Kathmandu - Halesi Tuwachung Municipality has taken a significant leap toward sustainable energy management with the adoption of its Municipal Energy Plan (MEP). The formal handover of the MEP to Mayor Ms. Bimala Rai took place at a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, including Mr. Nawa Raj Dhakal, Executive Director of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC); Ms. Geertrui Louwagie, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Nepal; and Mr. Frank Fecher, Programme Manager of the REEEP-GREEN program at GIZ Nepal.
Photo Source: GIZ Nepal
The MEP, developed by the municipality's Energy Development Sub-Committee (EDSC) with technical support from the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Programme – Green and Inclusive Energy (REEEP-GREEN), provides a comprehensive framework for energy initiatives over the next five years. It emphasizes collaboration with federal and provincial governments and development partners to implement renewable energy solutions, promote energy efficiency, and meet the energy demands of local communities.
In addition to the MEP, the event also marked the handover of feasibility studies for two solar lift irrigation projects, which aim to enhance sustainable agricultural practices through clean energy solutions.
REEEP-GREEN, co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), has played a pivotal role in guiding the municipality through the planning process. The program’s emphasis on renewable energy adoption aligns with Nepal’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and ensuring energy access for all.
This initiative is expected to address energy challenges in Halesi Tuwachung Municipality while fostering environmental conservation and economic development.