The Center for Global Health Equity (CGHE) is proud to announce that members Pamela Jagger and Uttam Sharma have been awarded a Sustainability Catalyst Grant by the University of Michigan's Graham Sustainability Institute. This grant will support their innovative project aimed at understanding and facilitating Nepal's transition to renewable energy, specifically through hydroelectric power.
Nepal is currently undergoing a significant transformation in its energy landscape. Moving away from traditional biomass and fossil fuels, the nation is ambitiously pursuing hydroelectricity leveraging a wealth of hydropower resources. This transition, however, is not without its challenges and implications for society, the economy, and the environment.
Recognizing the complexity of these issues, the research team plans to conduct a wide range of information gathering activities to inform decision makers in Nepal on the current state of energy access across the country and provide recommendations on next steps towards the country’s goal of a more sustainable energy grid. Key in-country collaborators include the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and the Ministry of Forest and Environment (MOFE).
The project's objectives are multi-faceted:
- Conduct a thorough literature review on Nepal's energy access.
- Create and disseminate a comprehensive report, modeled on similar reports for countries in Southern Africa, to inform future research and policy.
- Host webinars and interviews with diverse experts to understand the challenges, opportunities, and knowledge gaps in Nepal's energy transition.
- Present their findings at international conferences to foster collaboration and advance research.
The research team consists of an interdisciplinary team of researchers, with individuals from across the U-M landscape:
- Pamela Jagger, PI (Member, CGHE; School for Environment and Sustainability)
- Rajiv Ghimire, Co-I (School for Environment and Sustainability)
- Uttam Sharma, Co-I (CGHE)
- Noah Guberman (Literature, Science, and the Arts)
This project is not only vital for Nepal but also holds significant implications for other countries undergoing similar energy transitions. The insights gained can guide global efforts in addressing issues related to energy access, availability, and affordability, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.
