Iwa Khola Hydro Electric Project (9.9 MW)

The Iwa Khola Hydropower Project is a significant run-of-the-river hydroelectric plant located in the Taplejung District of Nepal. It harnesses the flow of the Iwa River to generate electricity, contributing to Nepal’s national grid. Below is a detailed overview of the project:

Project Overview

• Official Name: Iwa Khola Hydropower Project  
• Location: Sawalakhu, Taplejung District, Nepal  
• Coordinates: 27°16′30″N 87°50′05″E (dam), 27°44′20″N 83°27′43″E (power station)  
• -Purpose: Power generation  
• Status: Operational since 2076-06-20 BS (approximately 2019 AD)

Technical Specifications

• Type: Run-of-the-river hydropower plant  
• Installed Capacity: 9.90 MW  
• -Dam Type: Gravity dam  
• River Impounded: Iwa River  
• -Commission Date: 2072-03-28 BS (approximately 2015 AD) . 

Ownership and Development

•  Owner: Rairang Hydropower Development Company Limited, a subsidiary of Ridi Hydropower Development Company Limited with 268 shareholders .  
• Developer: Rairang Hydropower Development Company Limited  
• Generation License: Valid until 2107-03-27 BS (approximately 2050 AD), after which the plant will be handed over to the government .

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) .  
• Testing of the powerhouse, turbine, and other machinery was successfully completed before its operational launch .

Environmental and Social Impact

• The project is a run-of-the-river type, which typically has a lower environmental impact compared to reservoir-based hydropower projects.  
• It contributes to Nepal’s renewable energy goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting sustainable development.

Significance

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