The International Solar Alliance, a gathering of 116 member countries formed to accelerate the global adoption of solar technology, will for the first-time compile and release a ‘global stock take report’.

This is inspired by the first ever ‘global stocktake’ of the United Nations conference of parties, scheduled to be held in Dubai later this year.

The countries are expected to give an account of the actions taken until now to transition their economies away from fossil fuel and lay out plans to course correct.

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an intergovernmental organization that focuses on promoting solar energy and fostering cooperation among countries to harness solar power for sustainable development. Here are some key points about the International Solar Alliance:

1. Formation: The ISA was launched on November 30, 2015, during the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Paris, France. It was initiated by India and France.
2. Objectives: The primary objectives of the ISA are to promote solar energy as a clean, affordable, and sustainable source of energy. The alliance aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change by expanding the use of solar power.
3. Membership: Membership in the ISA is open to countries located between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. These countries, often referred to as the "solar belt," receive abundant sunlight throughout the year.
4. Cooperation: The ISA encourages cooperation among its member countries in various areas related to solar energy, including technology development, capacity building, and sharing best practices. It provides a platform for member nations to collaborate on solar projects and initiatives.
5. Solar Project Development: The alliance focuses on mobilizing investments for solar projects, particularly in developing countries within its membership. It aims to support the development of solar infrastructure, making it more accessible and affordable.
6. Reduction of Solar Energy Costs: One of the goals of the ISA is to lower the cost of solar technology and solar electricity, making it more economically viable for a wider range of applications.
7. Research and Development: The ISA supports research and development efforts in the field of solar energy, with the aim of advancing solar technology and increasing its efficiency.
8. Capacity Building: The alliance provides training and capacity-building programs to enhance the skills and expertise of individuals and organizations involved in the solar energy sector.
9. Global Impact: The ISA's efforts contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas such as affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13).

The International Solar Alliance plays a significant role in the global transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources by harnessing the abundant solar energy potential in tropical regions.

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) holds significant importance in the context of addressing global energy and environmental challenges.

Here are some of the key significances of the ISA:

1. Promotion of Solar Energy: The ISA serves as a global platform dedicated to the promotion of solar energy. By focusing on the abundant solar resources in the tropical regions, it aims to reduce the world's dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.
2. Access to Clean and Affordable Energy: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy. By facilitating the adoption of solar technology, the ISA contributes to providing access to clean and affordable energy, especially in developing countries. This is essential for economic development and improving the quality of life for many people.
3. Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Solar energy is a crucial part of the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting the use of solar power, the ISA helps combat climate change by reducing carbon emissions and supporting the goals outlined in international climate agreements such as the Paris Agreement.
4. Economic Development: The development of the solar energy sector can lead to job creation and economic growth. It encourages investment in renewable energy projects, manufacturing, and research and development, fostering economic development in member countries.
5. Technology Transfer and Collaboration: The ISA encourages member countries to collaborate on solar projects and share technology and expertise. This facilitates technology transfer, capacity building, and the dissemination of best practices, enabling faster advancements in the field of solar energy.
6. Energy Security: By diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the ISA enhances energy security for its member countries. It reduces vulnerability to energy supply disruptions and price fluctuations associated with fossil fuels.
7. Sustainable Development Goals: The ISA's efforts align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7) and Climate Action (SDG 13). The organization's work contributes to achieving these global objectives.
8. South-South Cooperation: The ISA provides a platform for South-South cooperation, where countries from the Global South can share knowledge, resources, and experiences to collectively advance the use of solar energy.
9. Global Collaboration: The ISA brings together a diverse group of countries with varying levels of technological and economic development. This global collaboration promotes mutual learning and aids in addressing global energy challenges.
10. Long-Term Sustainability: As the world transitions to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, the ISA's focus on solar energy positions it as a critical player in the long-term sustainability of the planet. It encourages investment in a renewable resource with virtually unlimited potential.

In summary, the International Solar Alliance is significant for its role in promoting clean, sustainable, and affordable solar energy on a global scale, contributing to environmental protection, economic development, and the mitigation of climate change. It represents a collaborative effort to address some of the world's most pressing challenges related to energy and the environment.

India has played a central and pioneering role in the establishment and promotion of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

Here's how India is connected to the ISA:

1. Founding Member: India was one of the founding members of the International Solar Alliance. It was actively involved in the conceptualization, formation, and launching of the alliance.
2. Initiator: India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took a proactive role in proposing the idea of an international organization dedicated to solar energy during the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 2015. It partnered with France in this endeavour.
3. COP21 Announcement: The ISA was formally launched on the sidelines of COP21 in Paris, with India and France jointly announcing and championing the initiative. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a crucial role in advocating for the alliance's formation.
4. Leadership: India has played a significant role in providing leadership to the ISA. India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has been actively involved in coordinating and supporting ISA's activities.
5. Headquarters: The ISA's headquarters are located in Gurugram, India. This reflects India's commitment to the alliance and its role as a key hub for solar energy-related activities.
6. Financial Commitment: India has committed to providing financial support to the ISA by setting up a corpus fund, which is intended to assist the alliance in its activities and projects.
7. Capacity Building: India has been actively engaged in capacity building and sharing technical expertise in the solar sector with other member countries. It has provided training and assistance to help develop solar energy infrastructure.
8. Domestic Solar Initiatives: India has also been advancing its domestic solar energy goals and initiatives, which align with the objectives of the ISA. India has set ambitious targets for expanding solar energy capacity and has implemented policies and programs to promote solar energy adoption within the country.

India's active involvement in the International Solar Alliance reflects its commitment to sustainable and renewable energy sources, as well as its recognition of the importance of solar energy in addressing global energy and climate challenges. Through the ISA, India has provided a platform for cooperation and knowledge sharing among countries to accelerate the adoption of solar power on a global scale.