KATHMANDU, JUNE 6 Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has said green hydrogen presents a major opportunity for building Nepal's sustainable future and advancing clean energy development. Addressing a workshop on the national review of green hydrogen initiatives organized by the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre in Kathmandu on Friday, Minister Shrestha said Nepal has significant potential to produce green hydrogen by utilizing its abundant clean energy resources. He noted that green hydrogen is increasingly being used worldwide to reduce carbon emissions in industries, transportation and energy storage, while strengthening energy security and supporting climate commitments. He stressed that Nepal should capitalize on growing global investment in the sector to promote industrial development, diversify energy sources and explore export opportunities. The minister said the government has already implemented the Green Hydrogen Policy-2080 and allocated funds in the upcoming fiscal year's budget for a pilot commercial production project. He also called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, development partners, universities, research institutions and the private sector. Energy Ministry Secretary Chiranjibi Chataut said the budget has earmarked resources for a 2.5-megawatt green hydrogen pilot plant in Hetauda, Makwanpur. Similarly, Nawaraj Dhakal, executive director of the Centre, said assessments are underway on the implementation status of the Green Hydrogen Policy, potential projects and investment priorities. Recommendations from the workshop will help formulate an action plan focusing on policy implementation, research, pilot projects, safety standards, technical capacity building and international collaboration for large-scale green hydrogen development.