LocationsUNDP Explores Progress and Pathways for Mongolia’s Just Energy Transition
January 28, 2025
Ulaanbaatar, 28 January 2025 – UNDP Mongolia hosted a roundtable discussion under the theme “Just Energy Transition in Mongolia: Progress and Way Forward” to share key lessons from its renewable energy pilot projects and explore strategies to scale up clean energy solutions. The event, held in observance of the International Day of Clean Energy (26 January), also highlighted the importance of expanding decentralized renewable energy systems by improving accessibility and cost efficiency, as well as addressing the critical need for policy support to foster investment in scaling up the solutions.
In 2024, 69 households in Ulaanbaatar and Erdenet adopted solar PV-powered heating systems, providing a sustainable alternative to coal. This initiative improved air quality, supported vulnerable families, and served as a model for creating cleaner, healthier communities. The project was implemented in collaboration with the Government of France, Ulaanbaatar City, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, URECA LLC, and Ger Hub NGO.
Globally, renewable energy is gaining unprecedented momentum. In 2023, renewable sources accounted for 30% of global electricity generation, with global energy investment expected to exceed USD 3 trillion in 2024 with USD 2 trillion going to clean energy technologies and infrastructure. During COP28, world leaders committed to tripling installed renewable energy capacity by 2030, signaling the urgency of an accelerated energy transition.
Mongolia is also making efforts to align with this global momentum, aiming to increase renewable energy capacity to 30% of its total installed capacity by 2030. As of 2023, renewable energy accounts for 18.3% of Mongolia’s installed capacity and 9.1% of its electricity production.
UNDP is providing strategic support to Mongolia in advancing just energy transition. Through its 2024 National Human Development Paper, 'A Just Energy Transition for Human Development in Mongolia,' UNDP highlights the challenges posed by Mongolia's coal-dependent economy and advocates for a people-centered transition that meets the needs of current and future generations. UNDP is also leading a UN Joint Programme, funded by the Joint SDG Fund and implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, to accelerate a green and inclusive energy shift.
“Addressing air pollution requires innovative and scalable solutions. Renewable energy systems pave the way for cleaner air, energy security, and improved quality of life,” said Mr. Byambajav Z., Deputy Governor of Chingeltei District. “Together with UNDP, we aim to expand renewable energy solutions to more households in our district.”
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Mongolia Ms. Lin Cao stated, “A just energy transition presents Mongolia with a transformative opportunity to reduce pollution, drive green economic growth, strengthen communities, and promote social equity. By fostering a supportive environment for renewable energy, it can also attract significant investment and accelerate sustainable development.”
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About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.
About Joint SDG Fund
The Joint SDG Fund offers United Nations Country Teams a unique opportunity to launch collaborative initiatives, promote integrated approaches, and channel strategic investments to accelerate the SDGs and, ultimately, lead to achievement of the 2030 Agenda. The Joint SDG Fund supports countries to accelerate their progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to deliver on the commitment of the 2030 Agenda to leave no one behind.
For further inquiries:
Erdenesukh Otgonbayar | Communications Analyst | UNDP in Mongolia | erdenesukh.otgonbayar@undp.org
