In the heart of South Asia, a region grappling with an energy crisis, a glimmer of hope is emerging from the halls of Ajman University in the United Arab Emirates. Hassan Zidan, a researcher at the College of Engineering and Information Technology, has been delving into the potential of cross-border energy trade among SAARC countries, a move that could revolutionize the energy landscape and drive sustainable development.
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a union of eight countries, all facing a severe energy crisis due to rapid population growth and industrialization. Currently, these nations rely heavily on imported fossil fuels, a situation that’s not only environmentally taxing but also economically draining. Zidan’s research, published in the journal Energy Science & Engineering, explores how renewable energy and cross-border electricity trade could be the key to unlocking a more sustainable and prosperous future for the region.
At the core of Zidan’s study is the idea of leveraging renewable energy resources to generate electricity that can be traded across borders. “The potential is enormous,” Zidan asserts. “We’re talking about a region that’s rich in renewable energy resources, yet poor in energy security. By trading electricity, we can bridge this gap and create a more resilient energy system.”
The study identifies near-border cities that could serve as hubs for this cross-border trade, with India emerging as a potential powerhouse. Zidan’s analysis reveals that India could generate a staggering 2485 GWh of energy through wind and solar power, accounting for 85% of the total generation in the SAARC region. This isn’t just about numbers, though. It’s about the tangible impacts on people’s lives and the environment.
The research maps the societal needs of energy suppliers and receivers to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The findings are promising, with the potential to achieve 13 SDGs through social impacts between energy trading countries. This includes everything from improving access to affordable and clean energy to promoting sustainable cities and communities.
But what does this mean for the energy sector? For one, it opens up new commercial opportunities. Cross-border energy trade could lead to the development of new infrastructure, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. It could also drive down energy costs, making power more affordable for consumers.
Moreover, it could pave the way for a more integrated energy market in the region, fostering cooperation and collaboration among SAARC countries. This could lead to a more stable and secure energy supply, reducing the reliance on imported fossil fuels and mitigating the environmental impacts of energy production.
However, Zidan acknowledges that there are challenges to overcome. “We need to address issues like tariffs, regulatory frameworks, and grid interconnectivity,” he says. “But the potential benefits far outweigh these challenges.”
As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, Zidan’s research offers a beacon of hope. It shows that by harnessing renewable energy and fostering regional cooperation, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous future. And for the energy sector, it opens up a world of opportunities, from infrastructure development to market integration.
The study, published in Energy Science & Engineering, is a call to action for policymakers, energy companies, and investors. It’s a roadmap for transforming the energy landscape in South Asia, and a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. As Zidan puts it, “The future of energy in South Asia is not just about generating power. It’s about creating a sustainable, prosperous, and interconnected region.”
