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The Independent Power Producers' Association, Nepal has submitted a 12-point memorandum to the Electricity Regulatory Commission, urging the immediate implementation of the necessary legal and regulatory provisions to allow the private sector to participate in electricity trading.

During a courtesy meeting with the Commission's newly appointed Chairperson, Dr. Ram Prasad Dhital, and other commission members, an IPPAN delegation led by its President, Mohan Kumar Dangi, highlighted the need for policy and regulatory reforms to support the development and expansion of Nepal's power sector and to create an investment-friendly environment for private investors.

IPPAN President Dangi emphasized that the Commission should play a facilitative role in promoting the growth and expansion of the electricity sector. He noted that continuous dialogue and cooperation between the Commission and the private sector are essential to resolve the policy and implementation challenges faced by privately developed hydropower projects.

He further stated that the Commission should focus on major policy issues rather than minor procedural matters and work toward creating an environment that promotes national prosperity through the development of the energy sector.

In its memorandum, IPPAN urged the Commission to prioritize several key issues, including:

Implementing open access to the electricity transmission and distribution system.

Allowing the private sector to engage in bilateral electricity trading.

Developing internationally bankable standard Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) templates.

Establishing an effective dispute resolution mechanism.

Simplifying, increasing the transparency of, and setting clear timelines for approval processes.

Speaking at the event, Commission Chairperson Dr. Dhital reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to prioritizing cooperation, dialogue, and coordination with the private sector. He clarified that the Commission's role extends beyond regulation to promoting the sustainable development of the electricity sector, encouraging investment, and safeguarding consumer interests. He also stated that the Commission would carefully review the recommendations submitted by the private sector and take the necessary initiatives to implement appropriate reforms.