SASEC Power System Expansion Project

Nepal has abundant hydropower potential but faces chronic power shortages and low grid access to electricity. This loan will help Nepal address its urgent power system needs by facilitating expansion of domestic power transmission capacity, improving medium and long-term power exchange with India, augmenting and expanding distribution networks, and increasing mini-grid based renewable energy systems in rural areas. This project is part of the SASEC Power Transmission Master Plan.

PROJECT DETAILS

Commitment Date

Funding Type

Country

Sector

Status

Total Cost

5 Aug 2014

Loan/Grant

Nepal

Energy

Ongoing

$440 million

KEY OUTPUTS

236.5 km transmission lines, grid substations, and grid service substations
constructed

1,680 km of distribution lines, and substations constructed

Mini hydro-electric power plants and mini-grid based solar or solar/wind hybrid systems installed

FINANCING

$180 million (Asian Development Fund)

$11.2 million (ADB Strategic Climate Fund)

$68.8 million (Government of Nepal)

$60 million (Government of Norway)

$120 million (European Investment Bank)