KATHMANDU, July 13

The US Embassy in Kathmandu on Monday announced the launch of Nepal Hydropower Development Project to support hydropower development in Nepal.

The US Embassy through the US Agency for International Development has announced the five-year project to support restructuring of the power sector with an aim to create viable national power services and promote expanded electricity trade between Nepal and India. Issuing a press statement, USAID stated that the $9.8-million project implemented by Deloitte Consulting LLP will support Nepal government’s efforts in expanding the country’s access to modern, high-quality hydropower services while helping the country become an energy exporter in South Asia.

“The work under NHDP is a key element of the US government’s support to power sector development in Nepal, “said Peter W Bodde, US Ambassador to Nepal in the statement. “Successful private sector engagement will play a crucial role in expanding Nepal’s hydropower sector while also increasing the amount of energy available for use in Nepal as well as regional exports,” he added.

Working with the Investment Board of Nepal, Nepal Electricity Authority, and Ministry of Energy, the project will help facilitate private sector investment in hydropower resources. The project is expected to bring about economic growth, create jobs and bring higher export revenues through electricity sales, better energy security by enhancing domestic generating capacity, said the embassy.