New Energy Minister Directs Preparation for Potential Energy Crisis Amid West Asian Tensions

Kathmandu. The newly appointed Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Birajbhakta Shrestha, has directed the management of potential crises in Nepal's energy sector stemming from tensions in West Asia. This directive was issued during a discussion with subordinate bodies after assuming office at the Ministry of Energy on Friday, specifically addressing the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA).

Minister Shrestha instructed NEA Executive Director Hitemdra Dev Shakya to take necessary steps to manage the energy crisis and its potential impacts. Minister Shrestha expressed particular interest in load management and raising public awareness regarding electricity consumption.

Executive Director Shakya informed the Minister that there are currently no issues with electricity supply and that the Authority is prepared to handle any sudden demand. He assured the Minister that the load on transformers is being regularly monitored and that any potential issues would be managed proactively.

Minister Shrestha inquired about the potential impact if a large number of people simultaneously use electrical appliances, such as induction stoves. He asked Executive Director Shakya, "Can we handle it if people use induction stoves and other electrical appliances in large numbers at the same time?"

In response to Energy Minister Shrestha, Executive Director Shakya stated that there is a risk of transformers burning out if the load increases significantly at once, adding that the Authority has implemented a pre-warning system to manage this. He reassured the Minister that the Authority is fully prepared to handle gradually increasing loads.

The Minister emphasized the need to raise public awareness to reduce the use of electrical appliances during peak hours (times of high electricity consumption). Minister Shrestha suggested that people should be advised to charge electric vehicles or perform other tasks after 11 PM when the load is expected to decrease.

He stressed the importance of educating the public that up to 20 percent of energy savings can be achieved by turning off unused electrical appliances and chargers. Shakya also informed that the NEA is preparing to introduce a dynamic pricing model for load management.

He stated that preparations are underway to implement differential tariffs through the use of smart meters, where electricity tariffs will be higher during peak hours and lower during off-peak hours. This is expected to encourage people to consume electricity during off-peak times.

The Minister also showed interest in the use of batteries and pumped hydro storage for energy security. Shakya informed that the Authority is studying the use of these technologies and will soon introduce relevant policies. Minister Shrestha emphasized the need for the Authority to move forward with long-term plans, making its operations systematic and technology-friendly.