At UN climate talks, 5 nations back plan to double rooftop solar panels by 2030

Five countries have backed a voluntary plan to double the number of homes worldwide with rooftop solar panels by 2030, from about 150 million to at least 300 million. Launched at the COP31 climate talks in Turkey, the declaration aims to widen access to electricity and support a shift away from fossil fuels, amid concerns about climate impacts and rising energy costs.

Australia, Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria and Vanuatu endorsed the plan; lawmakers from 21 other countries, including the UK, and Indonesia’s state-owned power company also backed it. The declaration is non-binding, and experts say progress will depend on national policies, grid upgrades and support for panels and batteries. Turkey is also promoting a goal for electricity to reach 35% of global energy use by 2035, while coal still provides 33% of Turkey’s electricity and more than 40% of Australia’s.