IEA Ministers invite Latvia to become Agency’s 32nd member

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Ministers representing the IEA member countries today unanimously invited Latvia to become the Agency’s 32nd member, endorsing the steps the country has taken throughout its accession journey.

Gathering at the IEA’s 2024 Ministerial Meeting, which also marks the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the IEA, ministers recognised that Latvia met all the requirements for IEA membership in record time since its initial expression of interest in 2022.

“Latvia has closely observed the remarkable work of the IEA in collaboration with governments and industry, and we particularly value the analytical capabilities of the IEA,” said Latvia’s Minister of Climate and Energy Kaspars Melnis. We stand proud and honoured to become 32nd member of this esteemed organisation, dedicated to promoting international energy cooperation. It will provide us new tools and opportunities to better identify and implement solutions for green transition.”

To date, the IEA Family includes 31 member countries, four other Accession countries and 13 Association countries, which together account for some 80% of global energy consumption, up from less than 40% in 2015.

“I am delighted that Latvia is joining the IEA as a member country,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “Latvia’s commitment to the IEA is exemplary with the country having completed the accession process at a rapid pace. At a time of heightened concerns around energy security, not least in Europe, the IEA Family is strengthening and Latvia’s membership is a fitting way to mark the IEA’s 50 Anniversary.”

Among its priorities, Latvia will continue its work to reduce dependency on energy imports and develop policy solutions for sustainable, clean and affordable energy. To meet these dual objectives, the country has been increasing its share of renewable energy with over 75% of Latvia’s electricity generation coming from renewable sources.

The creation of a new Ministry of Climate and Energy in January 2023 will further support Latvia’s climate and energy goals by ensuring a systematic approach in government to policymaking and implementation. Latvia is also in the process of updating its National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030, in line with more ambitious European Union climate and energy transition targets.