Kathmandu: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, has announced that the issues plaguing small-scale hydropower projects will be addressed through policy-level reforms. Speaking at an event organized by ‘Green Energy Entrepreneur Nepal’, Minister Khadka emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving these challenges.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Khadka proposed a collaborative approach between the government and the private sector to advance the energy sector’s development. He stated that the ministry is prepared to tackle the problems by bringing all parties together for a comprehensive discussion. The Minister highlighted the government’s readiness to work with private entities to improve the country’s energy sector, particularly focusing on small-scale hydropower projects.
Minister Khadka also mentioned that the energy development roadmap, recently approved by the cabinet, aims to address the private sector’s concerns. This roadmap exemplifies the government’s dedication to resolving challenges faced by energy entrepreneurs.
Chairperson of Green Energy Entrepreneur Nepal, Surya Prasad Adhikari, echoed the need for policy adjustments. He specifically called for the revision of power purchase agreement rates for small-scale hydropower projects. Adhikari further demanded the implementation of the ‘take or pay’ provision and the removal of alternative arrangements for power production, underscoring the sector’s pressing needs.