As South Asia advances toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, cross-sectoral integration is emerging as a key aspect to accelerate the transformation. Traditional energy planning approach has often been fragmented, with power, transport, agriculture, industry, and urban infrastructure developing in isolation. A more integrated approach to energy supply and demand can drive greater renewable energy adoption, minimize reliance on energy storage, and enhance overall efficiency, resilience, and sustainability.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has key development partner in South Asia’s energy transformation, providing financial support, technical expertise, and policy guidance. ADB’s projects in South Asia are making an effort to foster this integration by supporting initiatives such as sector coupling, clean energy applications in various sector.

Experts from the ADB, government and others who were involved in these efforts, including the design and implementation of the good practice projects, will reflect on these experiences in the South Asia energy sector, drawing some key lessons to inform the further development of the ADB portfolio going forward. Case studies showcasing recent projects with innovative cross sectoral and energy management system will also be presented, highlighting successful approaches that can be scaled to further accelerate the region’s energy transition.