SDG Target 7.1

Chosen local context: Puerto Rico

 The data surrounding Puerto Rico's energy crisis is startling. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, over 94% of the islands energy comes from fossil fuels. On the other hand renewable energy accounts for only 6% of total electricity generation. This dependency on non-renewable sources contributes to high electricity costs, making energy both expensive and unreliable for residents. What surprised me most is the islands potential for renewable energy particularly solar remains largely untapped despite the ideal conditions. The push for this will definitely help with target 7.1 as well as 7.2 (increasing the global share of renewable energy).

 I chose Puerto Rico as my local context for this class as I have relatives who live there. One of which being a politician promoting efforts to make the island cleaner.

Business owners may think that the upfront costs of clean and renewable energy will bring a financial burden.

Residents of High Poverty Areas:

This demographic may perceive that this change is more expensive due to an upfront cost. It is only human nature to perceive a change as unknown and scary.

Organizations like the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) advocate for cleaner and more sustainable energy.

Politicians:

Politicians who support renewable energy are key for achieving this SDG goal (Although my target demographic is on the right side of this chart).

Students with an interest in activism are more likely to take a stance on renewable energy then students who aren't.

School Teachers and Principals:

Educators will often support global initiatives. What they choose for the school curriculum can also persuade students beliefs.

As students are mostly focused on their studies, they often remain neutral. With a large portion of their day spent at school, they can be persuaded by the schools initiatives.

Musicians:

Musicians are generally not involved in energy debates. They remain neutral unless they use their platforms to spread awareness.

Social Media Influencers:

Influencers like to stay neutral so they don't get ''cancelled''. This can change if they see a financial gain in promoting a cause.

These business owners and leaders benefit directly from the current energy structure. These people will most likely be resistant of change as it will negatively effect their economic and financial future.

Their Employees:

This demographic will also be resistant of change as they could lose their jobs. A potential solution would be to provide them employment in the clean energy sector.