COP31 summit targets 35% global electrification by 2035 as 1.5C goal slips

The COP31 climate summit in Türkiye will focus on accelerating global electrification, with a target of 35 percent of the world powered by electricity by 2035, as officials concede global temperatures will rise 2.6 degrees above pre-industrial levels. Australian Climate Minister Chris Bowen, co-president of the summit with Türkiye, said climate change is a lived reality, citing glacial collapse, heat deaths, and an intensifying El Niño. The 35 percent target is voluntary and relatively unambitious, as electricity currently accounts for 23 percent of power, forecast to rise to 30 percent by 2035 under existing policies. The summit marks the first time UN talks have acknowledged the 1.5-degree goal from the 2015 Paris Agreement will not be met. Australia faces criticism from Pacific nations over coal expansion, while Türkiye relies on coal and gas for 55 percent of its electricity.