Alternative Sources of Energy in Nepal
A Project Report
Submitted to
National Examination Board, Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, Nepal
In partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of
Grade-XI in Physics
By:
(Kushal Dahal)
(Sukuna secondary school)
NEB Registration Number: (……..)
Kathmandu, Nepal
(Month)
(2081)
**RECOMMENDATION**
It is certified that Mr Kushal Dahal has carried out the
Project work entitled “Alternative Sources of Energy in
Nepal” under my supervision. I recommend the project in
partial fulfilment for the requirement of degree of Grade-XI
in physics.
Signature:
Name: ………………………...
Supervisor
Physics Teacher
Date: ………………………...
STUDENT'S DECLARATION
I here by declare that the project work entitled (“Alternative
Sources of Energy in Nepal” ) submitted to the Nepal Examination
Board (NEB) is an original piece of work under the supervision of
Mr. Prof / Miss / Mrs. Mani Raj Limbu, faculty member of Sukuna
Secondary School and is submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the award of degree of Grade-XI, Physics. This
project work has not been submitted to any other institution for the
award of any degree till the date.
Signature:
Name of Student: Kushal Dahal
Roll Number: 18
Date:
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Firstly, I would like to express my deep gratitude to my Supervisor
(Mr./Ms. ....................) for his admirable cooperation, inspirable
guidance, caring, continuous support, and valuable suggestions
throughout the process of project work.
Furthermore, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all my
teachers, friends, and college staff who directly or indirectly helped
me in the completion of the study and skill development.
Specially, I would like to express my gratitude to the Head of
Department (Mr. Mani Raj Limbu) for all the support and homely
environment throughout the work.
Additionally, I would like to thank all my family members and all my
relatives for their unconditional support. Lastly, I would like to
thank all the respondents, who provided me with accurate first-
hand data for my research work.
EVALUATION
We certify that we have evaluated this project work
entitled .................. ("Alternative Sources of Energy in Nepal")
submitted by Mr. Aayush Neupane and in our opinion, it fulfils all
the specified criteria in the scope and quality as project work for
the partial fulfilment for the requirement of the degree of Grade-XI
in Physics at NEB, Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
EVALUATION COMMITTEE
__________________ _________________
(Name of supervisor) ( Mani Raj Limbu )
(Supervisor) HOD
Department of physics
(Institution name and address )
Date: ………………………..
CONTENTS
Page No.
Recommendation 2
Student’s Declaration 3
Acknowledgment 4
Evaluation 5
Contents 6
Table of Contents 7
List of Tables
List of Figures
Abstract 7
Abbreviations 7
Introduction 7
Objectives 8
Materials and Methods 8
Results and Discussion 9
Hydropower Energy 9
Solar Energy 10
Wind Energy 10
Biomass and Biogas Energy 11
Comparative Analysis of Alternative Energy Sources
Conclusion
References
Appendix
Study on Alternative Sources of Energy in Nepal
Abbreviations
• AEPC – Alternative Energy Promotion Centre
• NEA – Nepal Electricity Authority
• IEA – International Energy Agency
• MW – Megawatt
• PV – Photovoltaic
• WECS – Water and Energy Commission Secretariat
• RE – Renewable Energy
Abstract
This study examines the potential and challenges of
alternative energy sources in Nepal. Despite significant
renewable resources, including hydropower, solar, wind, and
biomass, development is hindered by high costs,
infrastructure limitations, and policy gaps. Policy reforms,
private sector investment, and technological advancements
are essential for a sustainable energy future. Transitioning to
clean energy will enhance Nepal’s energy security and
environmental sustainability.
1. Introduction
Nepal has historically relied on traditional biomass and
imported fossil fuels for energy. However, with rapid
urbanization and economic growth, there is an urgent need
for sustainable energy alternatives. This project evaluates the
potential of renewable energy sources in Nepal and highlights
the importance of transitioning to clean energy for long-term
environmental and economic benefits.
2. Objectives
To analysed the various alternative energy sources in
Nepal.
To assess the current status and utilization of renewable
energy.
To identify key challenges in the development of renewable
energy.
To suggest solutions for sustainable energy development.
