Nepal electricity access reaches nearly 100 percent, Installed capacity hits 4,105 MW

KATHMANDU: Nepal has achieved near-universal electricity access, with 99.1 percent of the population now connected to the national power supply system, according to the Economic Survey 2082/83 presented by Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Waglé in Parliament.

The survey highlights significant progress in the country’s power sector, including rapid expansion of generation capacity, transmission infrastructure, and electricity exports.

Installed Capacity Reaches 4,105 MW

As of the current fiscal year, Nepal’s total installed electricity generation capacity has reached 4,105 megawatts (MW).

The energy mix includes:

• Hydropower: 3,798 MW
• Solar energy: 142 MW
• Alternative energy (AEPC-supported projects): 106.24 MW
• Thermal power: 53.4 MW
• Cogeneration (sugar mills): 6 MW

The data shows that hydropower continues to dominate Nepal’s energy structure, accounting for the overwhelming share of total installed capacity.

Private Sector Leads Power Generation

Out of the total electricity integrated into the national grid, the breakdown shows strong private sector participation:

• Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) projects: 661.57 MW
• NEA subsidiary companies: 748.4 MW
• Private sector projects: 2,587 MW

By Falgun 2082, a total of 3,997 MW has been connected to the national grid, reflecting rapid expansion of generation infrastructure in recent years.

Electricity Export to India Surges

Nepal has also strengthened its position as a regional power exporter. According to the survey, Nepal exported 2,918 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity to India during the review period (up to Falgun 2082).

This marks a significant milestone in Nepal’s energy trade, driven by increased hydropower production during monsoon months and improved cross-border transmission capacity.

Rising Number of Consumers

Electricity access expansion is also reflected in the growing number of consumers.

• As of Asar 2082: 5.708 million customers
• As of Falgun 2082: 5.859 million customers

This indicates steady growth in household electrification and industrial connections across the country.

Expansion of Transmission Infrastructure

Nepal’s transmission and distribution network has also expanded significantly:

Transmission Lines

• 66 kV and above: 7,280 circuit km (up from 7,161 km)
• 33 kV lines: 8,225 circuit km

Distribution Lines

• 400/230 volt distribution lines: 173,043 circuit km (up from 156,790 km)

The expansion reflects ongoing investment in strengthening grid reliability and expanding access to remote and rural areas.

Capacity Expected to Grow Further

The government estimates that by the end of fiscal year 2082/83, an additional 666 MW of electricity will be added, pushing Nepal’s total installed capacity to around 4,626 MW.

This projected growth underscores the rapid pace of hydropower development, supported by both public and private sector investment.

Near-Universal Access Achieved

With 99.1 percent electricity access, Nepal has nearly achieved universal electrification, marking a major milestone in infrastructure development.

The inclusion of alternative energy systems has further supported remote and off-grid communities, contributing to the country’s high coverage rate.

While Nepal has made strong progress in generation, transmission, and export, experts note that future priorities will include improving grid stability, expanding storage capacity, and ensuring balanced seasonal supply.

The energy sector is increasingly viewed as a key driver of economic growth, foreign exchange earnings, and industrial development.