Government Formulating Strategy to Increase Electricity Consumption - Energy Minister
13 Apr 2026
A discussion was held between the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) and the Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Hon’ble Biraj Bhakta Shrestha.
A CNI delegation led by President Mr. Birendra Raj Pandey met the Minister to extend congratulations and best wishes, while also engaging in discussions on the development of the energy sector.
During the meeting, President Pandey emphasized the need to adopt policies that promote increased electricity consumption. He suggested the implementation of policies allowing industries to generate electricity for their own use and transmit it through wheeling charges, as well as permitting the private sector to engage in domestic and international electricity trade. He further urged the government to immediately conclude Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with all projects that have already completed surveys and received government approvals but are still awaiting agreements.
He also called for policies to increase domestic electricity consumption and to provide incentives for industries transitioning from fossil fuel-based systems to electric equipment. In addition, he stressed the importance of focusing on alternative energy sources.
On the occasion, Minister Shrestha expressed the government’s commitment to moving forward in collaboration with the private sector for the overall development of the energy sector. He stated that the government is actively working on strategies to increase domestic electricity consumption alongside electricity exports.
He further shared that priority is being given to hydropower reservoir projects, renewable energy development, and electricity consumption expansion strategies. The Minister also expressed expectation for clear and actionable suggestions from the private sector on how the energy sector can contribute more significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The discussion was attended by CNI Vice President Mr. Gokul Bhandari, office bearer Ms. Vidushi Rana, President of CNI Young Entrepreneurs Forum Mr. Manish Shrestha, Director General Dr. Ghanashyam Ojha, Director Himal Poudel among others.