High mountain societies and limited local resources - livelihoods and energy utilization in the Eastern Pamirs, Tajikistan

In the isolated high mountain region of Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs), only 15% of inhabitants in Alichur are currently energy poor, with 25% at risk and 60% energy secure. However, declining access to dwarf shrubs—a primary energy resource—could push over 70% into energy poverty by reducing secure households to less than 30%. This study challenges prior assumptions about energy scarcity in such regions by developing a locally adapted energy poverty index that integrates social and environmental factors, providing a nuanced assessment of Alichur's energy dynamics. The research employs an interdisciplinary approach, evaluating the local energy mix and resource supply while highlighting future vulnerabilities.

Hohberg, G., Kreczi, F., & Zandler, H. (2015). High mountain societies and limited local resources - livelihoods and energy utilization in the Eastern Pamirs, Tajikistan. Erdkunde, 69(3), 233–246. https://doi.org/10.3112/erdkunde.2015.03.03