The UN’s global goals, implemented in 2015, has provided a new framework for sustainability. Re-vamped from the millennium development goals (MDGs), the new sustainable development goals (SDGs) are indeed ambitious but give countries a direction which can help generations to come.
To give a quick background, the UN aims to tackle poverty, hunger, and climate change through 17 different, yet overlapping, global objectives. With sustainable energy as an integral part of the SDGs, goal seven is focused on affordable and clean energy, which could have a significant impact on the electricity sector.
Key emerging economies have adopted these goals as a part of their sustainable development framework, and it includes adequate infrastructure development, expanding energy access to larger population groups and also providing clean energy.
Country Case Study
Selecting an upper-middle income economy from Southeast Asia, Malaysia has rapidly developed these past 50 years. They are one of the few oil producers in their region, yet they have been attempting to diversify their energy resources.
Energy Futures Lab, part of Imperial College London, hosted a former minister from Malaysia to evaluate the impact of the SDGs on their energy production. A few highlights included:
- Expanding infrastructure development,
- Reduce CO2 emissions by 40%,
- Cleaner electricity generation.
The shift to cleaner electricity is to diversify energy sources and produce cleaner coal. Developments are underway for Malaysia’s fifth coal power plant with the aim of producing clean coal and boasts 40% less CO2 emissions. This is a huge success for the Southeast Asian nation that has paved the way for other countries across the world to emulate.
Few factors that will drive this UN program on a successful track are given below:
The road is long but after the cracks and the potholes, we’ll all drive on the most beautiful clean energy highway !
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About the Author: Adi G is an industry veteran with several years of experience in dealing with Energy, Utility and Resources industry clients and likes to present his views on topics that impact not just the industry but our communities and society in general. He can be reached @ady@luxconsultingservices.com
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