Pokhara: Gandaki province has successfully conducted maintenance on 90 micro hydropower projects over the past five years, resulting in the smooth operation of these projects. The Province Ministry of Energy, Hydropower, and Drinking Water reported that these maintenance efforts have enabled a total electricity production capacity of 3,295 KW. This achievement has directly benefited 15,440 households, enhancing their access to reliable power sources.

Engineer Jeewan Shrestha, representing the Energy Section, highlighted that the province is home to approximately 400 micro hydropower projects, with 371 of them being promoted by the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC). Presently, the province's electricity supply includes both solar power and micro hydropower, covering around 3.82 percent of the population. However, an even larger portion, 99.50 percent of the province's residents, enjoys electricity access through the National Transmission Line and other renewable energy sources.

The province's commitment to power generation is further underscored by its ongoing efforts, such as the construction of the 30-KW Bhimtang Micro Hydropower Project in Naso Rural Municipality of Manang. Moreover, the province has achieved a notable milestone with the integration of the 98-KW Putpute rivulet micro hydropower project into the national transmission line.

Looking ahead, the province government is set to launch the 'Ujyalo Gandaki Province' campaign during the current fiscal year, demonstrating its dedication to further advancing electricity access. The goal is to ensure that the remaining 0.50 percent of the province's population, comprising 2,480 households, also gains access to electricity. This concerted effort exemplifies the province's commitment to inclusive and sustainable development through improved energy infrastructure.