The role of renewable energy in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals: A systematic review and conceptual framework

This systematic review examines the critical role of renewable energy in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite the growing interest in the nexus between renewable energy and sustainable development, comprehensive analyses remain limited. To address this gap, the present study analyzes peer-reviewed articles to assess the scope, depth, and pathways through which renewable energy contributes to the SDGs. The 17 goals are categorized into three relevant tiers: direct, indirect, and broader development linkages; based on their level of relevance to renewable energy. The findings highlight the central role of renewable energy in ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy (SDG 7), while also facilitating progress in climate action (SDG 13), economic development (SDG 8), public health (SDG 3), urban sustainability (SDG 11), and social equity (SDG 10). Renewable energy offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and improving access to clean energy, especially in underserved and off-grid areas. However, its widespread deployment is hindered by high capital costs, technological challenges, regulatory fragmentation, and social acceptance barriers. The review emphasizes the need for integrative policy frameworks, inclusive governance, technological innovation, and multi-stakeholder partnerships to effectively integrate renewable energy with broader sustainable development strategies.