Three hydropower projects in Nepal - Mai Beni HPP, Chuwa Khola Cascade HEP and Upper Chuwa Lurupya Khola HEP - have qualified for the prestigious International Hydropower Association (IHA) Blue Planet Prize 2025. The qualification mark how the country is taking strides towards sustainable hydropower development; recognising that the only acceptable hydropower is sustainable hydropower.

The IHA Blue Planet Prize recognises global hydropower projects that demonstrate excellence in sustainability development, assessed under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS) between 1 July 2023 and 13 June 2025. Prize winners will be announced at the International Forum on Pumped Storage Hydropower, taking place at UNESCO House in Paris on 9-10 September 2025.

The inclusion of three projects from Nepal among 14 total qualifiers highlights the country’s dedication to integrating sustainability into its energy infrastructure and aligning with global standards for environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Eddie Rich, CEO of the International Hydropower Association, commented: “It is great to see so many Nepalese projects adopting the Hydropower Sustainability Standard. Nepal is blessed with mountains and plentiful water, so it is heartening to see it making use of this abundance at one of the fastest rates of hydropower development anywhere in the world. However, the country is ecologically fragile, so the emphasis on building sustainable projects is an imperative. Having three projects qualified for the Blue Planet Prize demonstrates that the country is putting sustainability at the centre of this development. IHA opened its Himalayas Office in Kathmandu last year and we are pleased to support Nepal’s progress. Congratulations to all the nominees and we look forward to announcing the winner of this year’s prize at the International Forum on Pumped Storage Hydropower in Paris in September.”

Nepal’s Sustainable Milestone

The Mai Beni HPP (9.51 MW, Ilam) achieved Gold Certification, reflecting its outstanding performance in environmental management, community engagement and operational excellence in adherence to the HSS, while the Chuwa Khola Cascade HEP (98.17 MW) and Upper Chuwa Lurupya Khola HEP (110.20 MW), both in Humala District, have earned Certified status, demonstrating international good practice across all applicable topics. In addition to these projects, four more Nepali hydropower projects are currently undergoing formal HSS assessments, reinforcing Nepal’s commitment to sustainable energy development.

Alain Kilajian, Deputy Executive Director, HSA, commented: “It has been inspiring to see the progress being made on the ground in Nepal. While Nepal has all the natural conditions for hydropower (gravity and water), there remain numerous ESG risks that still need to be addressed. Working alongside the teams behind these projects, you can see the dedication to doing things the right way - building trust with communities and driving climate resilient projects. That’s what the Hydropower Sustainability Standard is all about. These prize qualifications show what’s possible with a genuine commitment to sustainable development.

Bhanu Pokharel, Managing Director, Urja Developers added: “Integrating environmental, social and governance considerations into business strategies is more than a mere option; it is an obligation toward our planet and future generations. We are committed giving prominence to sustainability standards in Nepal’s energy sector and creating long-term value for all stakeholders. We are encouraged with the qualification of Mai Beni Hydropower Project (9.51 MW) for Blue Planet Awards by IHA.”

Sushil Pokharel, Vice- Chair of IHA & Founder of Bizbell, added: “Nepal’s adoption of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard reflects our commitment to excellence, accountability, and responsible energy development. This milestone presents not only Nepal but the wider South Asian region with an opportunity to demonstrate that hydropower can serve as a cornerstone of clean, inclusive, and sustainable growth.”

Nepal is advancing energy independence and regional unity, confronting climate challenges while nurturing ecosystems and uplifting communities. The nation rallies all partners to harness its rivers, creating an enduring legacy of clean energy that inspires a vibrant, sustainable future for generations to come.