The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation has announced the formation of two study committees to examine key policy, technical, financial and legal issues affecting Nepal’s electricity sector. According to a press release issued on Chaitra 19, 2082 BS, the decision follows the government’s commitment to administrative reforms approved by the Cabinet on Chaitra 13, 2082 BS. The ministry stated that the committees were established through a ministerial-level decision to make energy-sector operations more result-oriented, transparent and accountable.
The first committee, a six-member panel coordinated by Joint Secretary Dr. Rajan Bhattarai, will conduct a comprehensive review of the policy, technical and financial aspects of power purchase agreements (PPAs) concluded by the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). The committee will examine the current status of PPAs, identify policy, technical, legal and financial complexities, assess associated risks and recommend necessary reforms. It will also propose measures to make future PPA procedures more transparent, competitive and aligned with national interests.
The second committee, comprising five members and coordinated by Joint Secretary Mohan Shakya, will review the status and progress of electricity generation licences issued to various permit holders by the Department of Electricity Development. Its responsibilities include examining existing licences, identifying policy, technical, financial and legal weaknesses in the licensing process, and recommending improvements. The committee will also suggest reforms to make future electricity generation licensing procedures more transparent, competitive and consistent with national priorities.
Both committees are expected to provide recommendations that could support regulatory and administrative improvements in Nepal’s electricity sector. The ministry’s initiative focuses on strengthening oversight of power purchase arrangements and generation licensing while addressing procedural weaknesses and improving accountability. The press release was issued by Joint Secretary and Spokesperson Sandeep Kumar Dev.
