KATHMANDU: Experts and stakeholders convened at the Himalayan Hydro Expo 2024, organized by the Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN), underscored the need for diversifying Nepal’s energy production to include alternative sources such as hydrogen, solar, and wind energy alongside hydroelectricity.

During a session titled ‘Pioneering the Clean Energy Synergy’, participants emphasized that embracing alternative energy sources is imperative for ensuring energy security in the country.

Hydrogen expert and Kathmandu University Professor, Biraj Singh Thapa, highlighted the potential for Nepal to become a leading producer of hydrogen energy.

Citing a UK study, he noted that Nepal could produce the world’s cheapest hydrogen energy by leveraging a mix of solar, wind, and hydro resources.

Professor Thapa urged government-private sector collaboration to capitalize on this opportunity, citing Kathmandu University’s pioneering efforts in running hydrogen vehicles as a symbolic step forward.

Additionally, Thapa highlighted ongoing research between the Nepal Electricity Authority and Kathmandu University on utilizing ammonia as a future energy source.

Kuber Mani Nepal, an IPPAN member, advocated for solar energy as a viable alternative to traditional power sources, emphasizing its potential to address 60% of the country’s domestic power consumption.

Nepal called for dedicated policy frameworks to support solar energy development, citing gaps in existing legislation.

Kushal Gurung, an alternative energy producer, shared insights on his company’s experimentation with producing energy from organic waste in Pokhara.

He highlighted the vast potential for organic waste utilization in Nepal, with the capacity to produce over 2.5 million tonnes of organic fertilizer from just 20% of the country’s compostable waste.

The event also featured contributions from industry leaders such as Apar Neupane, CEO of Simple Energy, Dr. Laxman Ghimire, Deputy Director of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, and Laxmi Jha, Chief Development Engineer at the Ministry of Energy.

These discussions emphasized the diverse opportunities and scopes within the alternative energy sector, signaling a shift towards a more sustainable and diversified energy landscape in Nepal.