TEHRAN – Attending the 29th meeting of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Iran's representative underlined the country’s commitment to the expansion of renewable energy sources via taking various measures.

These include growing solar and wind power production capacities and implementing strategies to improve energy efficiency across residential and industrial sectors, IRNA reported.

The 29th IRENA was held on September 11 and 12 in Abu Dhabi, Dubai. Iran participated in the meeting for the first time.

The meeting gathered more than 400 officials from IRENA’s Members, comprising 169 countries and the European Union, to provide strategic guidance on the Agency’s work programme and to address pressing issues shaping today’s global energy transition.

A key highlight for the 29th Council was a programmatic discussion on energy security, exploring pathways to diversify supply chains, support next-generation technologies, and strengthen regional manufacturing capabilities.

The session featured IRENA’s latest analysis on the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape of renewable energy supply chains, with a specific focus on the solar PV sector.

IRENA Members also discussed advancing investments in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), which are recognised as central to decarbonising long-haul aviation by IRENA. The Agency presented its latest work on supporting SAF projects and mobilising investments through its financing platforms, helping countries and developers move projects from concept to bankable ventures.

Iran to boost renewable power capacity

Iran plans to expand its renewable energy capacity to 7,000 megawatts by the next Iranian calendar year, which begins on March 21, 2026, up from current levels, an energy official said.

Jafar Mohammadzadeh, deputy head of investment at the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization (SATBA), told IRIB that the government has accelerated solar and other renewable projects, targeting a sharp increase in output. He noted that the ministry’s plan to add 100 MW each week reflects earlier preparations in the sector.

“Our goal is to raise renewable energy’s share in the country’s electricity mix from the current 1.5 percent to 15 percent by the end of the 14th government’s term,” he said, adding that Iran’s vast solar potential gives the target strong backing.

Mohammadzadeh said peak electricity demand occurs during summer, when solar output is also at its highest, making renewables particularly valuable. He added that small- and large-scale solar projects are being supported through attractive contracts, including long-term guaranteed purchase agreements that allow investors to recover costs in about three years.

He also noted that in the short term, some equipment imports will be required to speed up construction of large-scale plants, with the Ministry of Industry, Mining, and Trade providing support.

MT/MG