IRENA SHOULD DEMONSTRATE ABILITY AS AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL DRIVER FOR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 (Bernama) -- Abu Dhabi-based International Renewable
Energy Agency (IRENA) should maximise its demonstrated ability to convene and
mobilise stakeholders to fulfill its role as an intergovernmental driver for
alternative energy.

The new agency should also collate best practices in renewable energy
development and build upon early work on a renewable energy atlas including
potentials, policies, education and resources to translate its activities into
practical achievements.

The call was made by the Policy and Strategy Committee that reports to the
council of IRENA at its first meeting in Putrajaya on Sept 12-13.

According to a statement released by the Energy, Green Technology and Water
Ministry Monday, it said the agency should play an active role in disseminating
and highlighting renewable energy news, analysis and reviews to member states,
private sector organisations and the general public.

"Participants agreed that IRENA should consolidate early progress to become
a renowned global centre of excellence and a "one stop shop" for renewable
energy analysis and advice over the coming five years," the ministry said.

The next formal council meeting will take place in Abu Dhabi on Nov 13-14
and further information is available on IRENA's website, www.irena.org.