Chair,
SDG7 is central to both development and climate action. Our progress on energy access and an accelerating energy transition show strong potential to drive economic growth through green industrialisation and job creation, while at the same time promoting gender equality.
However, efforts must urgently be scaled up to fully unlock these benefits. Clean cooking remains a major challenge, with a significant access gap despite growing global attention. Addressing this requires sustained political commitment, targeted financing, culturally informed approaches, and effective delivery solutions. Norway, together with partners, is helping elevate this issue, including through a major upcoming summit on clean cooking in Africa.
Norway’s own experience demonstrates what is possible: universal energy access, high
supply security, and affordable electricity, with 99% renewable power production — primarily hydropower. At the same time, 43 % of domestic energy consumption still derives from fossil fuels. Increasing electrification in industry and transport to become a low emission society will raise demand for renewable electricity.
To minimize impacts on biodiversity, priority should, where feasible and appropriate, be
given to developing renewable energy in already industrialized areas and on existing buildings.
International cooperation is critical. Norway supports developing countries through bilateral and multilateral efforts, with a strong focus on energy access, including clean cooking in Sub Saharan Africa. Partnerships such as the M300 initiative, along with mobilizing private investment through grants, equity, and guarantees, are key to accelerating progress.
Thank you.