Nepal solar energy assessment

When was the first solar energy resource assessment conducted in Nepal?

In 2008, the first solar and wind energy resource assessment was conducted in Nepal, providing estimates of its renewable energy potential [ 14 ]. In 2017, the National Renewable Energy framework, National Energy Efficiency Strategy, and Solar net-metering guidelines were developed.

What is Nepal's solar and wind energy development?

We categorize Nepal's solar and wind energy development in four phases. Nepal can harness up to 47,628 MW of solar and 1,686 MW of wind energy. The Annapurna Conservation Area has more than 60% of Nepal's wind energy potential. Energy policies need to go beyond small-scale systems to utilize these potentials.

How is solar and wind energy potential analyzed in Nepal?

Thus, we have carried out a spatial and economic analysis of solar and wind energy potential at the provincial level for the first time in Nepal. Our analysis is built upon the spatial energy modeling based on technical, geographical, and economic suitability criteria, utilizing open-source geographical information system platforms.

Are solar and wind power plants possible in Nepal?

Possibility of solar and wind power plants Our study highlights that Nepal has an abundant resource of solar energy (i.e., up to 47,628 MW) and a relatively lower potential for wind energy (i.e., up to 1686 MW) compared to that of other developing countries (e.g., Bangladesh [ 10] and India [ 11 ]).

Can solar power be installed in Nepal?

These considerations provide conservative estimates of solar and wind energy in Nepal, which could be higher if tracking solar PV systems or higher class wind power plants are considered. Additionally, installing a 4.5 MW wind turbine would be a challenge in most locations in Nepal due to a need to transport the long wind blades in mountain roads.

Does Nepal need high-resolution data on solar and wind energy?

For example, our analysis is based on global datasets and despite being it is high-resolution data, proper ground validation of this data is missing. Thus, Nepal needs to generate national high-resolution data on solar and wind energy by measuring and monitoring these resources at different locations in the country.