Backed by an investment of Rs 62.5 million, the Kalikot Solar Power Project in Nepal is nearing completion. Located in the Kalikot district, the project will provide 315 kW of electricity, significantly boosting the local energy supply. This initiative is a key part of Nepal’s broader effort to enhance its renewable energy infrastructure and reduce reliance on non-renewable sources.
Kalikot Solar Project Overview
With 95% of its construction work finished, the Kalikot Solar Power Project is now in its final stages. The initiative is primarily funded by the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC), reflecting Nepal’s strong commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure.
The solar power plant is equipped with 630 solar panels, each with a 500-watt capacity. These panels are arranged in three rows that span a total length of 150 meters.
Significance of the Kalikot Solar Project
The Kalikot Solar Power Project is expected to have a significant impact on the local community and the wider region. Once operational, it will provide a reliable source of electricity to the people of Kalikot, addressing the area’s longstanding load-shedding issues. This project is part of a larger trend in Nepal, where solar energy is increasingly being harnessed to meet the country’s growing energy demands.
This initiative is one of several solar power projects being developed across Nepal. Beyond the Kalikot project, there are plans for solar facilities in other districts, including Bajura, Rukum, and Bajhang. These projects align with Nepal’s goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix. You can read more about the global surge in solar PV investment and its challenges here.
Benefits of the Kalikot Solar Project
The Kalikot Solar Power Project is poised to bring several key benefits to the local community. By providing a stable and reliable source of electricity, it will reduce the need for load shedding, a major advantage for local businesses, households, and public services like schools and hospitals.
Beyond providing reliable electricity, the project will contribute to the area’s overall development. It is expected to create jobs during construction and provide ongoing employment once operational. Moreover, the project will help reduce the region’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources, supporting Nepal’s efforts to combat climate change.
Future Prospects for the Kalikot Solar Project in Nepal
The success of the Kalikot Solar Power Project could pave the way for more investment in solar energy across Nepal. The country’s abundant sunlight makes it an ideal location for these projects, and the government is keen to capitalize on this potential. Besides the Kalikot project, several other solar power initiatives are in the pipeline, including the 8.5 MW Khumbu Decentralised Solar Power Plant.
The Khumbu project, currently in the bidding phase, is expected to be operational by 2026. This project, along with the Kalikot initiative, highlights Nepal’s broader push to increase the share of renewable energy in its power grid. The government has set an ambitious target of meeting 15% of the country’s energy needs with renewable sources by 2030.
The Kalikot Solar Power Project marks a significant step forward for Nepal’s renewable energy sector. With 95% of construction complete, the plant is on track to provide 315 kW of electricity to the people of Kalikot, underscoring the country’s commitment to a more sustainable energy future. As Nepal continues to invest in solar power, projects like this one will play a crucial role in that transition. For more insights on international solar energy projects, check out the Lesotho Solar Power Station.
