Nepal expands power transmission network to 6,507 circuit kilometers

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s power transmission network has grown significantly, with the total length now reaching 6,507 circuit kilometers, according to the latest figures from the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). This network is crucial for transporting electricity generated from various energy sources, such as hydropower and solar, to consumers across the country.

The NEA’s report for the fiscal year 2080/81 highlights the extensive development in power transmission infrastructure, including high-voltage lines of 400 kV, 220 kV, 132 kV, and 66 kV. Among these, the 132 kV lines cover the largest portion, spanning 4,136 circuit kilometers, while the 66 kV lines are the shortest at 514 circuit kilometers. The 400 kV lines, vital for long-distance transmission, now extend 644 circuit kilometers.

In just eight years, the length of the transmission network has more than doubled, growing from 2,911 circuit kilometers in the fiscal year 2072/73 to its current extent. This expansion is part of Nepal’s broader efforts to strengthen its electricity grid, ensuring reliable and efficient power distribution throughout the country.

The capacity of the grid substations has also seen a substantial increase, now standing at 13,050 MVA, a significant rise from the 2,223 MVA recorded in 2072/73. These substations, operating at various voltage levels, are essential for managing and distributing the electricity generated by the country’s power plants.

The NEA has made substantial investments in both transmission lines and substations, utilizing its resources and concessional loans from development partners. Despite challenges such as land acquisition issues, environmental concerns, and logistical difficulties in remote areas, the NEA has made remarkable progress in expanding the transmission network.

NEA’s Executive Director, Kulman Ghising, noted that the past eight years have seen a “qualitative leap” in the construction of transmission lines. “Despite facing challenges like local opposition, land acquisition hurdles, and the need for environmental approvals, we have achieved significant progress in building the transmission network. We have completed and operationalized several 400 kV, 220 kV, and 132 kV transmission lines during this period,” said Ghising.

The development of key transmission lines, such as the 400 kV line from Butwal to Attariya and the Southern Corridor transmission line, has been supported by investments from various donor agencies. These lines are critical for ensuring that Nepal’s major load centers can meet the country’s growing electricity demand.

Looking ahead, Nepal is also focusing on enhancing its electricity trade with neighboring countries. The new 400 kV Butwal-Gorakhpur interconnection, currently under construction, will enable the transfer of up to 2,500 MW of electricity between Nepal and India. Additionally, the capacity for electricity exchange between Nepal and India has already increased from 350 MW eight years ago to around 2,000 MW today.

Further transmission line projects are in the pipeline, including the 400 kV Inaruwa-Purnia and Lamki-Bareilly lines, which are expected to strengthen cross-border electricity trade. Nepal is also exploring the possibility of expanding electricity trade with Bangladesh, with plans to build a 400 kV line from Inaruwa to Anarmani.

By 2035, Nepal aims to expand its transmission network to facilitate the export of up to 20,000 MW of electricity. Efforts are also underway to establish a power trade link with China, with the Chilime-Kerung transmission line project moving forward.

In addition to transmission line development, Nepal is also investing in distribution networks to ensure reliable and safe electricity supply to consumers. The length of distribution lines has now reached 209,000 circuit kilometers, a significant increase from 121,000 circuit kilometers in 2072/73. The electrification rate has also improved, with 99% of the population now having access to electricity, compared to 58% eight years ago.

The NEA’s efforts to improve the distribution network include increasing the capacity of distribution substations to 2,500 MVA, up from 640 MVA eight years ago. The number of substations has also grown from 80 to 196 during the same period.

As Nepal continues to expand its power infrastructure, the country is positioning itself as a key player in regional electricity trade while ensuring that its citizens have access to reliable and quality electricity.