Space for socioeconomic development - Highlights for energy

Energy plays an essential role in sustainable development for both its indispensability in daily life and its economic empowering potential. Recognizing this, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development includes the dedicated Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 which ensures access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. With over 200 million people lacking access to electricity, the Asia- Pacific region needs a shift in the ways that we source, consume and distribute our energy resources in order to achieve SDG 7. The Asia-Pacific Plan of Action on Space Applications for Sustainable Development (2018–2030) (Plan of Action) proposes actions concentrated on the effective use of space-derived data and geographic information systems for identification and mapping of the renewable energy potential, such as hydropower and geothermal, solar and wind energy. Most countries in the region have established targets to improve energy efficiency and increase the share of renewable energy. Additionally, policies and programmes have demonstrated significant progress in improving access to electricity; in 2017, the electrification rate for the total population in the Asia-Pacific region reached 94.8 per cent, up from 87.2 per cent in 2010.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Affordable and Clean Energy

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Sustainable Cities and Communities