SDG7 aims for affordable, reliable energy for all by 2030. While 92% of people have basic electricity access, 750 million do not. Strong policies and coordinated action across governments, regulators, utilities, and innovators are essential to drive investment, reduce inequalities, and close the energy access gap. Market design, regulatory frameworks, and targeted subsidies balance affordability with financial stability.

Global energy investment in 2025 is likely to have passed USD3.3 trillion, with USD 2.2 trillion going to clean energy technologies. Solar will attract the largest share, USD 450 billion. However, grid investment is lagging, threatening energy security. Many utilities lack the capital to invest in aging infrastructure. To address this, they are exploring alternative financing models. If not addressed, utilities and communities will struggle to upgrade the vital systems they depend on.

As the world shifts to cleaner energy, utilities must strengthen resilience. In the Middle East, fast-growing demand makes this essential. Efficiency, flexibility, and smart grids help reduce peak loads, ensure reliability, and balance supply and demand. With smart meters and digital services, empowered customers further enhance stability and support a future-ready energy system.

Renewable energy systems depend on innovation. Digital transformation enhances grid efficiency, increases the integration of renewables, and manages demand effectively. Progress in hard technologies, such as solar, wind, and energy storage, is crucial. Additionally, sensors, AI, and analytics are revolutionising energy production. Unlocking the full potential of digitally enabled “new infrastructure” requires coordinated action across the value chain, supported by strategic investment, clear policy direction, and strong cross-sector collaboration.

Compute power is critical as AI grows. By 2030, data centres need $7 trillion, raising electricity use from 1% to 3%. Utilities must upgrade grids and manage heat. While AI can cut energy intensity, rising water demand requires coordinated policy, finance, technology, and market actions to ensure sustainable AI development.

Policy certainty underpins the energy transition. Stable, transparent, and predictable policies enable investment, efficient utility planning, and lower costs for customers. Governments that balance ambition and consistency, providing clarity in regulation and long-term planning, can build trust, attract sustained investment, and accelerate global progress toward net zero.