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Delegation of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) with Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha on Monday. Photo: TRN

A delegation of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) met Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha on Monday and discussed issues related to the development of the energy sector.

During the meeting, CNI President Birendra Raj Pandey emphasised the need to adopt policies aimed at increasing electricity consumption.

He suggested implementing a framework that allows industries to produce the energy they require and transmit it by paying wheeling charges.

According to a press statement of CNI, he also recommended permitting the private sector to engage in both domestic and international electricity trade.

President Pandey urged the government to immediately sign Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with all projects that have completed surveys and received government approval but are still awaiting agreements.

He highlighted the importance of increasing domestic electricity consumption and called for incentives to replace fossil fuel-based industrial systems with electric alternatives.

He also stressed the need to focus on alternative energy sources.

On the occasion, Minister Shrestha reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing the energy sector in collaboration with the private sector.

He said that the government is working on strategies to increase domestic electricity consumption alongside boosting exports.

He added that reservoir-based and renewable energy projects, as well as policies to enhance electricity usage, are being given high priority.

The Minister also expressed the need for clear recommendations from the private sector on how the energy sector can contribute more significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

CNI Vice President Gokul Bhandari, executive member Vidushi Rana, President of the CNI Young Entrepreneurs Forum Manish Shrestha, and Director General Dr. Ghanshyam Ojha, among others, attended the meeting.