SOLUKHUMBU: The Lower Solukhola Hydropower project is nearing completion, with 95 percent of the physical work already finished.
The 82-megawatt capacity project, located in Tingla, Solukhumbu, is being developed by Lower Solu Hydropower Company.
Significant milestones such as the construction of the powerhouse, tunnel, and the installation of turbines and generators have been completed.
Company manager Dharmendra Gotame mentioned that the breakthrough of the penstock tunnel is expected soon, and commercial power generation is slated to begin in July. The transmission line is also 80 percent complete.
Launched in September 2016, the project has seen an investment of Rs 16 billion, provided as a loan by the European Bank (International Funding Agency), including FMO. The project is expected to be completed by September 2025.
This is a reservoir-based project, with the reservoir located in the Salme area of Solukhumbu.
Water is directed through a tunnel to the powerhouse in Bhadaure, Tingla, about 6 km away. Due to the geographical challenges and the long tunnel, the project’s estimated cost has increased.
The project employs 700 workers, including local residents. Once completed, the hydropower project will supply 23MW of power to the national transmission line in the winter and 82MW during the rainy season.
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