KATHMANDU: A lively exchange took place between Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Deepak Khadka and former Energy Minister Janardan Sharma during the 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Independent Power Producers’ Association of Nepal (IPPAN), highlighting deepening tensions over the government’s energy policy and performance.
Addressing the gathering, Sharma sharply criticized the government for its sluggishness in signing power purchase agreements (PPAs) and failing to curb the trend of license hoarding. He questioned the government’s intent and accused it of lacking urgency in driving the energy sector forward.
At one point, Sharma even urged Minister Khadka from the stage to stop using his mobile phone and listen carefully. In response, when his turn to speak came, Minister Khadka did not hold back.
“What was accomplished in the 12 years when the Maoists led the Energy Ministry?” Khadka asked, directing his remarks squarely at Sharma. “Instead of playing politics, saying one thing in power and another in opposition, everyone must take ownership of national development.”
Defending the government’s current efforts, Minister Khadka said that stalled projects from the past are now moving forward, and the government is working with determination to set the energy sector on a path of sustainable growth.
He outlined the government’s plan to produce 28,500 megawatts of electricity in the next 10 years, stating that efforts are already underway under this roadmap. Citing Prime Minister KP Oli’s directive, Khadka noted that PPAs have been prioritized in areas where transmission lines are already in place.
He added that the government is holding continuous discussions with the Ministry of Forests to resolve obstacles that arise during project implementation, especially regarding land and environmental clearances.
Highlighting the role of the private sector, Minister Khadka said the government is committed to creating a secure investment environment and considers private producers as key partners in Nepal’s energy future.
He stressed the need to mobilize capital and boost economic activity in the energy sector, acknowledging the importance of small and medium hydropower projects. He also mentioned that the government is actively working to promote mixed energy models, including solar, to diversify Nepal’s energy portfolio.
Khadka concluded by saying that the government will revise outdated laws as needed to accelerate energy development and create lasting momentum in the sector.
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