Renewable energy and energy efficiency are government’s priority: Minister Khadka

Kathmandu, Feb 20: Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Deepak Khadka, stated that creating a dedicated act regarding renewable energy and energy sufficiency is a priority for the government.

During his address at a program to exchange knowledge and experiences related to the implementation of the Nepal Renewable Energy Programme (NREP), a joint initiative of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre and the UK Government, he emphasized the government’s recognition of the need for a dedicated act to address renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The NREP has facilitated increased private sector investment in renewable energy projects and expanded citizens’ access to renewable energy, according to the Minister.

He noted that the Energy Development Roadmap and Action Plan, 2081 BS, recently endorsed by the Council of Ministers, has placed a high priority on renewable energy, energy sufficiency, and the clean energy transformation in line with international commitments regarding clean energy and climate change, as well as national goals.

The Roadmap aims to generate 28,500 megawatts of electricity, with an annual per capita consumption target of 1,500 units, while also seeking to expand electrification to 100% of households within the next two years through off-grid solar, wind, and micro hydropower development.

He mentioned that these initiatives would help Nepal meet its commitment to reducing carbon emissions to zero by 1045 BS, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Energy Ministry Secretary Suresh Acharya emphasized the need for cooperation and support from donors to achieve Nepal’s target of generating 28,500 megawatts of electricity by 2035.

Alternative Energy Promotion Centre Executive Director Nawaraj Dhakal, Program Coordinator Suman Basnet, and Renewable Energy Confederation of Nepal Chair Kushal Gurung acknowledged the support of the UK government and its people for the development and promotion of renewable energy in Nepal.

The six-year program, launched in January-February 2019, is set to conclude on March 31, 2025.

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