28 August 2017: Analyzing data from various sources and visualizing the results in an accessible manner can be a powerful tool to enhance action for sustainable development. One example of such an approach are the ‘Heat Maps’ developed by Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL).

The initiative released updated maps showing which countries are making the most progress, and which countries face the biggest challenges, regarding sustainable energy. The four Heat Maps focus on key issues relating to Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all), including access to clean cooking, electricity access, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.

Each map identifies 20 high impact countries that face the biggest challenges regarding specific indicators for progress on SDG 7. The documents thus show where interventions on specific sustainable energy-related issues can have the largest impact. Every Heat Map is accompanied by an information package providing context and evidence to inform decision makers where and how the biggest gains can be realized. SEforALL and partners are also publishing a series of blog posts that provide insights on action on the issues highlighted in the maps. The first blog posts address the urban-rural divide in electricity access in Kenya, and opportunities to increase energy access in six African countries. [UNFCCC Press Release][SEforALL Press Release][Se4All Heat Maps][SEforALL Blog Post: Urban-Rural Divide and Government Policies Among Key Challenges in Closing Global Electricity Access Gap][SEforALL Guest Blog Post: The Heat is on in Africa]