The United Nations commemorates the International Day of Clean Energy today, emphasizing the transformative power of affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy. As part of its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, the UN reaffirms its mission to ensure universal access to clean energy by 2030—a cornerstone of global efforts to eradicate poverty, foster equity, and mitigate climate change.
The Secretary-General’s Message
In his message for the International Day of Clean Energy, the UN Secretary-General highlighted a milestone for 2025: renewables are set to become the world’s largest source of electricity generation for the first time. Despite this progress, he underscored the urgent need for governments to ensure a swift and just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy to stave off the worst impacts of climate change.
“This year offers an unparalleled opportunity for countries to align their climate ambitions with their national energy and development strategies,” he stated, urging nations to deliver robust plans to phase out fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gases, and triple renewable capacity by 2030.
Why Clean Energy Matters
The global energy landscape is at a turning point. Fossil fuel consumption accounts for over 75% of greenhouse gas emissions, making the shift to renewable energy crucial for climate protection. At international summits like COP28, nations pledged to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030. Wealthier countries committed $300 billion annually to aid developing nations in this transition—a figure that must scale to $1.3 trillion yearly by the decade’s end.
Clean energy isn’t just about sustainability; it’s a driver of economic growth, health improvement, and gender equality, delivering far-reaching benefits across sectors.
Driving Prosperity Through Renewables
Renewable energy is a cornerstone of economic opportunity. The Secretary-General emphasized the need for increased financial flows to emerging markets, calling for multilateral development banks to expand their lending capacity and address barriers like high capital costs and debt.
For every dollar invested in renewable energy, three times as many jobs are created compared to fossil fuels. By 2030, clean energy could generate 14 million new jobs globally, offsetting the loss of 5 million jobs in traditional energy sectors. Investments in renewables, projected to reach $4 trillion annually, promise net-zero initiatives delivering $26 trillion in benefits, catalyzing resilient and equitable economies.
Healthier Lives, Cleaner Planet
The shift to clean energy is vital for human health. Dirty cooking fuels cause 3.2 million premature deaths annually, while air pollution from fossil fuels contributes to an additional 6 million deaths yearly. Transitioning to clean cooking solutions could prevent these tragedies, saving lives and protecting ecosystems.
Moreover, nearly 1 billion people depend on healthcare facilities with unreliable electricity. Solar electrification of off-grid clinics is a game-changer, ensuring reliable medical care, especially in remote areas.
Empowering Women and Communities
Access to clean energy is a catalyst for gender equality, freeing women and girls from the time-consuming task of collecting traditional fuels. This enables them to pursue education and economic opportunities. Women are increasingly stepping up as leaders in the energy transition, driving change within their communities.
Clean energy also addresses educational disparities. In Africa, where only 31% of primary schools have power, solar installations are empowering 186 million children to access better learning environments, paving the way for brighter futures.
A Call to Action
The Secretary-General urged the world to commit to a future of clean energy that is rooted in speed, justice, and collaboration. The UN’s “Act Now” campaign calls on individuals to adopt energy-efficient practices, switch to electric transport, and embrace clean cooking solutions.
As the global community marks this day, the message is clear: clean energy is not a luxury but a necessity. Achieving SDG 7 will unlock transformative benefits for people and the planet, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
