Berlin is set to host the 11th Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue (BETD), one of the world’s most influential platforms on global energy transition.
The two days high-profile event, scheduled to take place at the Federal Foreign Office, between Tuesday March 19 and Wednesday March 20, 2025 will bring together over 2,000 participants from more than 100 countries, including government officials, business leaders, academics, and civil society representatives.
The BETD, organized by the German Renewable Energy Federation (BEE), the German Solar Association (BSW), the German Energy Agency (dena), and consulting firm eclareon, will focus on accelerating global energy transition through coordinated international action, innovative approaches, and effective financial support.
It will particularly address how to mobilize investment for green growth in emerging markets and developing economies.
Since its inception in 2015, the BETD has evolved into a leading global forum for the energy transition, facilitating direct engagement among high-ranking government representatives, global business leaders, scientists, and leaders of international organizations and NGOs.
The conference enables key decision-makers to engage in dialogue, share best practices, tackle urgent challenges, and forge energy partnerships.
Urgency of Energy Transition
The global energy landscape is undergoing a significant shift. Sustainable energy sources are expanding at record rates and are projected to surpass coal as the largest source of electricity by the end of 2025.
However, the pace of transition remains uneven across regions, highlighting the need for broader momentum and strategic international cooperation.
According to experts, the success of the energy transition hinges on meeting the targets set at COP28: tripling renewable energy capacity, doubling energy efficiency, and transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Achieving these goals requires a combination of political will, technological innovation, and robust financial mechanisms.
“The transition to a renewable energy future is not only essential for combating climate change but also for driving economic growth and creating employment,” a spokesperson for the German Federal Foreign Office stated.
“A renewables-based energy system can generate skilled jobs, enhance local prosperity, and create a more resilient and decentralized energy supply.”
Focus on Emerging Markets and Developing Economies
A key highlight of the 11th BETD will be the focus on investment in emerging markets and developing economies.
Despite growing global momentum for renewable energy, many developing regions face challenges in accessing capital, technology, and expertise needed to transition to clean energy.
The BETD will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore practical solutions to these barriers.
Discussions will center on creating enabling environments for renewable energy investment, securing financial commitments, and promoting cross-border energy partnerships.
According to a statement from the organizers “The energy transition is not just about meeting climate targets; it’s about creating a more just and equitable global energy system.
“Emerging markets and developing economies must not be left behind in this shift.”
Building Alliances for a Just Transition
The dialogue will emphasize the importance of building alliances and fostering cooperation across sectors and regions.
It will showcase successful renewable energy projects, policy innovations, and financing models that can be replicated globally.
Participants are expected to engage in high-level bilateral meetings, roundtable discussions, and networking sessions aimed at forging new partnerships and accelerating climate action.
The conference will also highlight the role of the private sector in driving clean energy investments and technological advancements.
“The BETD has become a key space for countries and industries to align their strategies and drive collective action on energy transition,” said a representative from the German Renewable Energy Federation. “It’s not just about dialogue it’s about converting ideas into concrete action.”
An energy transition based entirely on renewable sources is no longer a distant vision but an achievable reality.
The 11th BETD aims to reinforce the message that transitioning to a renewable energy future is not only necessary but also economically viable and socially beneficial.
The stakes are high. Beyond addressing the climate crisis, a shift to renewable energy has the potential to transform global economies, strengthen energy security, and improve public health outcomes.
As countries prepare for the next phase of the energy transition, the BETD will serve as a critical forum for aligning global strategies and accelerating progress towards a sustainable energy future.
The dialogue will conclude with a roadmap for coordinated action, underscoring the need for sustained political commitment, strategic investment, and international cooperation to achieve a just and equitable global energy transition.
By Dare Akogun