Specifically, SDG 7 sets out to “ensure access to affordable, reliable and modern energy for all”. Despite significant progress in recent years with an increasing level of global electrification, more sustained efforts are needed to reach some of the world’s poorest populations and to improve energy sustainability. According to Riccardo Puliti, the Senior Director for Energy and Extractives at the World Bank, “The progress we have seen over the last few years is encouraging- the number of people without access to electricity has dropped to 840 million – but we still have a great deal of work to do as much of this population lives in the poorest countries and most remote locations. The successes in several countries in Africa and Asia show the way. This report demonstrates the importance of sound planning, integrating grid and off-grid approaches, a focus on affordability and reliability, and addressing gender inequalities.” Significant advances on energy access have been made in recent years. The global population without electricity has dropped to 840 million from 1.2 billion in 2010 . Countries including India, Bangladesh, Kenya and Myanmar have made the most progress since 2010, but without a sustained effort, 650 million people will be left without electricity in 2030 – 90% of which will be in sub-Saharan Africa. The Energy Progress Report shows that progress has been made to increase overall renewable energy deployment. Nevertheless, ramping up the progress globally requires stronger political action, long-term energy planning, greater levels of financing along with better policy and fiscal incentives. Forbes

Other contents