Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) with support from Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been working to install wind-solar mini grid power plants in 10 different locations across the country. For the purpose, ADB is providing a grant of $3 million under its South Asia Sub-regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) Power System Expansion Project.

Two out of the 10 hybrid type projects constructed in Hariharpur-1, Sindhuli and Miklajung Rural Municipality-1, Morang have already come into operation. These have the capacity to produce peak power output of 35 and 30 kilowatt (kw) respectively.

According to AEPC, the largest mini grid sub-project to be installed in Chaukune Rural Municipality-8, Surkhet will have a maximum output capacity of 100 kw, the largest in its type. As per the government body, it has carried out the detailed feasibility study of the project.  

AEPC Executive Director Ram Prasad Dhital said two such projects in Pachthar district is likely to operate soon. According to him, they have already awarded the contract for its 25 kw mini grid sub-project in Tungbewa Rural Municipality-4 while AEPC has started to call tenders for the project of 70 kw capacity to be installed in Miklajung Rural Municipality-2 of the district.

Likewise, AEPC has also conducted the detailed feasibility study of another five mini grid projects. Of these, a 75 kw power plant will be installed in Maunyal Rural Municipality-6, Kailali, 60 kw mini grid in Mane Bhanjyang-6, Okhaldhunga, 50 kw plant in Ram Prasad Rai Rural Municipality-2, Bhojpur, 30 kw mini grid in Aamchok Rural Municipality-2, Bhojpur and 35 kw mini grid power plant in Purchaudi Rural Municipality-8, Baitadi.

Dhital said the mini grid power supply will be equipped with an advanced system. “The system will help synchronise the produced energy to the national grid provided the main gridlines are developed in these areas,” he added.

According to ADB, it has targeted to construct 500 kw of mini grid power distribution system to benefit the people living in the rural areas. ADB Country Director Mukhtor Khamudkhanov said multilateral lending institution is looking to improve the livelihood of rural peopole via the installation of the mini grid projects.

“Such power projects in remote locations where the gridline system is not present could help the people engage in production and commercial activities to ensure an increase in their income level,” Khamudkhanov said.

The government, with support from ADB, launched its first mini grid wind-solar system in Dhaubadi in Nawalparasi district six years ago. ADB funded $3.8 million for the pilot project that has capacity to supply 43.6 units of electricity daily. It has been providing electricity to 46 households to the people residing in the area.