This book explores the complex interplay of socio-economic, political, and environmental factors that shape energy transitions in countries like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Maldives. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, the book offers a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities inherent in South Asia's quest for sustainable energy. From the expansion of renewable energy sources to the modernization of traditional energy systems, each chapter provides insights into the region's diverse energy pathways. Case studies and empirical research shed light on the policy frameworks, technological innovations, and societal dynamics driving the energy transition agenda. This book serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners seeking to understand and navigate the complexities of energy sustainability in this critical region. By offering both theoretical frameworks and practical insights, this book aims to catalyze informed dialogue and action toward a more sustainable energy future for South Asia and beyond.

Is a comprehensive study of energy transitions across eight South Asian countries Integrates socio-economic, political, and environmental perspectives for a holistic view Combines case studies and empirical research to inform and shape sustainable energy policies

Autorentext

Dr. Zou Xiaolong is an Associate Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor at the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) at Jilin University, China. He is also the Head of the Department of Global Governance & International Organization at SIPA. With over a decade of teaching and research experience, Dr. Zou has become an active voice in the field of global climate governance and international environmental policy. He holds a Ph.D. in Asia Pacific Studies from Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Japan, and has worked extensively on global energy and climate governance, focusing on climate diplomacy, sustainable development, and the political dynamics of the Global South. He has published widely in prestigious academic journals indexed by SSCI, A&HCI, and SCI, including Transport Policy, Journal of Contemporary Asia, South East Asia Research, and Energy. His research has secured funding for over ten provincial and ministerial-level projects, and he has contributed to shaping climate policy through his work as an expert reviewer for the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and as a Board Member of the China United Nations Association.

Dr Anmol Mukhia is an Assistant Professor at the Department of International Relations, Faculty of International Studies, South Asian University, New Delhi. Additionally, he is also a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Politics and Public Administration at the University of Hong Kong. He is the recipient of the GP Deshpande Award (2023) from the Institute of Chinese Studies, New Delhi, and a Global South Fellow (2025) offered by the University of Hong Kong. His research interests include Climate Diplomacy, Cross-border Studies, South Asia, and China, among others. He is the author of Chasing a Blazing Fire in the Himalayas, published by White Falcon. His research is widely published in high-ranking journals.

Dr.-Ing. Ranahansa Dasanayake is the Head of the International Material Flow Management (IMAT) Master’s Programme at Trier University of Applied Sciences, Germany. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Kassel and specializes in sustainable alternative water supplies. An experienced academic and international project manager, his expertise lies in material flow management, circular economy strategies, and sustainable resource optimization. Dr. Dasanayake has managed and contributed to numerous international research projects across over 25 countries, focusing on zero-emission systems and resilient urban development. His work bridges academia and practical application, making him a distinguished contributor to the fields of sustainability and environmental technology.

Inhalt

Part 1. Framing the Regional Transition Concepts, Vulnerabilities, and Cross-Cutting Challenges.- Chapter 1. International Actors and Energy Transition in South Asia: Balancing Development and Diplomacy.- Chapter 2. Energy Adaptation and Climate Vulnerabilities in South Asia: A Tale of Three Nations .- Chapter 3. Energy Justice in Crisis: Exploring Humanitarian Energy Interventions in Rohingya Refugee Camps .- Chapter 4. South Asia's Sustainable Mobility Transition .- Part 2. National Pathways and Bilateral Dynamics India, Pakistan, and Key Partnerships.- Chapter 5. Coal, Climate, And Policy: India's Journey Toward a Sustainable Energy Future.- Chapter 6. The Dibang Multipurpose Project and The Question of Hydropower Projects' Sustainability .- Chapter 7. India's Sustainable Energy Transition and Climate Governance: Progress, Challenges, and Implications.- Chapter 8. Power Struggles: Understanding Political Economy Forces in Pakistan's Energy Governance .- Chapter 9. Sustainable Energy and The Role Of CPEC: Green Promise Or Carbon Lock In?.- Chapter 10. Navigating Sustainable Energy Transition In Pakistan (20152025): Policies, Challenges, And Pathways .- Chapter 11. Harmonizing Pakistan's Environmental Policy with China's Green Energy Initiative: A Pathway to Sustainable Energy Transition in South Asia .- Chapter 12. Navigating Pakistan's Path to Clean Energy: A Critical Evaluation of SDG 7 Progress Toward 2030 .- Part 3. Sub-Regional Perspectives and Unique National Experiences.- Chapter 13. Carbon Neutral Exemplar of Asia: Lessons from The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan .- Chapter 14. Energy Democracy: A Case Study of Bhutan .- Chapter 15. Energy Cooperation Between India and Nepal: Prospect and Implications .- Chapter 16. Navigating Climate Commitments and Power Politics: An IR Perspective On Nepal's Hydropower Development .- Chapter 17. Mapping Sustainable Energy Transition Between India And Bangladesh: A Comparative Assessment .- Chapter 18. Towards A Sustainable Energy Future: Multi-Level Governance, Capacity Gaps, And Policy Innovations in Bangladesh .- Chapter 19. Sustainable Energy Transition in The Sri Lankan Industrial Sector: A Critical Review.