Future of Clean Cooking Energy Access in Emerging Economies by 2030

Abstract

This study assesses the future of clean energy and technology access for cooking in emerging economic blocs—BRICS, MINT, ASEAN, and MENA—through 2030. Cooking contributes 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with over half of household emissions coming from cooking. Therefore, clean cooking energy is critical for sustainability and human health. The study aims to evaluate the likelihood of achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal of universal clean cooking energy access by 2030 and the 2050 net-zero emissions target. Machine learning techniques, such as support vector regression, gradient boosting, and linear regression, alongside an ensemble approach, provide forecasts for these regions. The findings show a varied outlook. Within ASEAN, two countries are expected to reach 100% clean energy access for cooking by 2030, while two are likely to experience a decline. The MENA region shows stronger progress, with eight countries expected to meet the 2030 target. Among BRICS countries, only India is projected to reach full accessibility, while Russia faces a decline. The MINT countries face challenges, with none expected to meet the target, and Nigeria is projected to experience a decrease in clean energy access. The study concludes that the current trajectory makes achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the 2050 net-zero emissions target unlikely for these regions. Policymakers must reassess their strategies and learn from successful countries to improve outcomes. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.