Government Faces Criticism for Delays in Power Purchase Agreements
Summary
The government is facing sharp criticism over long delays in power purchase agreements for hydropower projects, leaving billions in private investment and thousands of megawatts in limbo. Energy entrepreneurs say the promised 180-day resolution has not materialized, while the Nepal Electricity Authority and the Energy Ministry remain stuck on stalled files.
Key Points
- Power purchase agreements for hydropower projects have remained stalled for months despite government promises to speed them up.
- Energy entrepreneurs say delays have put 16,500 megawatts from 281 projects and billions in private investment at risk.
- The Nepal Electricity Authority issued notices for 54 projects with 4,966 MW, but the process has still not moved forward after more than 15 months.
- Ministry and NEA officials say the cases are under study, while private sector leaders accuse the government of tightening policy instead of facilitating investment.
