Kabeli B1 Hydro Electric Project (25 MW)

The Kabeli B1 Hydropower Project is a notable run-of-the-river hydroelectric plant located in the Panchthar District of Nepal. It utilizes the flow of the Kabeli River to generate electricity, contributing to Nepal’s national grid. Below is a detailed overview of the project:

Project Overview

• Official Name: Kabeli B1 Hydropower Project  
• Location: Panchthar District, Province No. 1, Nepal  
• Coordinates: Approximately 27°10′N 87°45′E (project site)  
• Purpose: Power generation  
• Status: Operational

Technical Specifications

• Type: Run-of-the-river hydropower plant  
• Installed Capacity: 25 MW  
• Dam Type: Weir (diversion structure)  
• River Impounded: Kabeli River  
• Commission Date: Commissioned in recent years

Ownership and Development

• Owner: Kabeli Energy Pvt. Ltd.  
• Developer: Kabeli Energy Pvt. Ltd.  
• Generation License: Valid for a specific period, after which the plant may be handed over to the government, as per Nepal’s hydropower policies .  

Financial Details

• Total Project Cost: NPR 1.60 billion (approximately USD 13.3 million)  
• Financing: 65% of the cost was financed by a consortium of banks, including Bank of Kathmandu, Machhapuchchhre Bank, Nepal Credit and Commerce Bank, Siddhartha Bank, and Citizen Bank . 

Power Generation and Grid Connection

• The project is connected to Nepal’s national grid and sells electricity to the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) under a power purchase agreement (PPA) .  
• It generates approximately 140 GWh of electricity annually, contributing significantly to the region’s energy supply .  

Environmental and Social Impact

•  As a run-of-the-river project, Kabeli B1 has a relatively low environmental impact compared to reservoir-based hydropower projects.  
•  The project adheres to environmental and social safeguards, ensuring minimal disruption to local ecosystems and communities.  
•  It supports Nepal’s renewable energy goals and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.  

Significance

The Kabeli B1 Hydropower Project is a key contributor to Nepal’s energy sector, providing clean and renewable electricity to the national grid. Its successful operation highlights the potential for further hydropower development in the Kabeli River basin, supporting economic growth and energy security in Nepal .