Dr. Nikit Abhyankar

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Research

My work lies at the intersection of clean energy technology, policy and markets. I develop data‑driven analyses to help governments, utilities and businesses accelerate the transition to an affordable, reliable and equitable clean energy system. On this page you will find an overview of my key research themes, examples of real‑world impact and links to selected publications.

Renewable Energy Resource Assessment & Grid Integration

Even abundant renewable resources are of little value if they cannot be delivered reliably and economically. I evaluate wind, solar and other resources in different regions and model how they can be integrated into power grids without compromising reliability. This includes:

  • Quantifying resource potential – assessing how much wind and solar can be developed in regions such as the United States, India and emerging Asian economies.
  • Grid integration modelling – analysing how increasing shares of renewable generation impact grid stability and what investments in transmission, storage and demand flexibility are needed.
  • Real‑world impact – my team’s work on declining costs of solar‑plus‑storage helped inform industrial captive power policies, while offshore wind deployment studies have influenced planning in the U.S. and India.

Electricity Markets & Policies

As countries pursue decarbonization, electricity markets and regulatory frameworks must evolve. My research focuses on:

  • Market design for clean grids – examining how wholesale markets, capacity mechanisms and ancillary services can be re‑shaped to support high renewable penetration.
  • Policy pathways – assessing how carbon pricing, renewable portfolio standards and federal/state incentives influence investment and operating decisions.
  • International comparisons – analyzing decarbonization strategies in China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Mexico, and the United States to identify best practices.

Appliance Efficiency & Demand Response

Improving the efficiency of appliances and industrial equipment is one of the most cost‑effective ways to cut emissions. I work on:

  • Technology assessments – evaluating energy‑saving potential of appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators and industrial equipment.
  • Policy/program design – analysing the effectiveness of standards and labelling programs, and designing incentive schemes to accelerate adoption of efficient products.
  • Load‑shape analysis – investigating demand response potential and load flexibility at the appliance level.

Transport Electrification & the Grid

Electrification of transport presents both an opportunity for decarbonisation and a challenge for grid operations. My research explores:

  • Cost of ownership – comparing battery‑electric and diesel trucks or buses to identify tipping points for widespread electrification.
  • Grid impacts – modelling how charging patterns affect peak demand and exploring strategies such as smart charging, vehicle‑to‑grid integration and managed charging tariffs.
  • Policy implications – recommending policies to support equitable access to electric mobility while maintaining grid reliability.

Energy Access & Equitable Transitions

Modern energy services remain out of reach for many communities. I investigate pathways to expand access that are environmentally and financially sustainable, including:

  • Off‑grid and mini‑grid solutions – assessing technology options and business models for rural electrification in Asia and Africa.
  • Socio‑economic impacts – evaluating how energy access interventions improve health, education and economic outcomes.
  • Policy design – advising governments on programs that balance affordability with long‑term sustainability.

Industrial Energy & Deep Decarbonisation

Heavy industry—steel, chemicals, cement, fertilizers, refining, and high-temperature heat applications—accounts for almost one-third of global CO₂ emissions. As clean electricity becomes cost-competitive and new technologies mature, industrial decarbonisation has become a central focus of my research. I analyse technological pathways, cost trajectories, system impacts and policy frameworks needed to transition industries toward low-carbon production.

Explore More

For a complete list of my publications sorted by research theme, visit the Publications page. You can also follow my Google Scholar profile for the latest papers and citations.

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