Nepal’s Energy Sector Eyes Geopolitical Dynamics and Infrastructure Expansion for Regional Trade

KATHMANDU: Experts convened at the 4th edition of the Himalayan Hydro Expo-2024 to underscore the critical role of geopolitical considerations and infrastructure development in shaping Nepal’s energy landscape and fostering regional energy trade.

During the technical session on ‘Energy Mobility and Regional Trade,’ hosted by the Independent Power Producers Association, Nepal (IPPAN), stakeholders emphasized the need for a nuanced approach to address geopolitical influences on Nepal’s water resources and energy development.

Arun Kumar Subedi, an expert in economic and geopolitical affairs, highlighted the delicate balance required to navigate geopolitical complexities while leveraging Nepal’s energy resources for regional prosperity. Subedi stressed the importance of managing geopolitical influences to unlock Nepal’s full potential in energy trade, drawing parallels with strategic global hubs like Djibouti and Singapore.

Subedi emphasized the significance of bilateral and trilateral water resource agreements to expedite energy development and enhance regional cooperation. He cautioned against emotional biases in diplomatic relations and advocated for pragmatic approaches to energy diplomacy.

Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Sandeep Kumar Dev, outlined the government’s initiatives to expand transmission infrastructure and facilitate electricity trade. Dev underscored the importance of bilateral and trilateral energy agreements, alongside the construction of high-capacity transmission lines, to meet Nepal’s ambitious energy targets.

Former Deputy Executive Directors of Nepal Electricity Authority, Rajiv Sharma and Prabal Adhikari, shed light on the challenges hindering Nepal’s energy trade, including inadequate transmission infrastructure and policy inconsistencies. They urged concerted efforts to enhance internal transmission capacity and streamline energy sector restructuring to maximize trade opportunities.

Krishna Prasad Acharya, former chairman of IPPAN, highlighted the private sector’s pivotal role in Nepal’s energy development and urged policymakers to incentivize private sector participation through favorable policies and partnerships.

Ashish Garg, vice president of IPPAN, underscored the imperative of diplomatic engagement to address geopolitical challenges and facilitate energy trade.

The culmination of the expo marked a significant milestone in Nepal’s energy discourse, with participants advocating for pragmatic strategies to harness the country’s energy potential and foster regional collaboration. Through continued dialogue and collaborative efforts, Nepal aims to emerge as a key player in the regional energy landscape, driving sustainable development and prosperity.