A Systematic Review of Sustainable Engineering Management for Advancing Energy Access under SDG 7

Abstract

Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) emphasizes the necessity of ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy. As the global energy landscape undergoes transformative changes, engineering management plays a pivotal role in optimizing infrastructure, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring regulatory compliance to facilitate sustainable energy transitions. This paper presents a systematic review of sustainable engineering management strategies and their contributions to achieving SDG 7. It explores the intersection of engineering management, energy policy, and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and predictive analytics, in improving energy access and efficiency.A conceptual framework is developed, integrating sustainability transitions theory, energy justice, and the energy-water-food nexus, to analyze the interdependence influencing sustainable energy development. The paper examines case studies from Germany’s Energiewende, Japan’s post-Fukushima renewable policies, and community-led energy projects, illustrating best practices and challenges in global energy transitions. Furthermore, it highlights financial, technological, and regulatory barriers that hinder sustainable energy implementation and proposes future-oriented solutions using digital transformation, decentralized energy networks, and AI-driven cybersecurity. Findings suggest that interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders is crucial in accelerating energy access. By leveraging smart grids, AI-powered decision-making, and blockchain-enabled peer-to-peer energy trading, engineering management can drive sustainable and equitable energy solutions. The paper concludes with policy recommendations and a roadmap for enhancing resilience, security, and inclusivity in sustainable energy systems.