Tourism-induced rural energy consumption in the Annapurna region of Nepal

Analysis of energy dependency on fossil fuels in rural destinations is an important aspect of the discourse on sustainable tourism and the global climate. This paper analyzes energy consumption patterns in tourist lodges in Nepal's Annapurna region. Data on energy sources and energy-saving technologies were collected from 489 tourist lodges located along three major trekking routes. Results indicate that primary energy sources include wood and kerosene, but the use of renewable energy and locally developed energy-saving technologies is increasing. Energy consumption patterns are influenced by altitude, accommodation capacity, energy cost, diversity of energy sources, access to energy-saving technologies, and institutional rules and regulations. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.