KATHMANDU, JANUARY 10

Micro/mini and small hydropower projects are capable of playing a role in the mitigation of climate change impact, experts said highlighting the sustainability of such projects. Thus the government, private sector, and community are required to develop suitable institutional infrastructure for the sustainable operation of smallscale hydro projects'

Joining a discussion session organised on the occasion of the sixth AGM of Nepal Energy Foundation, they said hydel projects had contributed to the reduction of the use of fossil fuels such as diesel and kerosene and supporting the people's livelihood efforts. That's why they were interrelated.

National Planning Commission member Prof Surendra Lal Karna was of the view that in the context of Nepal, small and micro hydropower projects were more useful and friendly for users due to its geographical and economic conditions. The NPC has focused on sustainability of micro hydropower projects by incorporating this in the sustainable development goals and the 15th Periodic Plan as well, according to him. He drew the attention of the bodies concerned towards the rising incidences of natural disasters and other environmental issues for some years in the country.

He said, the cases were consequences of climate change.

AEPC Deputy Executive Director Nawaraj Dhakal, highlighting on the initiatives being taken in Nepal for reducing climate change effects, said the country should be able to reap benefit from the commitment made by the participating countries in the UN Climate Change Summit, the COP 26, for promoting alternative energy.

He pointed out the possibility of Nepal benefiting from carbon trade by registering small hydropower projects under the clean development mechanism.

Foundation president Mohandas Manandhar urged one and all to hold extensive discussions at several levels on the topic of climate change, its causes and measures of reducing it and to suggest ways of minimising its adverse impact.

Foundation Executive Director Dilli Ghimire suggested increasing the access of poor communities to energy and emphasised renewable energy for reducing climate change effects. He also shed light on various alternatives of sustainable operation of small hydropower projects in Nepal.

Advocate Dilraj Khanal made a presentation on the various provisions in the existing Acts and laws related to small and micro-hydel projects and the confusions therein.

A music video to raise public awareness on electricity safety was also released on the occasion.

A version of this article appears in the print on January 11, 2022, of The Himalayan Times.