A world powered by renewables is not only possible - it can also be more affordable and better for people and the planet. Yet today, the world faces a dual challenge: advancing human well-being while mitigating the environmental consequences of fossil-fuel-driven development. Decades of dependence on fossil fuels have improved various aspects of human development while also driving significant climate change. Achieving a balance between meeting human needs and preserving the environment requires a new direction, one that aligns development with a just transition that limits global temperature rise to 1.5°C.

Ambitious renewable energy targets in national climate plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), are widely recognized for their development benefits. But what if these targets were made even more ambitious and supported by broader policy measures that facilitate a just transition? What would be the quantifiable benefits for both climate and development? This report quantifies the benefits of greater ambition, showing how scaling up renewables can drive economic growth, enhance productivity, and improve social well-being while accelerating climate action. 

The evidence is clear: when climate commitments are paired with a coordinated policy approach, clean energy expansion is transformative. We make the case for policymakers to set ambitious renewable energy targets in NDCs for a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future.