2
3. Materials and Methods
3.1 Data Collection
This study is based on secondary data collected from:
Reports from Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and
Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC).
Research articles and journals related to renewable
energy in Nepal.
Government policies and international studies on
Nepal’s energy sector.
3.2 Methodology
The research involves:
Literature review on Nepal’s renewable energy
potential.
Analysis of hydropower, solar, wind, and biomass
energy sectors
Identification of key challenges and policy
recommendations.
4. Results and Discussion
4.1 Hydropower Energy
Nepal has an estimated hydropower potential of over 75,000
MW. Despite this, only a fraction has been harnessed.
Hydropower remains Nepal’s main energy source, but
challenges such as seasonal water flow variations,
infrastructure limitations, and environmental concerns need
to be addressed.
Source:(Research gate. Retrieved from
[Link]
energy-to-get-major-priority/[Link] ))
4.2 Solar Energy
Nepal has significant potential for solar energy, estimated at
around 47,000 MW. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are
increasingly used in rural areas. However, high initial costs
and limited technical expertise pose obstacles to large-scale
adoption.
Source:(Research gate. Retrieved from
[Link]
4.3 Wind Energy
Wind energy potential is significant in high-altitude regions
like Mustang and Jumla, with an estimated potential of 1,700
MW. However, investment barriers and lack of government
incentives hinder its development.
Source:(Climate Impacts Tracker. Understanding Nepal’s Renewable Energy Landscape.
Retrieved from [Link]
4.4 Biomass and Biogas Energy
Biomass energy, derived from firewood and agricultural
waste, is widely used in rural areas. Nepal has over 300,000
biogas plants, which help reduce dependence on firewood
and promote clean energy. Expanding biogas technology and
improving efficiency could enhance its contribution to Nepal’s
energy mix.
Source: (LEADERS [Link]
from [Link]
4.5 Comparative Analysis of Alternative Energy Sources in Nepal
Biomass &
Criteria Hydropower Solar Energy Wind Energy
Biogas
Large due to
Potential 75,000 MW 47,000 MW 1,700 MW agricultural
waste
Moderate
Moderate Moderate
(requires
Efficiency High (depends on (site-
efficient
sunlight) dependent)
systems)
Moderate
High initial
High initial Expensive (biogas
Cost cost but low
investment infrastructure plants are
maintenance
affordable)
Can disrupt Minimal, but Low, but can Helps reduce
Environmental
river land use is a affect local deforestation
Impact
ecosystems concern wildlife and waste
Seasonal water
High setup Lack of Requires
flow,
Challenges cost, low investment, proper waste
infrastructure
awareness policy gaps management
issues
Best suited Effective for
Good for
due to Useful in high- rural
Suitability for rural
abundant altitude households
Nepal electrificatio
water regions and
n
resources agriculture
4.6 Challenges in Alternative Energy Development
High Initial Costs: Renewable energy projects require
significant investment.
Infrastructure Limitations: Weak grid connectivity and
lack of storage facilities hinder efficient energy use.
Policy and Regulation Gaps: Weak enforcement of
policies slows down renewable energy growth.
Technical Challenges: Dependence on imported
technology increases costs and limits local expertise.
4.7 Future Prospects and Recommendations
To promote alternative energy sources, Nepal should:
Encourage private sector investment in renewable
energy projects.
Strengthen government policies and incentives for
clean energy.
Expand research and development in energy storage
and grid integration.
Increase public awareness about the benefits of
renewable energy
5. Conclusion
Nepal’s abundant natural resources provide a strong
foundation for renewable energy development. While
hydropower dominates, diversifying into solar, wind, and
biomass energy is crucial for long-term sustainability.
Addressing financial, technical, and policy challenges will help
Nepal transition to a cleaner and more reliable energy future.
6. References
Climate Impacts Tracker. (2023). Renewable Energy in
Nepal: Building A Sustainable Future.
International Energy Agency (IEA). (2023). Nepal -
Countries & Regions.
WECS. (2024). Energy Sector Synopsis Report 2024.
ResearchGate. (2023). Renewable Energy in Nepal: Current
State and Future Outlook.
Reuters. (2024). Nepal, Bhutan seek Indian investment for
hydro power projects.
