Nepal Energy Investors Forum

Kathmandu, Nepal : 13 October 2011 - 14 October 2011

Background

The Government of Nepal and Asian Development Bank are jointly organizing an energy investors forum in Kathmandu. This will be a multi-stakeholder forum for promoting private sector investment in sustainable hydropower development in Nepal.

Nepal has the second highest hydropower generation potential in the world, the majority of which remains untapped. There is also a huge demand for electricity in the domestic market as well as in the neighboring countries. While power shortage constitutes a key infrastructure constraint in Nepal, critically limiting economic growth and poverty reduction, there is also enormous opportunity to export power to its neighbors to fill their energy gaps. To harness its abundant hydropower potential and fuel economic growth, Nepal could substantially and potentially increase both public and private sector investment in the hydropower sector.

The Forum will highlight recent policy initiatives introduced by the Government of Nepal to create a competitive, attractive and business-friendly environment for private sector investment in the hydropower sector. The Forum will also showcase a shelf of hydropower projects available in Nepal for private sector investment. In addition, the Forum will provide an opportunity for hydropower developers, power traders, investors and financial institutions to openly discuss risks associated with undertaking hydropower projects in Nepal and to explore innovative financing mechanisms.

Objectives

The key objectives of the Forum are:

  • to facilitate a better dialogue between investors and developers and the Government on promoting increased private sector investment into the hydropower sector, and provide a platform for government and industry officials to meet with local, regional and international developers and investors;
  • highlight the recent incentives introduced by the Government to attract private investment in the energy sector; and
  • deliberate on how to increase momentum and rationalize the investment framework to fast track the development and financing of hydropower projects in Nepal.

Target participants

Participation is by invitation only

Representatives from the following government, private sector, development partners and civil society organizations are being invited to participate in the Forum:

  • Government agencies including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Industry, National Planning Commission, Water and Energy Commission, etc.
  • Nepal Electricity Authority
  • Development Partners
  • Private Sector Developers
  • Overseas Investors
  • Power Traders
  • Financial Institutions and Banks
  • Technical Experts
  • Civil Society Organizations