The 2024 Energy Progress Report, a document co-authored by several multilateral organisations, including the WHO and the World Bank, shows that the world has progressed significantly in the direction of electricity access. The report incorporates insights into the international public financial flows that support clean energy development in developing countries. 

In 2021, 91 percent of the global population had access to electricity, up from 83 percent in 2010. However, around 733 million people still lack access, primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Efforts to close this gap have been hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has delayed infrastructure projects and redirected resources. Taking these challenges in its stride, India has made significant progress towards the goal of universal electricity access through government initiatives and investment in rural electrification. 

The transition to clean cooking solutions has been slow, with about 2.4 billion people still using traditional cooking methods. Limited adoption of clean cooking technologies is due to factors such as affordability, cultural preferences, and supply chain issues. The report emphasises the need for integrated policies addressing both supply and demand, including subsidies, public awareness campaigns, and support for local entrepreneurs. 

Renewable energy use has grown due to lower costs and supportive policies. More investment is needed in low-income countries. In 2021, global renewable energy consumption rose to 19.3 percent from 16.3 percent in 2010. Solar and wind power were the primary contributors to this increase. China, the United States, and the European Union are the top investors in renewable energy. 

Over the years, energy efficiency improvements have significantly contributed to reducing energy consumption and addressing climate change. According to a recent report, the global primary energy intensity, which measures an economy's energy efficiency, showed an annual improvement of 1.9 percent between 2010 and 2021. While this falls slightly short of the 2.6 percent yearly target required to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7, initiatives to boost energy efficiency have involved the introduction of energy performance standards for appliances, buildings, and vehicles, as well as the implementation of financial incentives and public awareness programs. Notably, countries such as Germany and Japan have set remarkable examples in energy efficiency through sustained policy measures and investment commitments. 

Financial flows to support green energy initiatives in developing countries are critical to fuelling their progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 7. In 2021, these flows reached $23 billion, a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Multilateral development banks and bilateral donors have played a significant role in financing clean energy projects, including renewable energy installations, energy efficiency programmes, and technical assistance. However, the report calls for scaling up financial commitments to meet the growing energy needs of developing countries and to support the transition to sustainable energy systems. 

The outlook for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 is mixed. While substantial progress has been made in some areas, significant challenges remain. The report emphasises the need for increased international cooperation, enhanced policy frameworks, and greater financial investments to accelerate progress. It also highlights the importance of leveraging technological innovations, building local capacities, and fostering inclusive approaches that ensure no one is left behind in the global energy transition.