Did Trump Just Withdraw the US from the Gurugram-Based International Solar Alliance?
Synopsis
In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has ordered the US to withdraw from the International Solar Alliance, a major initiative aimed at promoting solar energy globally. This decision raises significant questions about US commitment to climate change efforts and international cooperation on energy solutions.
Key Takeaways
Trump's withdrawal highlights a shift in US foreign policy regarding climate initiatives.
The ISA aims to mobilize $1 trillion for solar energy by 2030.
The move raises questions about the future of international climate cooperation.
Over 124 countries are signatories to the ISA.
US contributions were aimed at aiding solar deployment in developing countries.
New York, Jan 8 (NationPress) President Donald Trump has mandated the exit of the US from the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which is headquartered in Gurugram and advocates for solar energy to address climate change issues.
The ISA was one of the 66 international organizations from which he ordered the US withdrawal on Wednesday, claiming they operated “against US national interests,” as stated by the White House.
Trump, who has previously dismissed climate change as a “hoax,” has taken significant action against various entities—both UN and non-UN—that focus on climate and environmental issues, with the ISA being one of the casualties.
According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a key reason for this withdrawal was the “climate orthodoxy” perceived to be undermining “our nation’s sovereignty, freedoms, and overall prosperity.”
The ISA was established in 2015 through a partnership between India and France, currently boasting 124 signatories, with approximately 100 full members.
Its main objective is to mobilize $1 trillion in investments for solar energy and to promote related technologies by 2030, under the leadership of Director-General Ashish Khanna.
From 2022 to 2025, the US was set to contribute $2.1 million to the ISA, as per a US government database, aimed at supporting the US-India Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership, with initiatives focused on enhancing solar energy deployment in developing nations.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which facilitated the Paris Climate Agreement, was among the 31 UN-affiliated organizations that Trump targeted.
Additional organizations included various UN bodies related to water, oceans, and energy, as well as the UN Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries.
The 35 non-UN organizations also included nine entities focusing on climate change and environmental matters.
Notably, the International Panel on Climate Change, which was led by India’s Rajendra Pachauri when it was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007, was also affected.
The US had pledged to join the ISA in 2016 when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with President Barack Obama at the White House.
Point of View
It's crucial to understand the significant implications of this withdrawal. The US's exit from the International Solar Alliance not only impacts its international relations but also raises concerns regarding its commitment to combating climate change. While the administration cites national interests, the long-term effects on global cooperation and investment in renewable energy could be profound.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Solar Alliance?
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an alliance of over 120 countries, initiated by India and France, aimed at promoting solar energy and mobilizing investments for solar technologies.
Why did Trump order the US withdrawal from ISA?
Trump cited that the ISA and other international organizations operate against US national interests and undermine sovereignty and freedoms.
What are the implications of this withdrawal?
The withdrawal could hinder global efforts in combating climate change and reduce collaboration in renewable energy investments.
When was the International Solar Alliance founded?
The ISA was founded in 2015 during a joint initiative by India and France.
How much was the US contributing to the ISA?
The US was set to contribute $2.1 million to the ISA from 2022 to 2025 to support solar energy initiatives.
