Nepal to Build Power Transmission Line to China: Minister Khadka

Nepal’s Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, announced that the country is preparing to construct a 220 kV cross-border transmission line connecting Rasuwagadhi–Chilime–Jilong–Kerung with China.

He shared the development during the fifth ministerial meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on energy, currently being held in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province of China.

Minister Khadka highlighted Nepal’s recent achievements in the energy sector, including electricity trade with India and Bangladesh, and future connectivity with China.

“Nepal has signed electricity export agreements with India and Bangladesh,” he said. “Now, preparations are underway to build the Rasuwagadhi–Chilime–Jilong–Kerung 220 kV transmission line with China.”

Nepal already operates several transmission lines with India, including 132 kV and lower capacity lines, and the 400 kV Dhalkebar–Muzaffarpur line. He also noted the landmark deal enabling Nepal to export electricity to Bangladesh via India.

Power as a Fundamental Need

Minister Khadka emphasized energy security as a basic necessity of modern life and called for regional cooperation, investment, and innovative policies.

“Energy is not optional anymore—it’s as essential as oxygen,” he remarked.

He shared that in the last five years, Nepal has doubled its electricity production, with around 99% of its population now having access to power. Notably, more than 95% of Nepal’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources.

Vision for 2035 and Beyond

He pointed out that regional policy coordination, investment in transmission infrastructure, transparent pricing, and green financing systems are essential to secure an inclusive and sustainable future in the energy sector.

Nepal aims to generate 28,500 MW of electricity by 2035, of which 15,000 MW will be exported. The government also aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045 and develop clean energy access for all, including electrified transport and industrial systems.

Regional Cooperation and Innovation

Addressing a session titled “Integrated Innovation for Energy Future”, Minister Khadka stressed the importance of grid connectivity, energy innovation, and collaboration among SCO member nations.

He further underlined the need for a regional energy trade framework considering consumer markets and available resources, especially within the SCO bloc.

Nepal, as a dialogue partner in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, is committed to strengthening energy cooperation and leading mutual development in the energy sector, he affirmed.

Energy Cooperation at SCO

The SCO energy ministers’ meeting was jointly hosted by China’s National Energy Administration and the Zhejiang Provincial Government under the theme “Innovation and Integration for a Vibrant Future”.

Heads of energy departments from SCO member states, related officials, and ambassadors participated in the event. They shared experiences on energy transformation and sustainable growth.

According to Chinese media, 25 projects were signed during the summit, making it the highest-level energy-focused event within this year’s SCO Summit framework.