LONDON: Former Managing Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), Kulman Ghising, has said Nepal has a historic opportunity to establish itself as a regional energy hub, but emphasized that the right policies and leadership are crucial to realize this goal.
Speaking at a policy discussion on “Challenges and Opportunities in Nepal’s Energy Sector” in South East London, Ghising recalled Nepal’s journey from crippling power shortages to surplus electricity.
“About a decade ago, Nepal suffered up to 18 hours of daily load-shedding. But through institutional reforms, efficient energy management, and service commitment, we were able to end load-shedding,” he said.
According to Ghising, electricity access has expanded from 56 percent to nearly 100 percent, while the NEA has moved from losses to profitability, enabling reinvestment in generation and transmission. “Today, Nepal exports electricity to India and Bangladesh, with almost 100 percent of our energy coming from clean, renewable sources,” he noted.
Ghising also highlighted Nepal’s hydropower legacy, recalling the Pharping Hydropower Project (1911) and the Sundarijal Project (1939) built with British support. Nepal now has over 3,800 MW installed capacity, with thousands more in the pipeline. “Our goal is to reach 28,500 MW by 2035, of which **15,000 MW will be set aside for export,” he said.
Long-term electricity trade agreements with India and power exports to Bangladesh have already begun, Ghising noted, adding that Bhutan is part of the emerging regional grid and future links with China are possible. “India and Bangladesh need stable, clean power, which creates a huge opportunity for Nepal. Our hydropower can balance solar-dependent grids, cut emissions, and act as a driver of development,” he said. He also pointed to Nepal’s exploration of green hydrogen as a future energy and industrial resource.
While underlining opportunities, Ghising stressed the need for international support to help Nepal confront the challenges of climate change.
Reflecting on his abrupt removal from the NEA while four months of his tenure remained, he said it symbolized political instability and lack of accountability. “Nepali youth want change and leadership that delivers results. That is why I continue my journey through the Ujyalo Nepal campaign,” he added.
The event also featured tributes to Ghising. Professor Tejendra Pherali of UCL Institute of Education praised his leadership in ending power cuts, calling electricity infrastructure a backbone for education. World Chess Grandmaster Raymond Keene (77) honored Ghising with a certificate and the Tony Buzan Medal.
A short message on behalf of British lawmaker Lord Rami Ranger was delivered by his aide Atta Haq, while Sujan Katuwal of Paanas Helping Hand thanked participants.
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