Swiss International University (SIU) SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Institutional Report 2024
- International Academy

- Dec 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 27
Executive Summary
Swiss International University (SIU) is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7): Affordable and Clean Energy by investing in renewable energy infrastructure, conducting cutting-edge research on energy efficiency, and educating students to become leaders in the global energy transition. This 2024 report highlights SIU’s initiatives to promote access to clean energy, reduce carbon emissions, and foster innovation in sustainable energy technologies.
Introduction & Context
Access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy is essential for economic growth, climate change mitigation, and social well-being. SDG 7 calls for a global shift toward clean and renewable energy sources to address the pressing challenges of energy poverty and climate change.
As a multi-campus university in Switzerland, Dubai, and Central Asia, SIU integrates renewable energy solutions into its operations, academic programs, and research agenda to contribute to a sustainable and low-carbon future.
Strategic Commitments
SIU’s SDG 7 strategy focuses on:
Renewable Energy Adoption: Transitioning campuses toward solar, wind, and other clean energy sources.
Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy consumption through smart technologies and green building practices.
Education & Research: Expanding academic programs and research in renewable energy engineering and policy.
Community Engagement: Supporting local clean energy initiatives and awareness campaigns.
Major Initiatives
1. Solar Campus Initiative
Solar panels installed on SIU campuses now generate 30% of electricity demand, with plans to achieve 60% by 2026.
2. Green Building Standards
All new SIU buildings follow energy-efficient designs with smart lighting, insulation, and HVAC systems to minimize energy use.
3. Renewable Energy Research Projects
Engineering faculty lead studies on bioenergy, hydrogen fuel cells, and energy storage systems, producing practical solutions for industrial applications.
4. Community Clean Energy Programs
Student volunteers collaborate with local municipalities to install solar water heaters in low-income households and schools.
Research & Academic Integration
Key academic contributions include:
Master’s in Renewable Energy Engineering launched in 2023.
Research on Energy Policy and Economics guiding national energy transition strategies.
Smart Grids and Microgrids projects enhancing rural electrification efforts.
Partnerships & Collaborations
Key collaborations include:
An International Renewable Energy Agency: Policy dialogues and student internships.
CleanTech Companies: Pilot projects on energy storage and electric mobility solutions.
Local Governments: Joint initiatives on rural solar electrification.
Impact Assessment
30% energy demand met through solar power in 2024.
20% reduction in campus carbon footprint since 2020.
10 research grants secured for clean energy projects in 2023–2024.
50+ students completed internships in renewable energy companies.
Case Studies & Success Stories
Solar Village Project: SIU engineering students designed solar-powered microgrids providing electricity to 500 homes in remote areas.
Energy Hackathon: Student-led competition produced AI-based energy optimization tools adopted by local businesses.
Challenges & Future Plans
Challenges include high initial costs for renewable energy infrastructure and intermittency issues with solar and wind power. Future initiatives:
Achieving carbon neutrality for all campuses by 2035.
Launching a Center for Sustainable Energy Research and Innovation by 2026.
Expanding online clean energy certification programs for global learners.
Conclusion
By integrating renewable energy solutions into education, research, and campus operations, SIU actively contributes to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Our initiatives foster innovation, sustainability, and environmental responsibility on a global scale.










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