The conference in Antalya is expected to focus on implementing existing climate commitments and accelerating the global energy transition. Its agenda places particular emphasis on clean energy, electrification, green industrialisation, climate adaptation and the mobilisation of finance for developing economies.
The challenge is increasingly one of delivery rather than announcements. Governments have committed to expand renewable power, improve energy efficiency, and reduce emissions, but progress depends on investment in generation capacity, electricity grids, storage systems, and supporting infrastructure.
The scale of the financing requirement is significant. Developing economies need access to affordable capital to build reliable electricity systems and expand renewable energy capacity. However, project developers often face high borrowing costs, currency risks, regulatory uncertainty and difficulties securing long-term financing.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has identified private-capital mobilisation, green industrialisation, energy transition and resilience as priorities for its participation at COP31. The bank is also expected to highlight country platforms and investment frameworks designed to connect public policy with private-sector funding.
Türkiye's own energy ambitions illustrate the investment challenge. The government has promoted a greater role for electrification and clean energy, while the conference presidency has outlined initiatives intended to support grid investment, improve project readiness and strengthen international cooperation. One proposed ambition is to increase electricity's share of global energy use to 35% by 2035, with renewable power playing a central role.
However, the transition involves more than installing additional solar panels and wind turbines. Electricity networks must be modernised to accommodate variable renewable generation, while storage and system flexibility are needed to maintain reliable supply. Industrial sectors also require financing and technology to reduce emissions without undermining competitiveness or energy security.
Climate adaptation will be another important test. Developing countries exposed to floods, droughts and extreme heat require investment in water systems, transport infrastructure, agriculture and resilient urban development. The UN refugee agency's warning that nearly 90 million displaced people live in countries highly exposed to climate hazards has added urgency to the debate over funding access.
COP31 will therefore be judged by the extent to which negotiations produce credible financing arrangements, measurable implementation plans and stronger cooperation between governments and investors. The central test is whether commitments can move from conference declarations into projects with identifiable funding, delivery timelines and measurable outcomes.
