Energy Poverty Alleviation in North East India: Strategies for Sustainable and Inclusive Development

Siddartha Ramakanth Keshavadasu, Rajkiran Venkateshgoud Bilolikar

Abstract: Energy poverty remains a pressing challenge in the North Eastern states of India, hampering socioeconomic progress and well-being in the region. This review/ subjective paper aims to address the issue of energy poverty and propose effective strategies for sustainable and inclusive development. This paper addresses energy poverty in North East India, identifying key factors such as poor Discom financial health, high transmission losses, and inadequate access to modern energy services. The study proposes strategies for sustainable development, involving a mix of renewable (solar, micro wind, biomass, small hydro) and non-renewable energy sources, coupled with energy storage techniques like battery and pumped hydro storage. Emphasis is on local mini-grids for enhancing energy access in remote areas, policy interventions, institutional reforms, and community engagement. The study also illuminates the synergies between energy poverty alleviation and climate change mitigation. It estimates the finance requirement for implementation, considering infrastructure development, capacity addition, and maintenance costs. This paper offers practical recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, to inform decision-making, attract investments, and drive inclusive development in the region.

Keywords: energy poverty, renewable energy, energy storage, sustainable development, policy interventions

How to Cite?: Siddartha Ramakanth Keshavadasu, Rajkiran Venkateshgoud Bilolikar, "Energy Poverty Alleviation in North East India: Strategies for Sustainable and Inclusive Development", Volume 12 Issue 7, July 2023, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 428-433, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR23704155027, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR23704155027