Gender and Social Inclusion in Mini-grid Systems in Nepal: Approach and Challenges

This presentation discusses the existing policy and directives of Asian Development Bank (ADB) on gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) mainstreaming in the energy sector of Nepal. The GESI approach used by ADB as well as the challenges that impede its full realization in Nepal’s mini-grid systems are discussed.

Exploring Factors that Enhance and Restrict Women’s Empowerment through Electrification: Scoping Study Report

This report examines how policy and practice may enhance women’s empowerment though electrification in rural areas in the South. It presents the results of a desk study in which empirical literature on women’s empowerment from electrification and international initiatives and national electricity policies in Kenya, India, and Nepal are studied.

Donated for a Cause: Land Transfers in DRILP

The Decentralized Rural Infrastructure and Livelihood Project (DRILP) used a community-driven approach to bring much needed road and community infrastructure to Nepal's hill and mountain districts. It likewise built capacity for centralized governance.

Three years after the project's approval, however, a resident filed a complaint against Asian Development Bank (ADB), claiming that local leaders and project staff coerced their family to sign the land transfer document. They threatened to file a case against ADB and other development partners if the project continues.

Community Rural Electrification in Nepal

Nepal faces significant challenges in rural electrification, with less than 35% of the rural population electrified. Much has been done to address this such as increasing the grid-connected electrification rate in areas without electricity and empowering Electricity Users Cooperatives (EUCs). This case study presents an example of the process and results of the capacity building support provided to EUCs by an Asian Development Bank-supported project that aimed to increase rural poor women’s access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy sources and technologies.

A Regional Gender Assessment of Energy Policies and Programmes in South Asia

The Asian Development Bank implemented a project that aimed to increase rural poor women’s access to affordable, reliable, and clean renewable energy sources and technologies in its three developing member countries in South Asia: Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. This report presents the findings of the review of national energy policies for the region that combined gender reviews and interactions with stakeholders.

Improving Gender Inclusive Access to Clean and Renewable Energy in Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka

Energy is a critical factor in any poverty reduction strategy. It is also essential for generating production, income, and employment. The Asian Development Bank rolled out a project in three of its developing member countries in South Asia—Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka—to help increase rural poor women’s access to affordable, reliable, and clean renewable energy sources and technologies. This paper presents an overview of the project, including its background, key strategies, results, and lessons.