Theme Report on Innovation, Technology and Data: Towards the Achievement of SDG 7 and Net-Zero Emissions

Organisation:
UN (Secretariat of the High-level Dialogue on Energy 2021)
THEME REPORT ON INNOVATION, TECHNOLOGY AND DATA

Innovation is a dynamic series of processes: it results from complex, interconnected systems influenced by multiple actors and institutions at different levels, including governments, the private sector, academia, civil society and end users. Innovation is not just about technology, but also about policy and planning, and the finance, business and social domains.

This report aims to align international action on energy innovation, technology development and deployment, and data collection and use with the achievement of SDG 7 by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. It provides an overview of the present status of energy innovation, proposes actionable recommendations with priority results and action areas, and assesses the catalytic impacts that such actions can have.

Five key recommendations are presented in the report:

  • Align energy innovation governance and international cooperation with meeting the targets for 2030 and 2050
  • Expand the supply of energy innovation that addresses key gaps
  • Increase the demand for clean and sustainable energy technologies and innovation
  • Leverage digitalization for innovation, while addressing the digital divide 
  • Improve the collection, management, and application of data and data systems
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