Through deepening solar, wind, and biomass contributions to power mixes in the countries of the Mekong Basin and rethinking how hydropower and cross-border power trade are positioned to meet regional power demand needs, it is possible to achieve a low impact, low carbon, and low cost energy transition AND conserve the Mighty Mekong's natural resource base. This presentation demonstrated decision making tools and policy pathways for system-scale energy planning and tradeoff analyses at the basin-wide scope that should be used to deliver this transition. Mr.

Renewable energy mini-grids are becoming a widely accepted solution for cost-effective and reliable energy access. Hydro mini-grids in Nepal and Pakistan reveal that the long-term sustainability of projects is dependent on whether they are run as enterprises that generate revenue which is re-invested into the project. Our experiences show that women-centric approaches to mini-grid ownership, management, and productive end-use result in longer-lived micro-hydropower systems.

Food production, energy generation, and water supply systems are inextricably linked. Achieving clean energy goals requires careful consideration of the various interactions among these systems. With population growth and rising temperatures, demand for water is increasing. As economies develop and income increases, per-capita demand for food, energy, and water grows putting stress on natural systems. Rising demand among competing water uses, coupled with uncertainty from climate change, can lead to critical water shortages.

The Lao PDR recognizes the vital role that the power sector plays in powering economic development and to becoming a regional power exporter. A resilient power sector could withstand, respond to, and recover rapidly from the impacts of natural (both climate and non-climate), technological, or human-caused hazards. The Lao PDR is addressing risks and planning for a resilient power sector by identifying hazards, impacts, and vulnerabilities to the system, and devising solutions to mitigate them.

With a decision tree as guide, this presentation cites EFlows case studies and assessments, including a proposed inlet array design, hydropower plants, and river zoning.

Water and energy are interconnected. Choices made in either of the sectors can positively or negatively impact one another. This is the context of the ADB publication, Water-Energy Nexus in the People’s Republic of China and Emerging Issues, launched in December 2017.

The publication highlights the importance of an integrated approach to decision making. It contains recommendations towards sustainable water use in the energy sector as well. This presentation shares the other key messages of the said ADB publication.