International Solar Alliance, Members, Headquarters, ISA Summit 2025

International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a collaborative initiative that has aimed at accelerating the adoption of solar energy worldwide so that we can combat climate change, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and promote sustainable development.

This alliance was established in 2015, the ISA has grown to become a key player in the global renewable energy landscape. Since its inception, this alliance has played a key role in driving global efforts to transition toward clean and renewable energy. ISA Automation Summit & Expo (ASE) is scheduled for October 5-7, 2025.

What is the International Solar Alliance?

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a treaty-based intergovernmental organization. India and France conceptualized this alliance during the COP21 Paris Climate Conference in 2015. The ISA is committed to deploying solar energy solutions on a huge scale, especially in nations with high solar insolation. With its goal of mobilizing more than USD 1 trillion in investments by 2030, the alliance focuses on reducing costs, promoting innovation, and achieving climate resilience.

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ISA Summit 2025

The ISA Summit 2025, officially known as the ISA Automation Summit & Expo (ASE), is set to take place from October 5–7, 2025, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. This event is designed for professionals working in automation, cybersecurity, and innovation, especially those in management roles. It will cover important topics like artificial intelligence, robotics, industrial control systems, digital transformation, and cybersecurity standards such as ISA/IEC 62443. Here is the list of key ISA governance meetings for 2025:

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International Solar Alliance Origins and Milestones

The International Solar Alliance was established during the COP 21 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris on November 30, 2015, by India and France. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President François Hollande inaugurated the initiative while highlighting the critical role of solar energy in combating climate change.

The ISA was officially launched by signing the Framework Agreement on December 15, 2017 , making it one of the first international organizations headquartered in India.

Following a 2020 amendment , all UN member states can join, expanding the alliance's global footprint. This makes ISA one of the most inclusive renewable energy organizations in the world.

International Solar Alliance Headquarters

The headquarters of the International Solar Alliance is located at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) campus in Gurugram, Haryana, India. This strategic location reflects India’s commitment to renewable energy and its leadership in promoting global solar energy adoption.

International Solar Alliance Members and Growing Global Representation

Initially, the ISA focused on nations that lie fully or partially between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, where sunlight is plentiful. The alliance was limited to countries within these tropical regions, but it was later expanded to include all UN member states , irrespective of geographic location.

International Solar Alliance Total Members

Currently, 120 countries are the current members and 18 signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement, with 106 countries having ratified it, which makes them full-fledged members. These member countries span diverse geographies, highlighting the ISA’s universal appeal and relevance. Here is the list of 106 members of ISA:

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Objectives of ISA

The International Solar Alliance has well-defined objectives to promote solar energy use on the global level. Key goals include:

1. Scaling Solar Energy Deployment: Promote large-scale adoption of solar technologies.
2. Financial Mobilization: Unlock USD 1 trillion in investments by 2030 to support solar projects.
3. Reducing Costs: Lower solar technology costs and financing through aggregated demand.
4. Capacity Building: Train professionals and build technical expertise in member nations.
5. Focus on Vulnerable Regions: Deliver impactful solutions in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) .
6. Address Climate Goals: Mitigate 1,000 million tonnes of CO₂ annually by deploying 1,000 GW of solar capacity.

By achieving these objectives, the ISA aims to create a global solar revolution that will contribute to climate resilience and sustainable development.

Vision and Mission of the International Solar Alliance

Vision

"Let us together make the sun brighter." The International Solar Alliance anticipates a future where solar energy drives low-carbon development, enhances energy security and ensures a sustainable planet for all.

Mission

"Every home, no matter how far away, will have a light at home." The International Solar Alliance’s mission, represented in its "Towards 1000" strategy , includes:

• Mobilizing USD 1 trillion for solar projects by 2030 .
• Providing clean energy access to 1 billion people .
• Installing 1,000 GW of solar energy capacity .

Key Initiatives and Achievements of the ISA

The International Solar Alliance has led multiple and various impactful initiatives and achieved many milestones. These efforts have significantly advanced solar adoption globally, mobilizing investment and promoting collaboration among nations.

Programmatic Approach

ISA has developed nine core programs , each targeting specific solar energy applications to scale up deployment effectively. Key initiatives include:

• Affordable Finance at Scale: ISA works to reduce the cost of solar projects by mobilizing affordable financing.
• Scaling Solar Applications: Initiatives like solar water pumps for irrigation and solar mini-grids for rural electrification aim to transform the energy landscape in member countries.
• Solar Parks and Infrastructure: Facilitating large-scale solar parks and grid infrastructure in member nations.
• Capacity Building Programs: Training and certification programs to strengthen the solar workforce globally.
• Solar Risk Mitigation Initiative: Mitigating risks associated with solar projects to attract private investment.

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Notable Achievements

• Facilitated grants for SIDS and LDCs to support pilot solar projects.
• Collaborated with global financial institutions to launch innovative financial mechanisms like the Solar Finance Facility .
• Established the STAR-C (Solar Technology and Application Resource Centre) to build capacity and enhance solar energy research.
• Facilitated the deployment of solar energy systems in developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia.
• Mobilized billions of dollars in investments for solar projects through collaborations with international financial institutions.
• Partnered with organizations like the World Bank and the United Nations to amplify its impact on the global stage.

ISA at COP (Pioneering Global Advocacy)

ISA has increasingly showcased its leadership at major climate events such as COP27 and COP28 . At these summits, ISA introduced groundbreaking initiatives like:

• SolarX Startup Challenge: This will surely encourage entrepreneurship in solar technologies.
• Ease of Doing Solar (EoDS): A tool to simplify solar adoption for member countries.
• The Solar Hub Pavilion: Such a dynamic platform established for discussions, innovations, and policy recommendations on solar energy.

ISA’s presence at COP29 is anticipated to further its mission particularly aligns with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Challenges Facing the International Solar Alliance

Despite its impressive success, the ISA faces challenges such as:

1. Funding Constraints: Many nations struggle to mobilize the required investments for solar projects.
2. Technology Gaps: Limited access to cutting-edge solar technology in developing countries.
3. Policy and Regulatory Issues: Differences in energy policies across member states hinder unified action.
4. Geopolitical Issues: Political instability in some regions affects project implementation and cooperation.

Significance of the International Solar Alliance for UPSC Aspirants

For aspirants who are preparing for UPSC , the International Solar Alliance is a critical topic under the environment, energy, and international relations sections. Understanding what is an International Solar Alliance , its objectives, and its achievements provides insights into India's leadership in global climate action.

Key facts to note:

• ISA’s establishment during COP21 in Paris (2015) .
• Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana, India.
• Mission: Mobilizing USD 1 trillion for solar investments.
• ISA’s impact on global energy policies and climate action.

This knowledge is vital for topics like sustainable development, renewable energy, and international organizations.

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Conclusion

The International Solar Alliance is a testament to the power of global collaboration in addressing one of humanity's greatest challenges: climate change. By promoting solar energy adoption, mobilizing investments, and building capacities, the ISA is paving the way for a sustainable energy future. Its mission to provide clean energy access, mitigate carbon emissions, and foster low-carbon growth makes it an indispensable player in achieving global sustainability goals.

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