SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

There is an expectation that the private sector can and should play a significant role in promoting and supporting the delivery of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This SDG calls for universal access to sustainable energy services, a significant increase in the share of renewables in the global energy mix, and a doubling of improvements in energy efficiency.

Mining is an energy-intensive sector, accounting for around 2% of global energy consumption. It also plays a critical role in supplying energy resources—such as uranium for low-carbon power and minerals like lithium essential for renewable technologies. Companies can reduce their carbon footprint by adopting energy-efficient processes and integrating renewable energy into operations. In remote regions, shared-use energy infrastructure can also extend access to clean energy for local communities.

What companies need to know to manage impacts or make a positive contribution
The types and sources of energy used at an operational or facility level and how this influences the energy and carbon intensity of products. An assessment of opportunities for energy saving or reductions in carbon intensity, barriers to uptake and how these might be overcome. How the transition to a low-carbon future may affect long-term business opportunities.
Minimising negative impacts	Maximising positive contributions
Develop a full understanding of energy sources and their influence on energy or carbon intensity of products. Pursue energy efficiency opportunities and audit energy use to improve performance. Collaborate with partners to develop effective mitigation technologies such as carbon capture and storage.	Explore opportunities to share energy infrastructure with other users, particularly where communities have limited access. Collaborate with the responsible authorities to make energy infrastructure for mining available for use by communities post-closure. Pursue opportunities to substitute carbon-intensive sources with renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and geothermal.