Private firm to launch wind power project

Kathmandu, March 28:

The USP Wind Power System is set to launch a wind power project with a view to lighting remote parts of the country.

“We have started working on the project. We have set up a test plant with a capacity to generate 1 KW of power at Nil Saraswatisthan in Kathmandu,” said Surendra Bahadur Singh, managing director, UWPS.

He said the test project was successful. “We can install it at any place where a wind blows at the speed of 9 kph,” he added. “Even the people in the urban areas can get rid of the frequent power cut by installing such plants.”

According to the UWPS, turbines made in UK and Canada were more reliable, durable and effective. The turbines 500W to 7.5 KW capacity can be used as per the need. “A 500W turbine can generate power for a household whereas a 7.5KW turbine can generate energy for up to 50 households,” said Gokarna Lamichhane, director of the UWPS. He added the cost of a turbine ranges from Rs 300,000 to Rs two million. “The power generated from these turbines can operate computers, TVs and water pumps,” he added. “In India, the government provides 80 per cent subsidy on installation of such plants.”

Singh said they have urged the PM to provide subsidy for people in remote areas and exempt taxes on import of such turbines.