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The Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) organized a workshop in Kathmandu titled “Review of Initiatives for Green Hydrogen Development in Nepal.” The event was chaired by Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC).

Minister Shrestha stated that policy measures aimed at expanding renewable energy, developing hydropower, and promoting a clean energy transition have enabled green hydrogen to secure an important place within Nepal’s national energy system. He noted that green hydrogen is gradually emerging as an energy carrier capable of decarbonizing the energy, industrial, and transportation sectors.

He further highlighted the importance of strengthening legal and policy frameworks and informed participants that the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Bill is being advanced for approval during the current parliamentary session. Following the bill’s approval, Nepal will have a stronger legal and regulatory framework to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency through integrated implementation mechanisms.

While presiding over the opening session, Chiranjibi Chataut, Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, remarked that Nepal’s efforts to develop green hydrogen are primarily driven by the goals of utilizing its water resources, enhancing energy security, reducing fossil fuel imports, and achieving climate change targets. Given the country’s substantial hydropower potential, he emphasized that green hydrogen can serve as a means of converting surplus electricity into a high-value clean fuel.

He also stated that the workshop had generated valuable recommendations from stakeholders regarding the development and expansion of green hydrogen and assured participants that the Ministry remains committed to providing the necessary policy guidance and support. The government has accorded high priority to green hydrogen development in its long-term plans, policies, and strategies. To initiate commercial-scale production, budgetary provisions have been allocated for implementing a 2.5 MW Green Hydrogen Plant in Hetauda as a pilot project.

Welcoming participants, Nawaraj Dhakal, Executive Director of AEPC, discussed ongoing efforts to establish laboratory facilities and strengthen cooperation with development partners and other stakeholders. He noted that green hydrogen is increasingly recognized worldwide as an important tool for achieving energy transition and net-zero emission goals. Its application is expanding particularly in industry, transportation, and long-term energy storage. He stressed the need for technical and safety standards to support the development of this technology in Nepal.

Dr. Narayan Prasad Adhikari, Deputy Executive Director of AEPC, delivered a technical presentation on green hydrogen. The presentation covered the current status of green hydrogen development in Nepal, ongoing initiatives, challenges, opportunities, and future roadmaps.

The second session of the program consisted of a technical discussion. Representatives from various organizations active in the green hydrogen sector—including the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat, Nepal Electricity Authority, Nepal Oil Corporation, Asian Development Bank, World Bank, Tribhuvan University (Tri-Chandra Campus), Global Green Growth Institute, Nepal Energy Foundation, and Butwal Power Company—gave brief presentations on their institutions’ efforts, current activities, and future plans related to green hydrogen.

The technical session was chaired by Sandeep Kumar Dev, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, who delivered concluding remarks and expressed gratitude to all participants.

Green hydrogen is increasingly being recognized worldwide as a clean energy carrier capable of decarbonizing high-emission sectors such as industry, transportation, and energy storage. It is viewed as a key solution for improving energy security, supporting industrial development, and advancing climate goals.

According to a press release issued by Parbati Bhatta, Deputy Director and Information Officer,Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC), conduct studies, research, and pilot projects in accordance with the strategies and action plans outlined in the Green Hydrogen Policy, 2080 (2023/24). Develop safety and technical standards related to green hydrogen.

Produce skilled technical manpower and strengthen the capacity of relevant stakeholders. Implement large-scale green hydrogen projects through international assistance and climate finance cooperation.

Enhance coordination and collaboration among stakeholders and experts working in the green hydrogen sector. Improve the financial viability of green hydrogen and promote its commercialization.