Building upon the essential foundations of water and sanitation, Sustainable Development Goal 7, Affordable and Clean Energy, aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Recognizing that energy is fundamental to economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability, SDG 7 addresses the urgent need to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems while ensuring that everyone has access to the energy they need for a decent standard of living.  

The scope of SDG 7 is comprehensive, addressing various aspects of energy production, distribution, and consumption. Its targets include ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services; increasing substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix; doubling the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency; enhancing international cooperation to facilitate access to clean energy research and technology, including renewable energy, energy efficiency and advanced and cleaner fossil-fuel technology, and promote investment in energy infrastructure and clean energy technology; and expanding infrastructure and upgrading technology for supplying modern and sustainable energy services for all in developing countries, in particular least developed countries, small island developing States, and land-locked developing countries, in accordance with their respective programmes of support.  

Access to energy is crucial for powering homes, schools, hospitals, businesses, and industries. It underpins economic development, supports education and healthcare delivery, and improves overall quality of life. However, billions of people, particularly in developing countries, still lack access to electricity and clean cooking fuels, relying instead on polluting and inefficient sources that have detrimental impacts on their health and the environment.

The current global energy system is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro power, is essential for mitigating climate change and achieving a more sustainable future. Improving energy efficiency across all sectors – from buildings and transportation to industry – is also crucial for reducing energy demand and minimizing environmental impacts.

Achieving SDG 7 requires a fundamental transformation of the global energy system. This involves significant investments in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure, the development and deployment of energy-efficient solutions, and the implementation of policies that promote the transition to clean energy. International cooperation is essential for sharing knowledge, technology, and financial resources to support developing countries in their clean energy transitions.

Technological innovation is at the heart of achieving SDG 7. Advancements in renewable energy technologies, energy storage solutions, smart grids, and energy-efficient appliances are making clean energy increasingly affordable and accessible. Policy frameworks that incentivize renewable energy development, promote energy efficiency standards, and support research and development are also crucial.

In Hyderabad, as a rapidly growing urban and industrial center, ensuring access to affordable and clean energy is vital for its sustainable development. Initiatives focused on promoting solar energy adoption, improving energy efficiency in buildings and industries, investing in smart grid technologies, and exploring sustainable transportation options are key to achieving SDG 7 in the local context. Addressing energy poverty and ensuring access to clean cooking solutions for all residents are also important considerations.

Achieving universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy by 2030 is a transformative goal that will drive progress across all other SDGs. It requires a global commitment to innovation, investment, and policy action. By prioritizing SDG 7, we can power a future that is both prosperous and environmentally sustainable, ensuring a better quality of life for all. Today, on April 18th, 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to transitioning towards a clean energy future in Hyderabad and around the world, lighting the way towards a more sustainable tomorrow.