The Republic of Mauritius Voluntary National Review (VNR) 2024 addresses SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, aiming to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Mauritius’ commitment to a green economy and climate goals provides insight into its energy-related efforts.
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy in the Mauritius Voluntary National Review 2024
Key Achievements
Energy Transition Commitments:
Mauritius targets 60% of its energy needs from green sources by 2030, alongside a complete phase-out of coal in electricity generation, as part of its revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
Investments in renewable energy align with the nation’s shift toward a sustainable, high-income economy.
Access to Energy:
Universal electricity access is a cornerstone of Mauritius’ welfare state, ensuring affordability and reliability for households and businesses.
Economic growth and recovery efforts support energy infrastructure maintenance and expansion.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40% by 2030 reflect a focus on cleaner energy production.
Academic and private sector collaborations, such as eco-campus policies with renewable energy integration, promote sustainable energy practices.
Challenges
Funding Needs: The high cost of transitioning to renewables (estimated at USD 6.5 billion for NDCs, with USD 4.2 billion reliant on international support) poses a financial challenge.
Climate Impacts: Extreme weather events, like cyclones, threaten energy infrastructure resilience and reliability.
Opportunities and Future Outlook
Renewable Expansion: Scaling up solar, wind, and other green energy sources can meet sustainability targets and reduce fossil fuel dependency.
International Partnerships: Securing global funding and expertise can accelerate the clean energy transition.
Innovation: Leveraging science and technology offers potential for energy efficiency and grid modernization.
Conclusion
Mauritius progresses toward SDG 7 with ambitious renewable energy goals, widespread electricity access, and a focus on sustainability. Financial and climate-related challenges remain, but opportunities in partnerships and innovation position the country to achieve affordable and clean energy for all.
