Is smart grid a solution to energy issues in Nepal?

Evaluating the current energy scenario in Nepal, this article presents the smart grid as a solution to existing and future energy issues and the associated challenges during its implementation, urging concerned authorities to launch initiatives to promote it.

How much electricity does Nepal use per capita?

Nepal is one of those developing nations which is currently underutilizing its potential RESs: with a per capita electricity consumption of 267 kilowatt hours (kWh) in 2020 (Himalayan News Service 2020 ).

Does Nepal have EV technology?

Nepal has experience of running EV technology like trolleybuses and electric three-wheelers named “Safa Tempos” inside the KaV since the 1970s and 1990s, respectively. The trolley bus operation was terminated in 2011; however, Safa Tempos are still providing their service inside the KaV (GoN 2018b ).

What are the rules & regulations for smart grids in Nepal?

In addition, there are no well-defined rules or guidelines in Nepal to govern smart grid efforts. The majority of present legal and regulatory frameworks were created to address existing networks and utilities. As a result, current legislative and regulatory frameworks will need to be amended to facilitate the deployment of smart grids.

Why does Nepal need a new power grid?

To meet such high demand, the existing power grid of Nepal needs sheer modernization to ensure better management of produced energy, reducing losses to acceptable limits, utilization of domestic resources curtailing import, and a flexible distribution system. Electricity demand at different scenarios with predicted ones (Data Source: (WECS 2017 ))

Does Nepal have a power transmission network?

Figure 5 presents Nepal’s power transmission network map with an existing and proposed network, reflecting the inhomogeneity of transmission networks distributed across the country. Major hydropower stations, the primary sources of electricity, lie in the Himalayan region due to abundant perennial rivers.