How can countries strengthen energy security and keep energy affordable while continuing the transition towards more sustainable energy systems?
This challenge will be at the centre of UNECE Sustainable Energy Week 2026 (SEW2026), taking place from 28 September to 1 October at the Palais des Nations in Geneva under the theme “Strengthening Energy Security, Affordability and Sustainability in an Uncertain World.”
Energy systems are under growing pressure. Demand is rising at a time when geopolitical uncertainty is putting energy security back at the centre of policy discussions. Countries also need to continue reducing emissions while ensuring that energy remains affordable.
SEW2026 will bring together the 35th session of the Committee on Sustainable Energy and the annual sessions of the UNECE Groups of Experts on Energy Efficiency, on Cleaner Electricity Systems, and on Renewable Energy.
Technical discussions during the Week will address several interconnected priorities:
Assessing the full value and cost of electricity options. The cost of a single technology says little about what it costs, or contributes, once connected to a grid. UNECE’s Protocol on the Full System Value and Cost approach for resilient and carbon-neutral electricity systems looks at the system as a whole: the grids, storage and back-up capacity needed to keep supply reliable as the mix changes, and the value each technology adds in flexibility and resilience.
Aligning datacentre growth with grid resilience. This wider system perspective is becoming increasingly important as new sources of electricity demand emerge. Global electricity consumption from datacentres is projected to increase from 485 TWh in 2025 to 950 TWh by 2030. UNECE work on Aligning Data Centres and Large Load Growth with Grid Resilience examines how this growth can be planned without placing unnecessary strain on electricity systems. It also considers how large electricity users can provide flexibility and support more efficient use of existing infrastructure.
Financing the digital transformation of energy systems. Digital technologies are becoming essential to the operation of modern, resilient, affordable and sustainable energy systems. However, financing frameworks often remain better suited to conventional physical infrastructure than to software, cybersecurity, data platforms and other digital solutions. The UNECE document Financing digital transformation in the energy sector examines how regulation, transition finance, and investment frameworks can better support smart grids, advanced metering, artificial intelligence, digital twins and data-driven operations. It also considers how stronger data governance, cybersecurity and cooperation among governments, regulators, financial institutions, utilities, and investors can help mobilize investment and turn digitalization into a core element of energy system transformation.
Improving the energy performance of buildings. Buildings account for 32 per cent of global energy consumption and 34 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions. The revised UNECE Framework Guidelines for Energy Efficiency Standards in Buildings (2026) consider how building energy performance can be improved throughout the life cycle. They also address the changing role of buildings as they increasingly generate, store, and manage energy.
Integrating renewable energy and advancing biofuel standards. The Group of Experts on Renewable Energy will consider how renewable energy can be better integrated into energy systems. Discussions will also examine possible pathways towards international harmonization of biofuel quality and sustainability standards, as differences among national and regional approaches can affect both the development of biofuels and their international trade.
Member States, experts, academics and industry representatives will discuss near- and longer-term system-wide solutions to strengthen energy security, affordability, and sustainability. In particular, for energy security, experts will explore the role of natural gas and low-carbon gases, such as biomethane. The affordability discussion will look at how full system costs and value can inform energy decisions. On sustainability, speakers will share practical actions that support the transition, including how the Life Cycle Accountability Framework can help clarify responsibilities throughout the life cycle of critical energy transition minerals.
SEW 2026 will provide a forum for member States and energy experts to discuss these issues and consider how UNECE work can support countries as their energy systems evolve.
