BSRIA says it is looking forward to the outcome of the 21st Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP21) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The event, which began in Paris yesterday (30 November), runs until 11 December and brings together world leaders with the aim of reaching an agreement on stabilising the climate and avoiding the worst impacts of climate change.

The conference is expected to be a turning point in the fight against climate change. BSRIA says the energy sector, which accounts for around two-thirds of all global emissions, must be a top priority for action if we are to keep global temperature rise below 2°C.

For the first time at any UN climate conference, renewable energy solutions will be showcased in a series of high-profile events. High-level speakers will share their visions for a future powered by renewable energy.

BSRIA chief executive Julia Evans said: “BSRIA hopes the summit delivers a binding agreement which will deliver a new global climate document. Global warming is a real problem. As an industry we have the skills, technology and the desire to make a difference. We now need government to set the direction to allow industry to play its part in leading this vital global challenge.”

She continued: “In an ideal world, industry would like to be able to demonstrate that renewable energy, together with energy efficiency, offers a realistic path to keep global temperature rise below 2°C. But recent government announcements have suggested a shrinking investment in renewables. We hope discussions in Paris will be the start of a ‘sea-change’ for this.”