Fiscal Nepal
First Business News Portal in English from Nepal
KATHMANDU: The National Transmission Grid Company Limited (RPGCL) signed grid connection agreements with five hydropower companies on Tuesday, facilitating the integration of 607 megawatts (MW) into Nepal’s national grid. The agreements mark a significant step toward enhancing the country’s transmission infrastructure and supporting energy sector growth.
The agreements involve five projects: the 440 MW Tila 91 in Kalikot, the 72 MW Malumela Seti Peaking and 54 MW Mahakali Seti Semi-Reservoir in Bajhang, the 31.92 MW Upper Mewa Khola ‘A’ in Taplejung, and the 9.143 MW Super Daraundi in Gorkha. RPGCL CEO Sagar Shrestha and representatives of the hydropower companies formalized the deals, ensuring timely grid integration.
The projects will connect to the grid via key infrastructure: Tila 91 through the 400 kV double-circuit Karnali Corridor to Fukot Substation, Malumela and Mahakali Seti via the 400 kV West Seti Corridor to Chainpur Substation, Upper Mewa Khola ‘A’ through the 132 kV Mewa-Dhungesanghu line to Mewa Substation, and Super Daraundi via the 132 kV line to Kerabari Substation.
Energy Minister Deepak Khadka, speaking at the event, stressed the need for accelerated public-private partnerships to overcome Nepal’s energy sector challenges. “Energy is vital for economic and social development, not just lighting homes,” he said, noting past delays in projects like Arun III hindered progress. Khadka affirmed the government’s commitment to involving private players in transmission, distribution, and power trading to achieve sustainable growth.
Energy Secretary Suresh Acharya expressed confidence that private-sector collaboration would open new avenues for energy development. Electricity Regulatory Commission Chairman Dr. Ram Prasad Dhital acknowledged progress in power generation but highlighted persistent monopolies in transmission and distribution, emphasizing ongoing efforts to create frameworks for private involvement in infrastructure.
RPGCL’s CEO Shrestha revealed plans to advance 11 high-voltage transmission lines, with two expected to be operational this year. He noted the government’s target of 28,500 MW production, transmission, consumption, and export by 2035, requiring 16,000 circuit kilometers of transmission lines and 40,000 MVA substations.
SC Power Company’s Iman Singh Gurung, representing the promoters, defended the private sector’s role, stating it has driven Nepal’s hydropower growth despite past criticisms. He highlighted its contributions to tax revenue, employment, and socioeconomic development. The agreements signal a robust push toward strengthening Nepal’s energy infrastructure through collaborative efforts.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
