Antalya:UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a warning that 'clogged' electricity networks are hindering the global shift towards clean energy. He called on governments and financial institutions to expedite infrastructure expansion during the COP31 climate summit in Antalya, Turkey.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Guterres emphasized the critical role of electricity grids in the energy transition, likening them to arteries that are currently clogged. He highlighted that approximately 3,000 gigawatts of renewable energy and battery projects are stalled due to pending grid connections.

Guterres pointed out the disparity in investment, where clean energy now receives $2 for every $1 invested in fossil fuels. However, he noted the lengthy process of building transmission lines, which can take up to 15 years, compared to just one year for a solar farm.

He stressed the importance of constructing or upgrading over 80 million kilometers of power lines by 2040 to meet electrification goals. This includes modernizing systems to be smarter and more resilient, as well as promoting cross-border connections to enhance energy security and reduce costs.

The Global Grids Accelerator, launched in September, is intended to unite UN agencies, governments, and private investors to facilitate network modernization. Guterres also highlighted how geopolitical conflicts can impact energy costs in fossil-fuel-dependent economies, while renewables offer a cheaper and more secure alternative.

He urged governments to prioritize grids through long-term planning and called on financial institutions to increase global grid investment by 50% by 2030. Guterres concluded by stating that the clean energy transition is gaining momentum and that the grids supporting it must do the same.