Electrification Target Requires Fossil Fuel Phase-Out
Greenpeace has welcomed COP31's initiative to achieve a 35 per cent electrification target by 2035 as a positive step, but insists that it must be paired with a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels to meet climate goals.
Announced in Bonn, Germany on 9th June 2026, the electrification push is part of the COP31 Action Agenda. Greenpeace argues that while renewable electrification is crucial, it alone cannot suffice without actively winding down fossil fuel production.
Dr Simon Bradshaw, COP31 Lead at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, emphasised the importance of a comprehensive approach: "Minister Bowen and his Turkish counterpart Minister Kurum must maintain the global momentum towards a phase out of fossil fuels and ensure that a just transition is at the heart of the COP31 agenda."
Impact on the Pacific Region
The Pacific region, heavily impacted by the global fossil fuel crisis, stands to benefit immensely from renewable electrification. Countries in the region face high fuel import costs, equivalent to 25 per cent of GDP. Greenpeace highlights the region's leadership in pushing beyond fossil fuels to become the world’s first fossil fuel-free area.
Greenpeace International's recent report underscores the necessity of a fair and funded transition to renewable energy, calling for decisive political actions and robust policy frameworks.
Berkan Ozyer, Director of Greenpeace Türkiye, pointed out the contradiction in Türkiye's role as COP31 host: "It is a deep contradiction that Türkiye, as COP31 host, is championing a vision of electrification while continuing to keep 37 active coal power plants running and leaving the door open for new projects at home."
Greenpeace urges Australia, as the COP31 President of Negotiations, to lead by example by halting new fossil fuel projects and developing a roadmap away from fossil fuel production.
In April 2026, 57 countries gathered in Santa Marta to discuss the urgency of phasing out fossil fuels. This momentum has been fuelled by the global energy shock caused by the ongoing war on Iran, highlighting the need for a shift to renewable energy.
