Targets of SDG 7

Sustainable Development Goal 7 is built on ambitious yet vital targets aimed at transforming the global energy landscape. These targets focus on ensuring universal access to clean and sustainable energy while improving efficiency and encouraging renewable solutions.

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Universal Access to Modern Energy Services (Target 7.1)

By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services

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Increase Renewable Energy Share (Target 7.2):

By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix

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Improve Energy Efficiency (Target 7.3)

By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency

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Enhance International Cooperation and Technology Access (Target 7.A)

By 2030, enhance 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

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Expand Energy Infrastructure for Developing Nations (Target 7.B)

By 2030, expand infrastructure and upgrade 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

SDG 7.A - Enhance International Cooperation and Technology Access

Global Flow of Renewable Energy Investments

The evolution of financial flows for renewable energy investments highlights how developing nations have prioritized transitioning to sustainable energy systems. Since the early 2007s, countries like India, Indonesia, and Pakistan have consistently attracted substantial financial support, reflecting their growing populations and urgent energy demands. A remarkable surge in funding is observed around 2014, with a peak in 2016 driven by large-scale hydropower projects. China stands out, receiving steady funding for bioenergy projects, likely driven by its vast agricultural waste resources and focus on waste-to-energy technologies. Traditional technologies like wind and hydropower have remained dominant, forming the backbone of renewable energy transitions in these regions. However, diversification into emerging technologies like marine energy began around 2022, signaling innovation in the sector. Indonesia’s consistent funding for geothermal energy underscores how regional geographies influence energy strategies, leveraging abundant natural resources. These patterns reflect a global focus on scalable, reliable, and geographically advantageous renewable technologies while gradually embracing innovation.

Evolving Investment Trends in Renewable Energy

The financial flows of the past two decades reveal a reliance on well-established technologies, but the future of renewable energy investments is poised for diversification. Over the past decade, the share of energy investments in hydropower has declined, while funding for solar energy and multiple/other technologies has risen. Large-scale hydropower projects, which once dominated financial flows, are now less frequent, with donor preferences leaning toward smaller, flexible grants and loans targeting energy efficiency, electrification programs, and renewable infrastructure. Emerging technologies like marine and hydrogen energy, alongside advanced storage solutions, are expected to gain attraction as countries aim to meet ambitious climate goals. These evolving patterns underscore the importance of innovation and inclusivity, signaling a future where energy investments address both sustainability and equity on a global scale.
The trends in renewable energy investments over the past decade reflect a significant shift toward diversification and adaptability. With declining investments in hydropower and rising commitments to solar energy and multiple technologies, donors are demonstrating a clear preference for scalable, flexible solutions. These patterns highlight not only the changing priorities of financial flows but also their alignment with evolving global energy demands and climate goals. As the renewable energy landscape continues to adapt, financial strategies will play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between investment and tangible energy infrastructure development.

SDG 7.B - Expand Energy Infrastructure for Developing Nations

Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, is a cornerstone for global progress. Energy drives economic growth, supports education and healthcare, and fosters innovation, but it must be harnessed responsibly to combat climate change and reduce inequalities. Achieving SDG 7 requires collective action—governments, businesses, and individuals must prioritize renewable energy, improve energy efficiency, and expand infrastructure in underserved areas. By aligning our efforts with this goal, we can build a future that is not only energy-secure but also sustainable and equitable for generations to come. As we approach 2030, these insights underscore the critical importance of targeted interventions, particularly in regions facing the greatest challenges. While the road to sustain Success will require not just sustained investment, but also improved efficiency in translating these efforts into tangible clean energy progress.