The series is set in the year 2307 AD of the Gregorian calendar. During this time, fossil fuels became exhausted and the distribution of fuels became imbalanced. Humanity must rely on three orbital elevators with solar power generation systems (large-scale solar power systems) that are in the hands of the three "major powers" on the planet: the Union of Solar Energy and Free Nations; comprised of the Organization of American States and Japan), the Human Reform League; comprised of China, Russia and India) and Europe's Advanced European Union (based on the European Union and also in control of Africa). However, only the major powers and their allies reaped the benefits. Constant warfare around the globe for fuels and energy lead to the formation of a private military organization, called Celestial Being, dedicated to eradicating war with the use of four humanoid machines called Gundams.