Nepal’s Overall Electricity Production Reaches 2,759 MW
July 18, 2023 | Investopaper
In the fiscal year 2079/80, Nepal’s national transmission system saw a notable increase with the addition of 491.28 megawatts (MW) of electricity. However, this achievement fell short of the government’s initial target by 225.72 MW. The government had aimed to connect 717 MW to the electricity system during this period, but despite the gap, significant progress was made in expanding the nation’s power generation capacity.
Over the course of a year, the country successfully integrated electricity from 21 hydropower and 6 solar power plants into the transmission system. The overall electricity capacity of Nepal has now reached 2,759 MW.
One noteworthy development in the private sector was the commissioning of the Solukhola Dudhkosi hydropower project, generating 86 MW. This achievement marked a significant milestone as it stands as the largest hydropower project developed by the private sector in the country. The project, developed by Sahas Urja Limited, commenced commercial electricity production on Falgun 17, 2079. With an investment of approximately 14 billion rupees, this venture holds substantial promise for Nepal’s energy landscape.
Additionally, several other hydropower projects contributed to the overall capacity. Notable among them were the Super Dordi ‘B’ (54 MW), Super Madi (44 MW), Upper Kalanga (38.46 MW), Upper Balephi ‘A’ (36 MW), Lower Likhu (28.1 MW), and Dordi Khola (27 MW) projects.
Furthermore, a host of other hydropower projects began commercial electricity production, bolstering the nation’s energy resources. These projects include Upper Dordi ‘A’ (25 MW), Upper Solu (18.23 MW), Kalanga (15.33 MW), Middle Modi (15.10 MW), Maya Khola (14.90 MW), Dordi-1 Khola (12 MW), Makari Gad (10 MW), Mid Solukhola (9.50 MW), Chepe Khola (8.63 MW), Rukum Gad (5 MW), Puwa-2 (4.96 MW), Upper Piluwa Khola-2 (4.72 MW), Upper Machakhola-2 (4.44 MW), and Saiti Khola (0.99 MW).
Solar power also played a crucial role in the energy landscape, with various solar projects contributing significantly. Notable among them were Simara Solar (1 MW), grid-connected solar PV (5 MW), and Som Radhakrishna Solar (4 MW). In addition, the grid-connected solar projects in Morang (6.80 MW), Nawalparasi (2 MW), and Banke (10 MW) also commenced commercial electricity generation.
However, despite these achievements, some projects faced delays and could not be completed during the fiscal year. Notably, the 82 MW Lower Solu Hydroelectric project, and the government’s targeted projects, including 111 MW Rasuwagadhi, 42.5 MW Sangen, and 14.8 MW Upper Sangen, experienced setbacks in their development.
Looking ahead, the government is determined to set ambitious goals for the new fiscal year 2080/81. It aims to add a significant 900 MW of electricity to the national transmission system during this period. The government made this announcement through the new fiscal year budget presented to the Federal Parliament on 15th Jestha. This target includes the completion of projects such as 111 MW Rusuwagadhi, 102 MW Bhotekoshi, and 42.5 MW Sangen. With an ultimate objective of reaching 3,600 MW of electricity by Ashad’s end in 2081 BS, the government seeks to propel Nepal towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
Recommended:
List Of Hydro-power Projects Under Construction in Nepal
List Of Hydropower Projects In Nepal (Developed By Private Sector)
