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The government has included topics ranging from policy reforms in the energy sector to reducing procedural complexities in its list of 100 governance reform agendas. The government plans to prepare and implement a roadmap for structural reforms of the Nepal Electricity Authority. The agenda also includes developing a multi-dimensional financial structure that incorporates government, private, foreign, and diaspora investments to ensure long-term financing for the energy sector.

The agenda incorporates plans such as policy improvements in the energy sector, enhancement of service delivery, and promotion of investment - areas that were also prioritized in the election manifestos of various political parties, including the ruling National Independent Party (Rastriya Swatantra Party - RSP).

A Cabinet meeting held on Friday, shortly after the formation of the government, decided to prepare a strategy within one month for the broader development of the energy sector as well as for electricity export.

Point 53 of the agenda mentions making the One-Stop Service Center under the Department of Industry more effective by delegating additional authority to its staff in order to improve the investment climate. Although the center has been in operation for years, it has lacked adequate decision-making capacity. Point 58 states that business registration, tax registration, bank account opening, and other required approvals will be integrated into a single platform, which will be developed within 45 days. It also mentions that the investment modality of all projects registered with the Investment Board will be made mandatory.

To provide integrated, timely, and convenient services to both domestic and foreign investors, a one-door approval system under the Investment Board Nepal will be brought into operation within one month.

Targeting a private sector that has shown limited enthusiasm for new ventures and investments, the government plans to formulate and implement a strategy for private sector protection and promotion. This aims to restore confidence by ensuring economic stability and strengthening the investment environment. A Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit will also be established immediately to integrate and make results-oriented the systems of investment, production, export, productivity, and development finance.

Industries with investments up to NPR 250 million will be registered solely through the Cottage and Small Industries Office, and the registration fee will be waived within 45 days.

“Economic Transformation Through Energy”

Point 74 elaborates extensively on the development of the energy sector. It states that a strategy for electricity export will be prepared within one month. The government aims to develop the energy sector as the main foundation for economic transformation by removing obstacles related to electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and export.

Long-pending decisions regarding Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) and licensing - issues repeatedly raised by the private sector - will be resolved within 180 days.

The government has adopted a policy to advance the development of the energy sector as a key driver of economic transformation. It aims to ensure rapid development by removing barriers related to electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and export. Additionally, the strategy will focus on exporting electricity to markets that offer higher prices and during peak evening demand periods.