Background
Nepal has made notable advancements in developing its power infrastructure, with the expansion of transmission lines playing a key role in this progress. These transmission lines are vital for efficiently distributing electricity from remote hydroelectric plants to urban and rural areas across the country. Historically, the absence of a robust transmission network has limited the full utilization of Nepal’s vast hydro resources, hindered economic growth, and impacted the quality of life for its citizens. Consequently, recent efforts have been directed toward addressing these challenges by enhancing the capacity and reliability of the national grid.
Historical development of transmission lines in Nepal
Nepal’s electrification journey began with the commissioning of the Pharping Hydroelectric Plant in 1911. However, the transmission infrastructure development only gained momentum in the mid-20th century. The government’s planned approach, initiated in 1956, systematically shaped the growth of the power sector and transmission network.
The push for expansion through periodic plans
Nepal’s electricity development over successive Five/Three-Year Plans reflects a steady yet challenging journey of growth and modernization. The First Plan (1956–1961) laid the groundwork with modest achievements, adding 970 kW diesel capacity. The Second Plan (1962–1965) initiated transmission line development, notably the Kathmandu-Birgunj 66 KV line, and began hydropower projects like Panauti (2,400 KW). The Third Plan (1965–1970) saw substantial progress, including surveys for major projects like Marshyangdi and Karnali, with power supply increasing by 19,960 kW. In the Fourth Plan (1970–1975), efforts focused on integrating electricity into economic development, though transmission expansion lagged, with a generation capacity of 49,634 KW.
The Fifth Plan (1975–1980) aimed to link new generation projects to demand centers, initiating significant projects like Kulekhani-I (60,000 KW), but faced challenges in transmission infrastructure. The Sixth Plan (1980–1985) introduced an integrated transmission system, constructing 1,324 km of lines and achieving a generation capacity of 129,600 KW. The Seventh Plan (1985–1990) doubled capacity to 258,500 kW with the commissioning of Marsyangdi (69,000 kW) and Kulekhani-II (32,000 KW), supporting rural and industrial electrification. The Eighth Plan (1992–1997) liberalized the hydropower sector but added only 13,000 KW, highlighting slow infrastructure expansion.
The Ninth Plan (1997–2002) marked a turning point with investments in large projects like Kaligandaki-A (144,000 KW) and Khimti (60,000 kW), alongside significant transmission network growth. The Tenth Plan (2002–2007) focused on energy self-sufficiency and export potential, reaching an installed capacity of 619,000 KW and emphasizing rural electrification through small and micro-hydro projects. This timeline underscores a gradual transformation in Nepal’s hydropower and electricity transmission infrastructure to meet growing energy demands. The Eleventh to Fourteenth Plans (2007-2019) marked significant progress in Nepal’s transmission line development. During the Eleventh Plan (2007–2010), projects like the Hetauda-Dhalkebar-Duhabi 220 KV and Marsyangdi Corridor transmission lines were advanced, enhancing east-west connectivity. The Twelfth Plan (2010–2013) focused on reducing transmission losses and strengthening cross-border trade, initiating the Butwal-Gorakhpur 400 kV and Kabeli Corridor projects. In the Thirteenth Plan (2013–2016), Nepal established itself as an electricity surplus country by completing the Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur 400 KV cross-border line and further grid modernization. The Fourteenth Plan (2016–2019) saw significant progress in high-capacity lines like the Hetauda-Bharatpur-Bardghat 220 KV and Tamakoshi-Kathmandu transmission lines, supporting the government’s 10,000 MW electricity production target. These plans collectively strengthened Nepal’s national grid, bolstered cross-border energy trade, and laid the foundation for future energy sector growth.
Transmission lines play a critical role in bridging the gap between Nepal’s remote hydropower resources and demand centers in the plains and urban areas. They ensure energy accessibility, minimize losses, and support rural development by powering industries and improving quality of life.
The Fifteenth Five-Year Plan transformed Nepal’s energy sector, focusing on universal electricity access and establishing the country as a regional energy hub. Key achievements included the Tamakoshi-Kathmandu 220 KV line, enhanced cross-border energy trade with India, and expanded transmission corridors to improve grid reliability. Rural electrification reached over 95% of households, while private sector participation grew with independent power producers (IPPs).
The Sixteenth Five-Year Plan (2024/25–2028/29) emphasizes sustainable development, targeting 11,800 MW of power generation capacity to boost electricity exports worth Rs 41 billion annually and reduce the trade deficit by 4%. It aims for universal electricity access, connecting 96.7% of the population to the grid, with 1.37% relying on off-grid solutions, and increasing per capita consumption to 700 KWh. Beyond energy, the plan focuses on economic growth, employment, infrastructure, urbanization, gender empowerment, and poverty reduction. Strengthened transmission networks and renewable energy initiatives are central to achieving societal equity, economic prosperity, and regional energy trade leadership.
