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Government-led energy initiatives: a systematic literature review on strategies for sustainability and transition
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DOI：10.3389/fenrg.2026.1870374.png)
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Abstract
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IntroductionThe accelerated growth of energy demand across multiple economic sectors compels strategic responsiveness from national energy departments to achieve reliable energy provisions. Nevertheless; aligning national energy strategies with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remains a challenge for governments whose economies are heavily dependent on fossil fuel. As a result; governments struggle with uneven implementation of energy sustainability initiatives; with successful cases concentrated in developed countries while countries in the sub-Saharan Africa lag with small scale implementations.ObjectivesThe aim of this qualitative study is to assess government-driven energy sustainability initiatives across diverse regional contexts; with particular attention to successful implementations and the constraints that hinder their rapid deployment.MethodsThe systematic literature review method was employed; guided by the PRISMA framework. A comprehensive Boolean search was conducted across Scopus and Science Direct databases yielding the initial pool of identified articles. Following the full-text review; 40 articles were retained for this study.FindingsThe findings suggest that governments need to explore innovative financing opportunities to support energy sustainability initiatives; modernise the legacy infrastructure to enable seamless integrations with renewable energy sources and emerging technologies; accompanied by strengthened policy frameworks that align with net zero commitments. Ultimately; governments must consider inclusive coal phase out measures to protect communities that are heavily dependent on fossil fuel.ConclusionThe analysis revealed that renewable energy integration; circular economy practices and just transition frameworks are a cornerstone to achieving energy sustainability targets. Pilot scale and community projects must not be overlooked as these gradually expand renewable energy access and extend electricity access. Conversely; the findings outlined persistent barriers: financing constraints; inadequate policy frameworks; technical skill gaps and limited compatibility between current infrastructure and emerging technologies. Importantly; the success of energy sustainability transitions depends not only on technological innovation; but also on strong institutional support; inclusive policy design; stakeholder participation; and continuous investment in human capital and infrastructure.
Keywords:
sustainable development goals
circular economy
renewable energy
green economy
just transition
fossil fuel
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