Empowering a Greener Tomorrow: Nepal’s Energy Minister Khadka Pledges Sustainable Progress for a Net-Zero Future
At the “Energy Transition for Resilient and Low Carbon Economy Summit 2025” held in Kathmandu, Nepal’s Energy Minister Dipak Khadka announced comprehensive plans to establish a resilient and low-carbon economy by advancing sustainable and inclusive energy development. The government aims to boost domestic power consumption in the industrial sector while also promoting energy exports. Central to these efforts is the 10-year Energy Development Strategy, which sets ambitious goals for the nation, including increasing per capita power consumption to 1,500 units and generating 28,500 megawatts of power by 2035.
Minister Khadka highlighted the strategic involvement of the private sector in enhancing the energy sector’s infrastructure, especially through the construction and operation of transmission lines. He underscored that project-affected communities and households would be allotted shares, fostering local investment and community ownership. This approach is anticipated to strengthen the sector while encouraging financial involvement from local stakeholders.
Adding an international perspective, Pippa Bird, Deputy Ambassador of the British Embassy in Nepal, emphasized the crucial role of green finance in promoting renewable energy. She highlighted the necessity of developing a robust distribution system and infrastructure to maximize domestic power consumption and facilitate cross-border power transmission.
Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), linked energy development to broader issues like food security. He argued that Nepal stands to gain significantly in sectors such as public transport, agriculture, and tourism by leveraging clean energy. Dr. Gyamtsho advised prioritizing small hydropower projects over mega projects in countries like Nepal and Bhutan, where natural disasters pose significant risks.
These discussions signal a coordinated effort by Nepal to transition towards a sustainable energy future, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and community involvement.
Original Source: https://www.newsonair.gov.in/nepals-energy-minister-khadka-reassures-of-sustainable-energy-development-along-with-net-zero-carbon-emission/
Category : International
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-01-28 22:30:00
