The Upper Kabeli Hydropower Project, a 28.1-megawatt run-of-river initiative in Taplejung District, Nepal, has reached key construction milestones. The project team recently announced the completion of the first concrete pours at the headworks and powerhouse, marking the start of crucial construction phases. Additionally, 1,950 meters of the planned 5.6-kilometer headrace tunnel have been excavated since Chaitra 2080 (March-April 2024).
The project is designed to generate 169.74 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually. It will use a design discharge of 17.29 cubic meters per second and a net head of 183.05 meters. Located in Sinam, Shreejangha Rural Municipality, the project diverts water from the Kabeli River at Pauta through a 48-meter concrete weir and sediment exclusion systems. The water will then flow through a 4.995-kilometer headrace tunnel and a 1.054-kilometer steel penstock pipe to the powerhouse, which will house two horizontal Francis turbine units.
The electricity generated will be transmitted to the Nepal Electricity Authority’s (NEA) Amarpur substation via a 15-kilometer single-circuit 132 kV transmission line. The project has a 30-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with NEA, with an expected commercial operation date of January 1, 2027.
Developed by Peace Energy Company Pvt. Ltd. (PECL) at an estimated cost of NPR 5.64 billion, the project covers the entire lifecycle of hydropower development. This includes site identification, feasibility studies, design, construction, and operation. PECL also engages in policy advocacy, stakeholder partnerships, and community outreach to promote awareness about hydropower and renewable energy technologies.
Once operational, the Upper Kabeli Hydropower Project is expected to significantly boost Nepal’s renewable energy sector. It will support the country’s sustainable development goals, reduce reliance on imported energy, and provide reliable electricity to the region. The project is also anticipated to drive economic growth and enhance energy security in Nepal.
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