Climate change is a global issue that demands policies addressing both mitigation and resilient infrastructure. While carbon emissions from power generation and transportation are major contributors worldwide, the transition from fossil fuel dependency to clean energy also presents complex social challenges. The energy transition must be accompanied by a thorough assessment of their impacts, particularly for low-income, vulnerable, and marginalized populations, to ensure that they do not exacerbate energy poverty or create other negative social impacts. A well-managed and inclusive energy transition presents significant opportunities for improving access to and affordability of energy services, as well as increasing employment and livelihoods.

An inclusive energy transition refers to the process of transitioning from fossil fuel-based energy systems to low and zero-carbon, sustainable and renewable energy sources, in a manner that prioritizes social equity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability, to ensure that all segments of society, particularly vulnerable and marginalized communities, are actively involved in and benefit from the transition.

This subregional workshop is part of an ADB technical assistance project aimed at promoting inclusive strategies for a low-carbon energy transition in South Asia. The workshop intended to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among government agencies, ADB project implementers, and other key energy stakeholders in Bhutan and Nepal. The workshop built on the main themes, topics, and insights from the South Asia regional conference in Galle, Sri Lanka, and the India national conference in Chennai in 2024. Specifically, it examined in greater depth the energy transitions in the respective countries, as well as the similarities and differences, focusing on inclusive clean energy solutions.