The Nepal Renewable Energy Programme (NREP) hosted a Learning Sharing Programme in Kathmandu, marking a significant milestone as the programme nears its completion on March 31, 2025.

Bringing together government officials, development partners, private sector stakeholders, financial institutions, and renewable energy experts, the event served as a platform to reflect on NREP’s achievements, share valuable lessons, and discuss the future of Nepal’s clean energy transition.

A Collaborative Effort for a Greener Nepal

NREP, a Government of Nepal programme, is implemented by the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) and a consortium led by DAI Global, and including Winrock International.

A core component of NREP, the Sustainable Energy Challenge Fund (SECF) is a viability gap funding mechanism embedded within the Central Renewable Energy Fund (CREF)—a financial mechanism of AEPC. SECF was established and operationalized with funding support from the British Embassy, Kathmandu (BEK) and technical assistance from NREP to support clean energy innovations and private sector investments.

Key Impact of NREP

✅ Catalyzing Investment – More than £20 million in private investment has been mobilized.
✅ Transformed Energy Delivery – Over 22 MWp of solar rooftop installations, more than 45,000 families have transitioned to electric cooking technology, and over 50 EV charging stations have been set up.
✅ Fostered Innovation – NREP has enabled an environment for the private sector to introduce innovative technologies and business models.
✅ Strengthened Partnerships – NREP has leveraged partnerships with the World Bank and GIZ/EU to secure additional funding for SECF project financing. It has also facilitated:

• Partnerships between microfinance institutions and renewable energy suppliers for electric cookstoves and water pumps.
• Partnerships between companies and banks for Distributed Sustainable Energy (DSE) system installations.

  

Speaking at the event, Hon. Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Mr. Dipak Khadka, highlighted Nepal’s commitment to strengthening its energy sector: “The Sustainable Energy Challenge Fund can play a crucial role in making Nepal’s energy system more reliable, sustainable, and enhance its quality.

British Ambassador to Nepal, H.E. Rob Fenn, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Nepal’s clean energy future: “The UK is proud to support Nepal’s transition to clean, sustainable energy. This journey is not just about economic growth but also about empowering communities and ensuring long-term energy security.”
NREP Team Leader, Mr. Suman Basnet, highlighted the programme’s impact and its role in driving private sector investment and financial mechanisms like Viability Gap Funding to accelerate renewable energy adoption.

The event featured:
✅ Experience-sharing sessions from beneficiaries of electric cooking technology, solar irrigation pumps, and microfinance institutions.
✅ Private sector insights on scaling up clean energy solutions.
✅ A panel discussion on ensuring the long-term sustainability of Nepal’s renewable energy sector.

Key Takeaways from the Event

• Recognition of NREP’s Contribution – NREP’s role in establishing and operationalizing the Sustainable Energy Challenge Fund (SECF) has been widely acknowledged and appreciated. SECF as an Innovative Financial Tool – SECF is recognized as a game-changing financial mechanism that effectively supports the expansion of Distributed Sustainable Energy in Nepal.
• International Support – Collaboration and funding from International Development Partners are crucial for the Government of Nepal to fully institutionalize and sustain SECF as a long-term financing mechanism.
• Commitment to SECF’s Future – Both the government and private sector have shown strong enthusiasm and commitment toward ensuring the continuation of SECF, recognizing its impact on Nepal’s renewable energy sector.

Recognizing Contributions to Nepal’s Clean Energy Future

The programme concluded with the recognition of SECF awardees and appreciation for the contributions of AEPC, BEK, provincial and local governments, and NREP staff. As Nepal moves towards a low-carbon, sustainable future, this event reinforced the importance of continued collaboration among the government, private sector, and development partners to ensure clean energy access and maximize its benefits.

Together, we power Nepal’s renewable energy transition! ⚡