Major milestones
Several significant milestones have shaped the development of Nepal’s transmission network:
1980s: The construction of the East-West Transmission Line, which improved the distribution of electricity across the country.
1990s: The launch of the Nepal-India Electric Power Trade Agreement which facilitated cross-border power exchange and cooperation in energy infrastructure development.
2000s: The introduction of the modern Load Dispatch Center in Syuchatar, Kathmandu, which centralized the management and monitoring of the national grid, enhancing its efficiency and reliability.
2010-2024: Completion of the first three major 400 KV substations in Hetauda, Dhalkebar, and Inaruwa, bolstering transmission capacity across the country. The Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur 400 KV cross-border transmission line has been instrumental in enabling electricity trade between Nepal and India, while the Dhalkebar-Inaruwa 400 kV transmission line strengthens the national grid. The completion of the Raxaul-Parwanipur 132 KV Second Circuit Transmission Line has further augmented power exchange capabilities with India. Additionally, the Kaligandaki Corridor 220 KV transmission line, Kabeli Corridor transmission line, Koshi Corridor transmission line, and the development of the Chilime-Trishuli 220 KV transmission line along with their associated substations have enhanced power evacuation from various parts of Nepal.
Recent initiatives
Nepal has significantly advanced its electricity sector in the past eight years, with its transmission network growing from 2,911 to 6,500 circuit kilometers. Electrification has reached 99% of households, a major increase from 58%, supported by substantial investments in high-capacity substations and transmission lines.
Cross-border trade capacity with India has improved to 2,000 MW, enabling greater regional energy cooperation. Recently, Nepal began exporting 40 MW of electricity to Bangladesh via Indian transmission infrastructure, marking its first energy trade with a third country. This agreement, facilitated by a trilateral deal among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh, is expected to generate Rs 330 million annually for Nepal. The electricity is transmitted through the Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur cross-border line, with Bangladesh paying India for transmission costs. This collaboration is seen as a landmark in regional energy cooperation.
Technically, the rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and the need for high-capacity lines to support growing hydropower generation complicate construction, maintenance, and system efficiency.
Nepal has recently completed the 220KV Chilime-Trishuli transmission line, a crucial step towards electricity trade with China. Following this, the NEA has initiated implementing the Chilime-Kerung international transmission line, further facilitating power trade and enhancing regional connectivity and cooperation.
Significance of transmission lines
Transmission lines are a cornerstone of Nepal’s energy infrastructure, enabling the effective utilization of its abundant hydropower resources. They play a crucial role not only in energy distribution but also in driving economic growth, reducing energy imports, and fostering regional cooperation. Transmission lines play a critical role in bridging the gap between Nepal’s remote hydropower resources and demand centers in the plains and urban areas. They ensure energy accessibility, minimize losses, and support rural development by powering industries and improving quality of life. Expanded transmission infrastructure boosts industrial productivity, contributes to GDP growth, and reduces reliance on imported energy by maximizing hydropower utilization, enhancing energy security, and enabling clean energy distribution. Nepal’s cross-border projects with India and emerging trade with China position it as a regional energy player, promoting economic integration and sustainability. Additionally, transmission lines catalyze socio-economic transformation by improving public services, fostering balanced regional development, and attracting foreign investment. This infrastructure is vital for Nepal’s journey toward becoming a regional energy hub and achieving sustainable economic growth.
Challenges
Nepal faces several challenges in the development of its transmission line infrastructure, including technical, financial, environmental, and institutional obstacles. Technically, the rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and the need for high-capacity lines to support growing hydropower generation complicate construction, maintenance, and system efficiency. Financially, high initial costs, limited government budgets, and challenges in attracting private investment hinder project progress. Socially, community opposition, land acquisition issues, and environmental concerns often delay or obstruct projects. Institutionally, gaps in policy, weak coordination among government agencies, slow approval processes, and challenges in negotiating cross-border agreements with India and China contribute to inefficiencies and project delays. These challenges collectively impede Nepal’s expansion and modernization of its transmission network.
Conclusion
In conclusion, developing Nepal’s transmission infrastructure is vital for its energy security and economic growth. While the country has made significant progress in expanding its transmission network, challenges such as technical difficulties, financial constraints, social opposition, and institutional inefficiencies remain. Addressing these obstacles requires comprehensive solutions, including strong government leadership, streamlined regulatory processes, and enhanced community engagement. Overcoming these challenges is essential for meeting the growing electricity demand, improving regional energy trade, and ultimately transforming Nepal into a regional energy hub that fosters economic stability, sustainability, and improved quality of life for its citizens.
( Mr. Dahal is an Electrical Engineer of Nepal Electricity Authority)
