Excellencies, colleagues,

Energy is not just a sector—it is the backbone of our economies, our societies, and our security. Decisions taken on energy determine whether people can work, learn, and live with dignity.

According to the latest World Energy Outlook, energy investments are set to reach a record  3,3 trillion US dollars in 2025. Clean energy and infrastructure now attracts double the funding of fossil fuels, and renewable electricity is expanding quickly all over the world.

Yet the reality is that oil, gas, and coal still supply nearly 80 percent of total energy consumed globally.

Today, the world consumes almost four times more energy than it did the year I was born.

This growth reminds us of a simple truth: energy matters to everyone, everywhere—and access to it needs to be a top priority.

At this side event, we focus on advancing energy access and clean cooking.

Progress is real, despite the pandemic, the war of aggression in Ukraine, and global supply disruptions. Since 2010, around 1 billion people have gained access to electricity and around 1,5 billion have gained access to clean cooking.

But over 700 million people still lack access to electricity, billions have unreliable supply and more than 2 billion people cook with polluting fuels that damage health and livelihoods.

Universal energy access is achievable—but only if we act with purpose.

First, electricity is the foundation of jobs and economic growth. Basic access improves welfare, but affordable and reliable power drives productivity and industrialization.

History shows this clearly. When electricity reached Norway in the late 19th century, it transformed households, enabled industry, and helped build a modern economy.

Energy investment created opportunities and it can do so again, everywhere.

Second, clean cooking is not a side issue. It is a core responsibility and must be built into energy planning and infrastructure from the very beginning.

Third, clean cooking can and must ride the electrification wave, but it requires dedicated political leadership, targeted financing, and delivery systems designed for real-world conditions.

Fourth, funding remains a key challenge. Strong demand exists. What is missing is sufficient investment to scale infrastructure and supply chains.

Fifth, we must be pragmatic. Universal access will require all viable technologies and fuels, including LPG, which has driven progress in Asia.

Colleagues,

Energy access is about development, competitiveness, and stability. The choices we make now will define opportunities for generations to come.

Let us act accordingly.

Thank you.