Together we have more power: Status, challenges, and the potential for regional renewable energy cooperation in the Hindu Kush Himalaya

The Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, despite significant economic growth, faces persistent poverty, energy insecurity, and rising demand. Over 47 million people in the eight HKH countries lack access to electricity, while energy sectors in China and India contribute disproportionately to national greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy, particularly hydropower, solar, and wind, offers vast untapped potential—estimated at over 3,000 GW—yet its current share in total primary energy supply remains only 6.1%. The report highlights critical challenges, including climate change impacts on hydropower, extreme weather risks, high investment costs, and geopolitical constraints. Nevertheless, enhanced regional cooperation presents significant opportunities to optimize energy trade, integrate water-energy-agriculture systems, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and strengthen resilience against climate and economic shocks. A holistic and collaborative regional approach, extending beyond bilateral arrangements, is vital to achieving sustainable development, low-carbon pathways, and energy security in the HKH.