Kathmandu. National Transmission Grid Company Limited and five major hydropower promoter companies have signed an important agreement on grid connection. Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Deepak Khadka was the chief guest at a special ceremony here today.

The signatories to the agreement included E Sagar Shrestha, CHIEF Executive Officer of National Grid Transmission Company and representatives of various hydropower promoter companies. The major signatories are SC Power Company Pvt Ltd, Surma Sarobar Hydropower Pvt Ltd, Mata Malika Energy Multiple Pvt Ltd, Surya Holding Private Limited and Himjal Hydropower Pvt Ltd.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Deepak Khadka expressed his views on the importance of the power sector and the role of the private sector related to the agreement.  “Lack of proper promotion and investment management in the energy sector has put a big obstacle in nepal’s path to prosperity. Only such agreements will help us bring about the necessary reforms in the energy sector. ‘

Energy Secretary Suresh Acharya, Chairman of Electricity Regulatory Commission Dr. Dipu Moni were present on the occasion. Prominent personalities including Ram Prasad Dhital and Iman Singh Gurung, who represents hydropower companies, also spoke on the occasion.

Tila-1 Hydropower Project (440 MW, Kalikot) promoted by SC Power Company Pvt. Ltd., Mahakali Seti Semi-Reservoir Hydropower Project (54 MW, Bajhang) by Surma Sarobar Hydropower Pvt. Ltd., Malumela Setindi Picking Hydropower Project (72 MW, Bajhang) by Mata Malika Energy Multiple Pvt. Ltd., Upper Mewa Khola A Hydropower Project (31.92 MW, Taplejung) by Surya Holding Private Limited and Upper Mewa Khola A Hydropower Project (31.92 MW) by Shree Himjal Hydropower Pvt. Ltd. Gorkha)

National Broadcasting Grid Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with hydropower promoter companies.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Energy Deepak Khadka said, “Although Nepal has made some progress recently, it seems that we have not made miraculous progress in the energy sector compared with China and India.” Nepal has lagged behind due to lack of timely implementation of energy plans. ‘

“Energy is essential not only for lighting the lights of the house, but for the economic and social development of the entire nation. Minister Khadka pointed out the need to work in collaboration with the government and private sector to create a new strategy and investment environment in the energy sector in the coming days.

In the agreement, national grid transmission companies and promoter companies have agreed to integrate their hydropower generation into the national grid and upgrade the transmission line in a timely manner. It is expected to bring more stability and development to Nepal’s energy sector.

Various officials present on the occasion pledged to focus on timely energy generation and management, which would contribute significantly to the structural reforms taking place in Nepal’s energy sector.