Synonyms: Nepalese President Ram Chandra Paudel, hydroelectric exhibition, renewable energy, economic growth, energy summit, water resources, sustainable development.
President Ram Chandra Paudel of Nepal ceremoniously inaugurated the Himalayan Hydro Expo 2024 in Kathmandu today, marking a significant step towards harnessing green energy for national prosperity. Organized by the Independent Power Producers' Association Nepal, the Expo coincides with the Investment Summit in Nepal and underscores the country's commitment to sustainable energy development.
Addressing the gathering, President Paudel highlighted the vast potential for economic growth through the rapid expansion of the energy sector in Nepal. Under the theme "Green Energy for Prosperity," the Expo aims to showcase Nepal's capabilities in renewable energy and attract investment for sustainable development initiatives.
President Paudel emphasized the government's steadfast dedication to prioritizing the energy sector as a cornerstone of Nepal's economic prosperity. With a focus on energy self-sufficiency, Nepal is transitioning from an energy-importing nation to an energy-exporting powerhouse, bolstering its energy security and fostering economic growth.
Acknowledging Nepal's agreements to export electricity to neighboring India and ambitious targets for electricity production, President Paudel underscored the shared responsibility of the government and the private sector in driving sustainable energy development. The Expo serves as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation, bringing together stakeholders to chart a path towards a greener and more prosperous future.
Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Shakti Bahadur Basnet, echoed President Paudel's sentiments, emphasizing the immense potential for hydropower development in Nepal. The government's action plan aims to produce 28,700 megawatts of electricity in the next 12 years, supported by legislative reforms and investment incentives.
Ganesh Karki, President of the Independent Power Producers Association Nepal (IPPAN), highlighted the significant investment in hydropower projects and the sector's contribution to economic growth and employment. With over 500,000 citizens employed in the sector, hydropower development emerges as a key driver of Nepal's socio-economic progress.
In a show of international solidarity, Canadian Ambassador to Nepal, Cameron MacKay, pledged Canada's support for Nepal's hydropower sector, offering expertise and resources for project development. The Expo, slated to conclude on Friday, presents a unique opportunity for collaboration and knowledge exchange, paving the way for a sustainable energy future in Nepal and beyond.
