The Asia-Pacific region is on course to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030, marking a major milestone in the global drive for sustainable development, according to a new report by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). 

However, the Regional Trends Report on Energy for Sustainable Development 2025 warns that progress on other targets is falling behind. The share of renewable energy in the mix is rising too slowly, clean cooking solutions remain out of reach for millions and energy efficiency improvements are lagging.  

The report calls for urgent action in scaling up the deployment of clean technologies, improving energy efficiency gains and dramatically increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix. Its findings underscore that the benefits of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 goes well beyond the energy sector. It is about creating economic opportunities, driving inclusive growth, improving health outcomes and strengthening resilience against climate and geopolitical shocks.

The report will be launched at the Fourth Session of the Committee on Energy, to be held from 3 to 5 September 2025 in Bangkok. Convened by ESCAP, the Committee will bring together policymakers, industry leaders and experts to shape strategies for transforming energy systems, advancing cross-border connectivity and securing sustainable supply chains of critical materials and technologies for the clean energy transition. This year’s Committee will also involve young people and youth-led organizations, highlighting their active participation in regional and global energy transition processes.