The 102-megawatt Middle Bhotekoshi Hydropower Project, located in Sindhupalchok, is now set to begin commercial electricity generation and connect to Nepal’s national power grid. Developed by Chilime Hydropower Company—a subsidiary of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)—the project is a milestone in utilizing domestic investment and technical expertise in large-scale energy development.
Although construction was completed months ago, the project faced delays in power generation due to the incomplete transmission infrastructure. Now, with the New Khimti 400 kV substation and the Dhalkebar transmission line in place, the electricity generated will finally be integrated into the national grid.
NEA Managing Director Hitendra Dev Shakya recently inspected the project site, where he emphasized flood preparedness, safety testing, and protective infrastructure. He directed officials to conduct leakage tests on the 7.2 km tunnel and build sliding barricades to protect the powerhouse and surrounding areas from potential flood damage.
The project encountered several setbacks over the years, including natural disasters such as the 2014 Jure landslide, the 2015 earthquake, and floods in 2016 and 2020. Additionally, the 2015 border blockade and the COVID-19 pandemic further delayed progress. Contractor issues, particularly with Guangxi Hydroelectric Construction Company of China, also contributed to construction challenges, while Andritz Hydro handled the electromechanical works.
Originally estimated at Rs 12.28 billion (excluding interest during construction), the project’s cost has since risen to Rs 15.03 billion. Despite this, the project boasts over 1,075,000 shareholders after issuing public shares.
Middle Bhotekoshi is expected to generate approximately 542.2 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The NEA will buy this electricity at Rs 8.40 per unit in the dry season and Rs 4.80 in the wet season, bringing in an estimated annual revenue of Rs 2.8 billion for the company. This marks a significant contribution to Nepal’s renewable energy capacity and its path toward energy self-sufficiency.
