Integrating Energy Systems and Humanitarian Action for the Water–Energy–Environment Nexus: Evidence from India and Kenya

Authors

  • Mojtaba Sedaghat * Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1855-7638
  • Nima Emami Kian Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.22105/jeee.v2i2.53

Abstract

This article introduces and applies an Integrated Index (II) to identify and prioritize the most suitable technologies for impoverished regions in the fields of water and energy, using India and Kenya as comparative case studies. A PRISMA-guided review and expert interviews inform the selection of prevalent technologies like energy (solar PV, biomass gasification, LPG, mini-hydro) and water (boreholes, rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment). The indicators derive weights with the Best–Worst Method (BWM) and compute II scores to reflect social, economic, and environmental objectives. Results highlight efficiency (with 32% of total weights) as the dominant criterion for energy and cost/reliability (with 35%, and 20% of total weights) for water. Under the INI framework, LPG (0.84) and biomass (0.56) rank highest among energy options for near-term service delivery, while borehole extraction (0.83) outperforms other water options, followed by rainwater harvesting (0.58). This article translate these insights into actionable planning guidance for humanitarian–development settings, emphasizing service-based contracts, telemetry-enabled O&M, and circular resource strategies to enhance resilience to real-world challenges. The II provides a transparent, adaptable decision tool to prioritize technologies, reduce fragmentation, and steer SDG-aligned investments in poverty-affected regions.

Keywords:

Energy systems, Humanitarian actions, Water-energy-environment nexus, Sustainable development goals

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2025-06-27

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Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): Journal of Environmental Engineering and Energy

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Articles

How to Cite

Sedaghat, M., & Emami Kian, N. (2025). Integrating Energy Systems and Humanitarian Action for the Water–Energy–Environment Nexus: Evidence from India and Kenya. Journal of Environmental Engineering and Energy, 2(2), 141-156. https://doi.org/10.22105/jeee.v2i2.53

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