Renewable Energy Potential in Hindu Kush Himalaya Region
The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region holds vast renewable energy resources but currently uses only a small fraction. A recent report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) marks the untapped potential and challenges facing renewable energy development in eight HKH countries. These include Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, China, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. The report was launched during the Asia-Pacific Clean Energy Week in Bangkok in 2025.
Current Renewable Energy Status
Renewable energy accounts for just 6.1% of the total primary energy supply in the HKH region. Hydropower is the largest source but remains underdeveloped. Of 882 Gigawatts (GW) hydropower potential, only 49% is harnessed. Most of this potential (635 GW) comes from trans-boundary rivers. Non-hydro renewables like solar and wind have a combined potential of 3 Terawatts (TW). However, the countries’ renewable energy targets total only 1.7 TW, less than half the regional potential.
Energy Mix
- Bhutan and Nepal generate all their electricity from renewable sources, mainly hydropower.
- Other HKH countries rely heavily on fossil fuels – 98% in Bangladesh, 77% in India, 76% in Pakistan, 67% in China, and 51% in Myanmar.
- Biofuels and waste form part of energy in rural areas, especially in Nepal and Myanmar. This reliance on traditional biomass affects air quality and health.
Climate Change Impact on Energy Sector
Climate change poses serious risks to energy infrastructure. Hydropower suffers from water variability, altered streamflow, and extreme weather events. Glacial lake outburst floods threaten nearly two-thirds of existing and planned hydropower projects. These risks show the need for disaster risk reduction to be integrated into renewable energy planning.
Innovations Beyond Large Dams
Large dams offer benefits in flood control and water management but cannot solve all water-related risks. The report urges exploring dams equivalents such as advanced irrigation, water-efficient farming, urban water storage, and increased solar and wind power. These measures reduce water wastage and environmental impacts while supporting energy and water security.
Barriers to Renewable Energy Development
Challenges include high capital costs, limited public finance, and difficulty attracting private investment. There are concerns about social and environmental impacts on communities and ecosystems. Lack of technical expertise, land availability, and research investment also hinder progress. New policies and regulations are needed to address pollution and promote sustainable energy growth.
Regional Cooperation and Future Opportunities
The report stresses the importance of regional cooperation for maximising benefits like renewable energy trade, disaster risk reduction, and green job creation. Platforms such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Energy Centre and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) can facilitate technology exchange and infrastructure development. International financial institutions are urged to support these efforts to ensure sustainable development and climate goals.
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