Integration Of Renewable Energy In Smart Infrastructure Development In Nepal: A Policy And Feasibility Review

Abstract

Nepal's journey towards renewable energy and intelligent infrastructure is the need of the hour in order to achieve long-term energy security, environmental sustainability, and sustainable economic development. This study employs a framework of policy and feasibility review, incorporating national plan analysis, subsidy policy analysis, and institutional arrangement analysis under policy coherence, technical and financial viability, and stakeholder dynamics. Findings indicate high political will and large accomplishment in electrification, particularly rural electrification by hydropower and solar schemes, aimed at international goals such as SDG 7 (clean energy) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities). Nevertheless, application of renewable energy for smart urban infrastructure is retarded by aging power grids, lacking investment frameworks, and fragmented government. While Nepal has developed a robust policy framework, actual implementation would require combined efforts from government agencies, changing finance models, and the use of advanced technologies such as smart grids and storage. It recommends the formulation of public-private partnerships, the development of a harmonized renewable-smart city model, institutional capacity development, and the leverage of local innovation to upgrade renewable-smart infrastructure towards a low-carbon and resilient future.