Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday addressed global leaders at the COP29 summit, pledging Georgia’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 through “comprehensive energy and climate policies” that he said include legislative reforms, investments in renewable energy, and improved energy efficiency standards.
Kobakhidze outlined several key initiatives underway as part of Georgia’s strategy to meet global climate goals. “We are expanding renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and aligning our policies with international climate targets,” he said, citing the recent update of Georgia’s Law on Energy Efficiency of Buildings, which now adheres to “stricter EU standards for construction”.
In partnership with the European Union, Georgia enacted its Energy Efficiency Law in 2022, accompanied by 15 supporting by-laws to curb energy use, the PM said.
He further announced additional updates to building standards took effect, alongside the passage of the Renewable Energy Law, designed to boost sustainable energy production by 2024.
Plans for regulating biofuels and certifying renewable energy installers are also in development, with full implementation expected by 2025, the PM noted.
He stressed “flagship projects” such as the Black Sea submarine electricity cable and fibre-optic connection, combined with expanded ferry-feeder services, underscored Georgia’s ambition to strengthen regional energy connectivity.
“These initiatives will facilitate renewable energy exchange across South Caucasus countries and the EU, enhancing regional energy independence and security,” Kobakhidze added. The submarine cable, in particular, aims to diversify the energy mix and bolster resilience against geopolitical risks, he noted.
“Additionally, Georgia’s Green Growth Strategy, launched with support from the World Bank in 2023, is exploring green hydrogen opportunities, with financing from KfW and the Asian Development Bank. Through this and other measures, Georgia aims to reach a 27.4% renewable energy share and a 47% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, in line with the country’s Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP)”, the official said.
Looking ahead, Kobakhidze underscored the importance of international support for developing nations at COP29, including essential financial and technical assistance. “This support will drive renewable projects, build capacity, and align our carbon pricing with EU standards,” he said.
