Conclusion of the Statute of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) by the EU

This Proposal for a Council Decision concerns the signing and provisional application of the Statute of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) by the European Community.

On 26 January 2009, the Statute of the International Renewable Energy Agency was signed at the Founding Conference in Bonn by 75 States, including 20 EU Member States. According to the Statute, the objective of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is to promote the widespread and increased adoption as well as the sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy, taking into account national and domestic priorities and benefits derived from a combined approach of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, and the contribution of renewable energy to: (i) environmental preservation, through limiting pressure on natural resources and reducing deforestation, particularly tropical deforestation, desertification and biodiversity loss; (ii) climate protection; (iii) economic growth and social cohesion including poverty alleviation and sustainable development; (iv) access to and security of energy supply; (v) regional development; and (vi) inter-generational responsibility.

Both the European Community and its Member States have competence in the areas covered by the Statute. Certain obligations, provided for by the Statute, affect or are likely to affect the arrangements laid down by Community acts adopted regarding the environment and energy.

In view of its entry into force only on the thirtieth day after the deposit of the twenty-fifth instrument of ratification, and in view of the Statute remaining open for signature until that time, the Statute should be signed on behalf of the European Community in accordance with its Article XIX A. Considering that at the Founding Conference of IRENA in January 2009 a Preparatory Commission for IRENA was established, which is intended to ensure the rapid and effective establishment of IRENA, including by establishing an interim work programme and budget, it is considered beneficial to fully participate in IRENA activities from signature. The Statute should be applied on a provisional basis from 1 June 2009.