Middle Bhotekoshi Hydropower Project Nears Grid Connection After Years of Setbacks

The 102-megawatt Middle Bhotekoshi Hydropower Project, located in Sindhupalchok, is now ready to begin commercial electricity generation. Developed under the leadership of a subsidiary of the Nepal Electricity Authority using domestic resources and expertise, the project will soon be connected to the national grid through the New Khimti 400 kV substation and the Dhalkebar transmission line. Although physical construction concluded months ago, power generation was delayed due to setbacks in completing the required transmission infrastructure.

The project faced a series of significant obstacles throughout its development, including major natural disasters such as the 2014 Jure landslide, the 2015 earthquake, multiple floods in the Bhotekoshi River, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional delays stemmed from the 2015 border blockade and the underperformance of the civil and hydromechanical contractor. Despite these challenges, final inspections have been conducted, and necessary safety measures—including tunnel leakage testing and flood protection infrastructure—are being implemented to ensure long-term operational resilience.

With an expected annual production of 542.2 million kilowatt-hours, the project is anticipated to generate revenue of approximately Rs. 2.8 billion through electricity sales to NEA at seasonal rates. Originally estimated at Rs. 12.28 billion, the project’s cost has now reached Rs. 15.03 billion. Backed by over 1,075,000 public investors, the project marks a significant milestone in Nepal’s hydropower development and its transition toward energy self-sufficiency.