Global Energy Progress 2024: Tracking Advancements And Challenges In Achieving SDG 7 – Report

The 2024 Energy Progress Report, developed by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), International Energy Agency (IEA), United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD), World Bank, and World Health Organization (WHO), highlights the progress made towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7). SDG 7 aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. This comprehensive report tracks advancements in electricity access, clean cooking solutions, renewable energy, and energy efficiency, providing insights into the international public financial flows that support clean energy development in developing countries.

The report indicates significant progress in global electricity access. As of 2021, 91% of the global population had access to electricity, up from 83% in 2010. However, this still leaves around 733 million people without access, predominantly in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Efforts to bridge this gap have been challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has slowed down infrastructure projects and diverted resources to immediate health and economic needs. Despite these challenges, some countries have made notable advancements. For instance, India has achieved nearly universal electricity access, driven by government-led initiatives and significant investment in rural electrification.

In terms of clean cooking solutions, progress has been slower. Approximately 2.4 billion people still rely on traditional cooking methods using biomass, coal, or kerosene, which pose health risks and contribute to environmental degradation. The adoption of clean cooking technologies, such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), electricity, and biogas, has been limited due to factors like affordability, cultural preferences, and supply chain issues. To accelerate progress, the report emphasizes the need for integrated policies that address both supply and demand, including subsidies, public awareness campaigns, and support for local entrepreneurs.

Renewable energy has seen remarkable growth, driven by declining costs and supportive policies. The global share of renewable energy in total final energy consumption reached 19.3% in 2021, up from 16.3% in 2010. Solar and wind power have been the main contributors to this increase, with substantial capacity additions in both developed and developing countries. China remains the largest investor in renewable energy, followed by the United States and the European Union. However, the report highlights the need for more investment in renewable energy in low-income countries, where the potential for impact is significant but financial and technical barriers remain high.

Energy efficiency improvements have also been pivotal in reducing energy consumption and mitigating climate change. The report notes that global primary energy intensity, which measures the energy efficiency of an economy, improved by 1.9% per year between 2010 and 2021. This is slightly below the target of 2.6% per year needed to meet SDG 7. Efforts to enhance energy efficiency have included the implementation of energy performance standards for appliances, buildings, and vehicles, as well as financial incentives and public awareness programs. Countries like Germany and Japan have set benchmarks in energy efficiency, demonstrating the benefits of sustained policy and investment commitments.

International public financial flows to developing countries in support of clean energy have been critical in driving progress towards SDG 7. In 2021, these flows reached USD 23 billion, a 10% increase from the previous year. Multilateral development banks and bilateral donors have played a significant role in financing clean energy projects, including renewable energy installations, energy efficiency programs, and technical assistance. However, the report calls for a scaling up of financial commitments to meet the growing energy needs of developing countries and to support the transition to sustainable energy systems.

The outlook for achieving SDG 7 is mixed. While substantial progress has been made in some areas, significant challenges remain. The report underscores the need for increased international cooperation, enhanced policy frameworks, and greater financial investments to accelerate progress. It also highlights the importance of leveraging technological innovations, building local capacities, and fostering inclusive approaches that ensure no one is left behind in the global energy transition.

In conclusion, the 2024 Energy Progress Report provides a comprehensive overview of the strides made toward achieving SDG 7, as well as the hurdles that still need to be overcome. The findings underscore the critical role of sustainable energy in driving economic development, improving health outcomes, and combating climate change. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the energy transition, the insights and recommendations from this report will be instrumental in guiding future actions and ensuring a more sustainable and equitable energy future for all.