International Solar Alliance Continues Work with 125 Countries for Global Solar Energy Expansion

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) recently reaffirmed that it will continue working with its 125 member and signatory countries to promote solar energy worldwide. The announcement became important after the United States decided to withdraw from the alliance in January 2026.

ISA is a global organisation led by India with France as a key partner. It focuses on expanding solar energy deployment and addressing climate change through renewable energy solutions. The organisation aims to help countries increase solar energy capacity and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Key objectives of ISA include:

• Increasing solar power adoption worldwide
• Mobilising financial investments for solar projects
• Supporting policy frameworks for renewable energy
• Building technical capacity in developing countries

ISA programmes are already operational in more than 95 countries. These programmes support national solar projects, market development, and regulatory reforms.

The alliance gives special attention to:

• Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
• Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

The idea of ISA was first proposed during the Paris Climate Conference (COP21) in 2015. India and France jointly launched the organisation to create a platform for solar-rich countries.

In 2020, the Framework Agreement was amended to allow all United Nations member states to join ISA.

ISA has set an ambitious target of mobilising USD 1 trillion in solar investments by 2030 to expand renewable energy and achieve global energy transition.

🔑 Key Points

• International Solar Alliance is led by India and France.
• ISA was launched during the Paris Climate Summit in 2015.
• Headquarters located in Gurugram, Haryana.
• Membership expanded to all UN countries in 2020.
• Currently includes 125 member and signatory countries.
• Focuses on solar energy deployment and climate action.
• Supports developing countries with finance and technology.
• Aims to mobilise USD 1 trillion solar investments by 2030.

🧠 Concept Link (Very Important)

Renewable Energy and Solar Power

• Renewable energy comes from natural sources that replenish quickly.
• Solar energy is generated using sunlight through photovoltaic cells.
• Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity.
• Solar power reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• Renewable energy supports sustainable development goals.
• Countries adopt solar energy to reduce fossil fuel dependency.

❓ Practice Questions (MCQ)

1.The International Solar Alliance was launched during which event?
A) Rio Earth Summit
B) Paris Climate Conference
C) Kyoto Protocol Summit
D) Glasgow Climate Conference

Answer: B

2.Headquarters of the International Solar Alliance is located in:
A) New Delhi
B) Gurugram
C) Paris
D) Geneva

Answer: B

3.International Solar Alliance was jointly launched by:
A) India and Germany
B) India and USA
C) India and France
D) India and Japan

Answer: C

4.The International Solar Alliance aims to mobilise how much solar investment by 2030?
A) USD 500 billion
B) USD 750 billion
C) USD 1 trillion
D) USD 2 trillion

Answer: C

5.ISA membership was opened to all UN member states in which year?
A) 2018
B) 2019
C) 2020
D) 2022

Answer: C

📜 Previous Year Question (Similar Type)

1.Which international organisation was launched by India to promote solar energy cooperation among tropical countries?

Answer: International Solar Alliance

⚠️ Examiner Trap

Students often confuse International Solar Alliance (ISA) with International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

ISA focuses mainly on solar energy, while IRENA works on all renewable energy sources.

🧭 Exam Tip

Exams frequently ask about ISA headquarters, founding year, founders, and investment target (USD 1 trillion by 2030).

🏷️ Topics Covered

International Solar Alliance
Solar Energy
Climate Change
Renewable Energy
Paris Climate Conference
Energy Transition
Global Energy Cooperation
Developing Countries Support