ICC Backs COP31 Global Electrification Pledge
The International Chamber of Commerce endorsed the "35 by 35" pledge ahead of the Electrification Ministerial.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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The International Chamber of Commerce issued a statement supporting the COP31 "35 by 35" Global Electrification Pledge ahead of the Electrification Ministerial. The ICC urged COP31 ministers to set an integrated policy implementation agenda for electrification.
Why it matters
The ICC represents a large business constituency, and its endorsement signals that private-sector support is being mobilized behind the pledge's electrification targets. Energy system transformation is described as central to keeping the 1.5-degree goal within reach.
The ICC's global business community includes over 45 million companies across more than 170 countries. The statement does not specify implementation mechanisms or funding commitments for the pledge's 35 by 35 electrification goal.
The players
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
The ICC is a global business organization that advocates for trade, investment and open markets, with a membership spanning more than 170 countries.
John W.H. Denton AO
John W.H. Denton AO is the Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce, which he leads in advocating for business interests in international policy forums.
The details
ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO issued the statement backing the pledge, which the ICC said requires energy systems capable of supporting rapid scale-up of renewable energy. The organization said delivering the pledge will require an effective implementation framework.
Timeline
November 9, 2026: ICC statement issued ahead of the Electrification Ministerial at COP31.
Roadmap
The ICC's endorsement places the COP31 electrification pledge within the broader push to scale renewable energy and electrify energy systems as a route to the 1.5-degree goal. The statement frames energy system transformation as a core solution rather than a supplementary measure.
Electrification commitments at this scale could shape the pace at which electric vehicles and charging infrastructure expand in the markets involved. The statement does not identify specific near-term changes for consumers or drivers.
The takeaway
Business endorsement of national and international electrification targets signals that implementation, not ambition alone, will determine outcomes. Readers tracking the transition should watch whether ministers adopt the integrated policy agenda the ICC has called for.
Further reading
For broader context on electrification policy, explore our Electric Vehicles coverage.
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Should the government prioritize clean electricity even if power bills rise?
