Applications of smart grid technology in Nepal: status, challenges, and opportunities

Energy transformation and sustainability have become a challenge, especially for developing countries, which face broad energy-related issues such as a wide demand-supply gap, extensive fossil fuel dependency, and low accessibility to clean energy. Globally, smart grid technology has been identified to address these affairs and enable a smooth transition from traditional to smart energy systems, ensuring energy security. This paper studies the critical role in strengthening the power system, integrating renewable sources, electrifying the transport sector, and harnessing bioenergy. Evaluating the current energy scenario in Nepal, this article presents the smart grid as a solution to existing and future energy issues and the associated challenges during its implementation, urging concerned authorities to launch initiatives to promote it. Moreover, this study also lays the foundation for future research into the smart grid's potential to reform the power sector in other developing nations with abundant renewable energy sources and similar energy-related barriers.

Automated summary

Energy transformation and sustainability pose a significant challenge for developing countries, and smart grid technology is seen as a crucial solution. This article explores the pivotal role of smart grids in strengthening power systems, integrating renewable energy sources, promoting electrification in transportation, and harnessing bioenergy. It also highlights the potential of smart grids in Nepal and other developing nations with similar energy-related barriers.