Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Deepak Khadka has called on investors to capitalize on opportunities in the hydropower sector, asserting that the market for electricity generated is guaranteed. Speaking at the financial management signing ceremony for the 77.5 MW Ghunsa Khola Hydropower Limited, which is set to be constructed by Remit Hydro Limited in Taplejung’s Ghunsa Khola, Minister Khadka emphasized the assured market for hydropower.

He highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding transmission lines alongside electricity production, aiming to meet an internal consumption target of 13,500 MW by 2035 and to export 15,000 MW of electricity to neighboring countries, India and Bangladesh. “With the market already secured for the electricity produced, invest in this sector with confidence,” he stated.

Minister Khadka also noted that provisions have been put in place to encourage private sector involvement in transmission line construction, ensuring that electricity production won’t be wasted due to infrastructure gaps. With the transmission line work progressing rapidly, he assured that investment in this sector is becoming increasingly secure.

Under the “People’s Hydropower Program,” the government plans to provide shares worth Rs. 200,000 to Rs. 500,000 at concessional rates, without collateral, to impoverished citizens in affected areas. This initiative aims to uplift the living standards of marginalized communities through hydropower development.

He emphasized that a prosperous nation cannot be built without first elevating underprivileged citizens financially. Minister Khadka also mentioned the growing national unity among political parties for development.

The hydropower sector has faced setbacks due to the Supreme Court’s annulment of the amended provisions of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. Minister Khadka urged a reconsideration of the decision, stressing that hydropower projects would significantly contribute to achieving national goals. He called on construction companies to work diligently to complete projects on time.

The Ghunsa Hydropower Project is being led by Laxmi Sunrise Bank Limited, with investments from Hydroelectricity Investment and Development Company Limited (HIDCL), Nepal Electricity Authority, Citizen Investment Trust, Machhapuchhre Bank, and others. HIDCL’s CEO, Arjun Kumar Gautam, shared that the project is moving forward after nine years of study.

The total cost of the project is NPR 18.13 billion, and it is slated for completion within four years.

Source: Kantipur