Attraction to solar power projects increasing

Kathmandu, Dec 5: The number of parties interested in investing in solar energy production has recently increased in the country.

As an alternative to hydropower which generates more electricity during the rainy season but less in winter, the attraction toward solar energy within the energy mix approach has grown.

According to the Department of Electricity Development, Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, a total of 97 projects have so far obtained survey permission for the production of 2,104 megawatts of electricity.

The recent surge in investment in solar energy is attributed to the government’s implementation of an energy mix strategy and a policy decision to ensure a proper price for solar-generated electricity, compared to that of hydropower.

As the Department reported, NRN Infrastructure and Development Limited is set to develop the 100-megawatt Rolpa Solar Power Project. The same company has also obtained survey permission for the 150-megawatt Arghakhanchi Solar Power Project.

CG Energy Infrastructure Pvt. Limited has acquired survey permission for the construction of the 25-megawatt Palpa Dambak Saurya Vidyut Aayojana (solar power project).

Similarly, the 10-megawatt Birat Barju Solar Power Project, Dangihat Solar Plant, and Badganga Solar Plant have also obtained survey permits. The department has so far granted electricity generation permits to 12 solar power projects, with a total capacity of 84 megawatts.

Additionally, five more projects have applied for survey permits, each with a capacity of 10 megawatts. According to the department, three projects with a total capacity of 15 megawatts have applied for electricity generation permits.