Ensure all people have access to safe, clean, and low-cost energy.
Goal 7 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is about “ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.” Energy is the foundation of modern life—it powers homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses. Without it, communities face barriers to growth, health, and opportunity. At the same time, shifting to clean and renewable energy is essential for tackling climate change and protecting our environment.
By 2030, Goal 7 aims to transform how the world produces and uses energy through five key targets
Guarantee that everyone has access to electricity and clean cooking solutions, regardless of where they live.
Increase the share of renewable sources like solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal in the global energy mix.
Double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency across industries, transport, and buildings to cut waste and save resources.
Support developing countries by sharing clean energy technology, building skills, and providing financial assistance.
Develop modern, reliable energy infrastructure—including smart grids and storage systems—to ensure sustainable energy services for all.
Clean energy reduces the health risks caused by smoke and indoor air pollution from traditional fuels, especially for women and children.
Access to reliable energy drives industrialisation, creates jobs, and supports businesses and livelihoods.
Shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy helps cut greenhouse gas emissions and combat global warming.
Affordable energy reduces inequality by empowering poor and rural communities with opportunities for education, healthcare, and communication.
Despite progress, millions of people still live without reliable energy. About 770 million people lack electricity, and around 2.6 billion rely on harmful cooking fuels. Many regions, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, struggle with poor infrastructure, limited investment, and outdated policies that slow clean energy growth. High upfront costs of renewable projects, combined with gaps in financing and technology, also remain barriers. Achieving Goal 7 requires not just innovation, but also stronger policies, more funding, and cooperation across nations.
There has been steady progress in expanding electricity access and boosting renewable energy. Today, nearly 90% of the world’s population has electricity, and renewable energy capacity continues to grow as costs fall. However, millions are still left behind, especially in rural areas, where access remains a challenge.
To meet the 2030 targets, urgent global action is required—greater investment, innovation, and international cooperation will be essential to ensure that energy is both affordable and clean for all.
Goal 7 is not just about energy, it’s about building a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable world. Access to affordable and clean energy transforms lives, drives economies, and protects our planet for future generations.
At Sustainable Development Goals, we are committed to promoting renewable energy, efficiency, and equal access. Together, we can ensure that no one is left in the dark.
