Gov. Larry Rhoden joins multi-state coalition to promote energy security – KOTA Territory News

Report on South Dakota’s Participation in the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security and Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Introduction: Advancing SDG 7 through Strategic Alliance

The state of South Dakota has formally joined the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security, a multi-jurisdictional partnership focused on sustainable energy policy. This initiative directly supports the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by aiming to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. Governor Larry Rhoden emphasized an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy, which aligns with the goal of increasing energy access while protecting consumer choice and fostering economic stability, a key component of SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Coalition Objectives and Contribution to Global Goals

The Coalition, co-founded by former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, addresses critical challenges at the intersection of energy, economy, and environment. Its mission is strategically aligned with several SDGs:

• Ensure Energy Affordability and Reliability: Directly contributes to SDG 7 by tackling rising energy costs and inflation, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
• Reduce Regulatory Barriers: Promotes an environment conducive to investment and innovation in energy infrastructure, supporting SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
• Coordinate Resource Management: Aims to manage energy resources and environmental impacts responsibly, reflecting the principles of SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
• Protect Consumer Choice: Empowers individuals and businesses to select energy sources that meet their needs, fostering sustainable communities as outlined in SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

South Dakota’s Leadership in Renewable Energy and SDG Targets

South Dakota’s participation in the Coalition is reinforced by its established leadership in the renewable energy sector. Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration indicates a significant achievement in relation to Target 7.2 of SDG 7, which calls for a substantial increase in the share of renewable energy. The state’s energy profile demonstrates a strong commitment to this target:

• 81% of the state’s total electricity generation is derived from renewable sources.
• Primary sources of this clean energy are wind and hydropower, contributing to a lower-carbon energy system and advancing efforts related to SDG 13 (Climate Action).

A Multi-Stakeholder Partnership for Sustainable Development (SDG 17)

The formation and expansion of the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security exemplifies SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It establishes a robust platform for sub-national and international cooperation to achieve shared sustainable development objectives. The coalition fosters knowledge-sharing and coordinated policy-making among its members.

Participating States and Provinces:

1. Alabama
2. Arkansas
3. Georgia
4. Louisiana
5. Mississippi
6. New Hampshire
7. Oklahoma
8. South Dakota
9. Tennessee
10. Virginia
11. Wyoming
12. Alberta (Canada)
13. Saskatchewan (Canada)
14. Ontario (Canada)

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

   • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

     This is the most prominent SDG in the article. The text explicitly mentions the coalition’s focus on keeping energy “affordable and reliable.” It also highlights South Dakota’s leadership in clean energy, stating that “81% of the state’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources, primarily wind and hydropower.”

   • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

     The article connects energy policy directly to economic outcomes. It states that the coalition aims to “deliver common-sense energy policies that strengthen our economy,” linking affordable and reliable energy to economic stability and growth.

   • SDG 13: Climate Action

     While not the primary focus, SDG 13 is relevant due to the significant mention of renewable energy. The fact that 81% of South Dakota’s electricity is from renewables is a substantial climate action measure, as it reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The coalition’s mission to manage “environmental impacts” also aligns with this goal.

   • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

     The entire article is about the formation and expansion of a partnership. The “Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security” is described as a “multi-state alliance” that includes both U.S. governors and Canadian premiers, perfectly illustrating the collaborative approach promoted by SDG 17.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

   • Target 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services.

     The coalition’s mission to keep energy “affordable and reliable” and ensure South Dakotans have power that “works best for their homes and businesses” directly addresses this target.

   • Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.

     The article provides a direct statistic related to this target, noting that “81% of the state’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources.” This demonstrates significant progress and leadership in increasing the share of renewable energy.

   • Target 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances.

     The goal to “strengthen our economy” through stable and affordable energy policies supports the conditions necessary for sustained economic growth.

   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning.

     South Dakota’s energy profile, with a high percentage of renewables, demonstrates an integration of climate-friendly energy sources into its state-level policy and infrastructure.

   • Target 17.16: Enhance the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships.

     The “Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security” is a clear example of a multi-stakeholder (in this case, sub-national governments) partnership created to address a shared challenge.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

   • Quantitative Indicator: The article provides a specific, measurable indicator for Target 7.2. The statement that “81% of the state’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources” is a direct measurement of the share of renewable energy in the electricity mix.
   • Qualitative Indicators:
     • The article implies the use of energy cost as an indicator by mentioning the need to address “rising energy costs and inflation” and keep energy “affordable.”
     • The existence and membership of the “Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security” itself serves as an indicator for Target 17.16, demonstrating the formation of partnerships to achieve common goals. The list of participating states and provinces (Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Wyoming, etc.) quantifies the scope of this partnership.

Summary of Findings

Source: kotatv.com