BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE- The clean energy transition is gaining record-breaking momentum and if global leaders act now, it could deliver affordable electricity, millions of new jobs, and universal energy access.
This was the message from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres during a live screening at the Hilton Garden Inn on July 23, 2025. The event featured his Special Address on Climate Change Action, titled “A Moment of Opportunity.”
According to the United Nations, the year 2024 marked a significant turning point. A record 585 gigawatts of renewable power were added globally, while electric vehicle sales surged past 17 million a dramatic increase from just 500 000 in 2015.
Over 40 countries have managed to grow their economies while reducing emissions, proving that climate action can support economic development.
THE UN EMPHASIZED THAT ACCELERATING THE CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION COULD YIELD SUBSTANTIAL BENEFITS:
.Energy Affordability: Renewables are now the cheapest source of electricity in most regions.
.Access for All: Decentralized solar and wind systems offer the best solution for the 666 million people still living without electricity.
.Job Creation: The sector has already generated over 34.8 million jobs worldwide.
.Energy Security: For the 74% of the global population living in fossil fuel–importing countries, renewables provide long-term stability.
Despite the remarkable progress, challenges persist. Financing gaps are limiting clean energy investment in developing countries, which currently receive less than 20% of global funding. Outdated infrastructure is delaying progress, with more than 3 000 gigawatts of renewable energy projects awaiting grid connections. In addition, unequal supply chains and ongoing fossil fuel subsidies are slowing momentum.
TO ADDRESS THESE BARRIERS, THE UN OUTLINED A SIX-STEP PLAN TO ACCELERATE THE GLOBAL CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION.
.Align policies to support renewables.
.Expand grids and storage infrastructure.
.Meet rising energy demand with clean power.
.Ensure access and fairness in the transition.
.Boost trade and investment in clean energy.
.Mobilize more funding for the Global South.
In his closing remarks, Guterres emphasized that the world stands at a decisive moment. He urged nations to seize the momentum of the clean energy transition and invest boldly in a greener future. “The clean energy transition is no longer a future goal, it is happening now,” he said. “With the right support and global cooperation, it can drive lasting economic growth, reduce energy poverty, and build a more secure and sustainable world for all.”
