It also accounts for around two-thirds of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and so lies at the heart of the climate change challenge. Decision makers gathering in Paris for COP21 must therefore build a climate agreement that makes energy a central part of the solution, shifting operations and investments onto a low-carbon path that continues to support economic growth and development.
Energy Matters outlines how COP21 can shift the energy sector onto a low-carbon path that supports economic growth and energy access:
1. Take five key actions, led by energy efficiency and renewables, to peak then reduce global energy emissions
2. Use the Paris agreement to drive short-term actions consistent with long-term emission goals
3. Accelerate energy technology innovation to make decarbonisation easier and even more affordable
4. Enhance energy security by making the energy sector more resilient to climate change impacts