. Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav has said that Nepal could not only become energy self-reliant but also economically strong through the efficient utilization of hydropower and renewable energy. In his address to the 26th anniversary of Independent Power Producers’ Association of Nepal (IPPAN) here today, Minister Khatiwada said energy self-reliance was directly related to economic independence and national security.

Vice President Yadav stressed on the need of putting development and utilization of hydropower and renewable energy in national priority, saying Nepal has immense potentials for hydropower and renewable energy.TAG_OPEN_p_11 He was of the view that the country’s overall development would be accelerated if the use of clean energy produced within the country could be increased by reducing dependence on energy import.

According to him, cheap, reliable and adequate energy would be available to increase investment in industry, agriculture, tourism, information technology and service sectors, creating employment opportunities and achieving economic prosperity.TAG_OPEN_p_10 “Development is not possible without adequate energy,” he said, adding, “Energy is the backbone of prosperity.” ”

Vice President Yadav said the expansion of renewable energy would play a significant role in reducing carbon emission, maintaining environmental balance and facing the challenges of climate change.TAG_OPEN_p_9 He was of the view that expanding energy access to rural and remote areas would contribute to social justice, equal opportunity and inclusive development.

Stating that Nepal could play a leading role in regional energy trade by increasing investment in the energy sector and exporting electricity to neighbouring countries like India and Bangladesh, he said that a long-term policy, clear strategy and collaboration with the private sector was necessary for this.TAG_OPEN_p_8

Stressing on the need of prioritizing quality, transparency and accountability in energy production, Vice President Yadav stressed the need of adopting modern technology, research and innovation.TAG_OPEN_p_7 He also stressed the need for making arrangements to directly benefit the local communities affected by the energy projects and a long-term energy strategy that includes production, distribution, storage and export.

Appreciating the role played by IPPAN in the development of Nepal’s energy sector for more than TAG_OPEN_p_6 two decades, he pledged that the government is always ready to cooperate to build an energy-independent, green and prosperous Nepal.