Energy is a central component of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), explicitly reflected in SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. However, the theme of energy cuts across multiple SDGs, demonstrating the interconnectivity of these global goals.
SDG 7's objective is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Energy, in its various forms, is a vital driver of economic growth and is pivotal to nearly all aspects of development. Without a steady and reliable supply of energy, societies can hardly progress. However, millions of people around the world still lack access to modern and clean energy services. The emphasis on "affordable and clean" energy within this goal shows the need to transition from traditional energy sources, often characterized by high environmental costs, to more sustainable ones like wind, solar, and hydropower.
Energy's role is also significant in achieving other SDGs. For example, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, emphasizes the need for sustainable and resilient infrastructure with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean technologies. It is almost impossible to achieve this without a sustainable energy framework. Similarly, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, calls for making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, and one of its targets (11.6) directly refers to the environmental impact of cities, for which energy is a key factor.
Furthermore, energy is a crucial player in SDG 13: Climate Action. The energy sector represents the largest single source of global greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning to a sustainable energy future, therefore, is critical for tackling climate change. Efforts to reduce emissions and promote clean energy sources are crucial to mitigate climate change and its impacts.
This chapter supports SDG 7, 9, and 11 by exploring innovations in renewable energy sources and their potential to facilitate clean transportation alternatives; highlighting the importance of developing sustainable transportation infrastructure and leveraging technological advancements to achieve net-zero emissions; and emphasizing the role of urban planning and design in creating more environmentally friendly and equitable transportation systems.
Hydrogen Production, Transportation, Storage, and Utilization: Theoretical and Practical Aspects, 2025, Pages 417-501
The chapter supports multiple UN SDGs—particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships)—by emphasizing the transition to sustainable hydrogen solutions, advancing infrastructure, promoting innovation, and highlighting the importance of international collaboration to achieve a low-carbon energy future.
Digital Twins for Smart Metabolic Circular Cities, Innovations in Planning and Climate Resilience, Smart Cities, 2025, Pages 115-152
S. Bhattacharya & G. Nikitas, Energy and Climate Change: Our New Future, 2025, Pages 197-224
This chapter supports SDGs 7, 11, and 13, by providing an overview of wind energy and current challenges and opportunities, with a particular focus on offshore wind energy which is an increasingly important part of the energy transition.
Massimiliano, Rosa-Clot & Tina, Progress in Floating Photovoltaic Systems, 2025, Pages 1-23
This chapter supports SDGs 7, 11, and 13, by providing an overview of floating photovoltaics as a major segment within photovoltaics, reviewing the current situation and future potential of floating PV as a key area of solar energy.
