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

KATHMANDU: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, has said that a dedicated act for renewable energy and energy efficiency is a priority for the government.

Speaking at a programme in Kathmandu today, organised to exchange learnings and experiences regarding the implementation of the Nepal Renewable Energy Programme (NREP), Minister Khadka stressed the need for dedicated legislation to address renewable energy and energy efficiency. The NREP is a joint initiative of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre and the UK Government.

Minister Khadka highlighted that the NREP has encouraged private sector investment in renewable energy projects and increased citizens' access to renewable energy. He also mentioned the recently endorsed Energy Development Roadmap and Action Plan, 2081 BS, which prioritises renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean energy transformation in both international commitments and national goals.

The Roadmap aims to generate 28,500 megawatts (MW) of electricity and achieve an annual per capita consumption of 1,500 units. It targets expanding electrification to 100% of households within the next two years through off-grid solar, wind, and micro hydropower development. These initiatives are expected to help Nepal meet its commitments to reducing carbon emissions to zero as per the Paris Agreement.

Suresh Acharya, Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, stressed the need for cooperation and support from donors to achieve Nepal's target of generating 28,500MW of electricity by 2035. 

British Ambassador to Nepal, Rob Fenn, speaking at the programme, underscored the importance of developing the renewable energy sector to meet international commitments to reduce carbon emissions to zero.

Alternative Energy Promotion Centre's Executive Director Nawaraj Dhakal, programme coordinator Suman Basnet, and Renewable Energy Confederation of Nepal's 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 programme, launched in January-February 2019, will conclude on March 31, 2025.

By RSS