KATHMANDU: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Kulman Ghising, has said that misinformation and confusion have been spread regarding the agreement with the Indian company PTC for electricity management during the winter season.
He stated that the decision was made not for personal gain, influence, or any unfair reason, but in the national interest and for the benefit of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA).
Speaking on Sunday morning, Minister Ghising said, “Some confusion has been spread about the agreement with the Indian company PTC for managing electricity during the upcoming winter season. I want to make it clear that this decision was not made for any personal interest, influence, or unjust reason, but entirely in the interest of the nation and the Nepal Electricity Authority.”
According to him, Nepal’s hydropower system—based largely on river flow—requires electricity exports during the monsoon season and limited imports during the dry season.
“We have decided to purchase electricity following long-standing practice, by obtaining approval from the Electricity Regulatory Commission and ensuring procurement at the lowest possible rate through a regular and transparent process. This guarantees stable supply during winter and prevents the need to import electricity at rates as high as Rs 10 per unit,” he said.
“If this step had not been taken in time, we would have risked resorting to expensive alternatives or even facing shortages. Therefore, this decision has been made entirely in the interest of the nation, the authority, and the people. Let us not be misled,” Minister Ghising added.
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