Butwal, Nepal – December 14, 2024
Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has completed the construction and operation of the New Butwal–Bardaghat 220 kV double-circuit transmission line, marking a significant step forward in enhancing the country's electricity infrastructure. This project is poised to bolster Nepal’s energy reliability, enable efficient domestic distribution, and strengthen cross-border electricity trade with India.
Spanning 21.5 kilometers, the transmission line connects the New Butwal Substation in Sunwal Municipality, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta West), to Bardaghat Municipality. The line, officially charged on Thursday, integrates with the 220 kV New Bharatpur–New Butwal transmission line, creating a robust infrastructure from Hetauda to New Butwal.
Capacity for Growth
The newly commissioned line has a capacity to carry up to 1,200 megawatts of electricity, paving the way for seamless integration of power generated from the Kaligandaki and its tributaries into the national grid. This includes hydropower projects along the Kaligandaki Corridor, which extends from Dana in Myagdi to New Butwal Substation.
“This project has established a 220 kV backbone for electricity flow across the east-west corridor,” said Kulman Ghising, Managing Director of NEA. “The improved voltage levels will significantly enhance the reliability of Nepal's overall energy system.”
Regional and International Impacts
The transmission line is expected to facilitate year-round electricity trade. During monsoon months, surplus electricity will be exported to India via the Dhalkebar interconnection, while imports will ensure sufficient supply during the dry winter months.
Further opportunities will arise once the New Butwal–Gorakhpur second cross-border transmission line is completed, enabling Nepal to scale up its power export and import capacities. Ghising highlighted that the project primarily supports electricity flow from the Kaligandaki and Marsyangdi river basins, further boosting hydropower development in Nepal’s western region.
Green Energy Leadership
The successful completion of this project underscores Nepal’s commitment to becoming a regional leader in renewable energy. By ensuring efficient electricity distribution and fostering cross-border trade, the New Butwal–Bardaghat line positions Nepal as a key player in South Asia’s energy network.
This initiative aligns with Nepal’s broader goals of reducing energy imports during peak demand seasons, improving domestic supply, and generating economic opportunities through hydropower export.
