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In this article, we focus on the seventh goal that is around Affordable and Clean Energy.
What is the SDG goal regarding affordable and clean energy?
The affordable and clean energy goal includes increasing the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro power, and improving energy efficiency to reduce consumption and costs. It also means expanding access to modern energy services, such as electricity and clean cooking fuels, to people in rural and remote areas who currently lack access to these services.
How can the affordable and clean energy goal be achieved?
Achieving this goal is crucial for sustainable development, as access to affordable and clean energy is essential for economic growth, improved living standards, and sustainable industrial development. It is also critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as the energy sector is one of the largest contributors to global emissions.
Some ways to achieve this goal are through:
It's important to note that this goal is interrelated with other SDGs, such as
Present Situation and The Way Forward
Global think tanks and climate-focused agencies have lauded India’s effort for facilitating affordable and clean energy. This is evidenced through initiatives like supportive policy-making and investments in electric vehicles, green hydrogen, biofuels, lowering emissions, and boosting renewable energy sources (like wind, solar, and water).
Naturally, while the sponsorship of the Central and State Governments is vital for this cause, it cannot be solely their responsibility. Taking cognisance of this, companies like Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL) have stepped up their efforts in providing access to affordable and clean energy across the nation. This is visible in the over 2 crore LPG connections that have been provided to underprivileged families under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) scheme. From a clean energy perspective, initiatives include setting up of bio-refineries that produce 2G ethanol and reduction of thousands of tonnes of CO2. In line with the net-zero goal of the nation, Bharat Petroleum has embarked on a path to diversify its energy portfolio by building a robust renewable energy business by the year 2040. Our ambition is to build 1 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2025 and 10 gigawatts by 2040, through organic and inorganic routes, at an investment layout of around ₹25,000 crore.
In Summation
The SDG 7 not only improves the quality of life by giving all citizens access to affordable and clean energy, it also reduces the nation’s dependence on energy imports. Furthermore, it reduces net carbon emissions and bolsters the local economy while generating employment.
Dr Pravin Kuhikar (PR & Brand)