London. Former Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) Kulman Ghising has said that nepal has got the opportunity to become a regional energy center, but for this, the right policy and leadership should be required.

Ghising, who is currently on a visit to the UK, said in a policy discussion on ‘Challenges and Prospects of Nepal’s Energy Sector’ held in south-east London that Nepal had to face up to 18 hours of load shedding daily for almost a decade ago, but institutional reforms, efficient energy management, and commitment to services have succeeded in ending load-shedding.

“Nepal’s electricity penetration has increased from 56 percent to about 100 percent, and the Electricity Authority has made profits from losses, which has made it possible to invest again in transmission and production,” he said. ’

He recalled that Nepal’s hydropower journey started 115 years ago with The Farping Hydropower Project in 1911 and Sundari Hydropower Project in 1939 with British assistance.  “Today, there are more than 3,800 MW installed capacity and thousands of MW of pipelines. Our target is to reach 28,500 MW by 2035, out of which 15,000 MW will be set aside for export. ’

“A long-term power trade agreement has already been signed with India, exports to Bangladesh have already started, which is opening up a regional energy route with Bhutan. There is also a possibility of connecting with China in the future,” he said.

Ghising said india and Bangladesh need stable and clean electricity, giving Nepal the opportunity to become a regional energy hub. Our hydropower can balance the solar-dependent grid, reduce emissions, and act as a catalyst for growth. He said That Nepal is also studying green hydrogen for future energy source and industrial use.

He also said that Nepal needs international assistance to meet the challenge of climate change. Referring to his unexpected removal from the post with only four months left in office, Ghising said it pointed to political instability and lack of accountability.

“The youth of Nepal want change. They want a leadership that will give them results. That is why I am continuing my journey through the Ujjal Nepal campaign,” he said.

Prof Dr Tejendra Ferrali of UCL Institute of Education lauded Ghising’s leadership and contribution in ending load shedding.

On the occasion, 77-year-old Raymond Keen, Grand Master of World Chess, presented ghising with a letter of honour and tony boozon medal. On behalf of Lord Rami Ranger, a member of the House of Lords, the upper house of the British Parliament, his aide Atta Haq made a brief speech. Sujan Katuwal of Panas Helping Hand thanked everyone.