Suryakunda Hydro Electric Project (11 MW)

The Suryakunda Hydro Electric Project is an 11 MW run-of-the-river hydropower plant under construction in the Nuwakot District of Nepal. It is being developed by Suryakunda Hydro Electric Limited, a company primarily promoted by Api Power Company Limited. Below is a detailed overview of the project:

Project Overview

• Official Name: Suryakunda Hydro Electric Project  
• Location: Dupcheshwar Rural Municipality, Ward No. 1, Nuwakot District, Nepal  
• River: Tadi Khola  
• Type: Run-of-the-river hydropower plant  
• Installed Capacity: 11 MW  
• Status: Under construction (approximately 80% completed as of December 2024)

Technical Specifications

• Transmission Line: An 8-kilometer-long 33 kV double-circuit transmission line will connect the project to the Samundratar substation, ultimately supplying electricity to Matatirtha, Kathmandu .  
• Electromechanical Components: Advanced machinery from Folwell Energy, India, will be installed in the project .  

Ownership and Development

• Developer: Suryakunda Hydro Electric Limited  
• Major Stakeholder: Api Power Company Limited holds a majority share in the company 

Financial Details

• Total Project Cost: Approximately NPR 220 crores (USD 18.3 million) .  
• Financing: A syndicated loan of NPR 135 crores (USD 11.2 million) has been provided by Nepal SBI Bank in collaboration with Kumari Bank Limited .

IPO Plans

•    The company has received preliminary approval from the Electricity Regulatory Commission to issue an Initial Public Offering (IPO) of 13,79,350 shares at a par value of NPR 100 per share, totaling NPR 13.79 crores (USD 1.15 million) .

Environmental and Social Impact

•  As a run-of-the-river project, it has a relatively low environmental impact compared to reservoir-based hydropower projects.  
•  The project contributes to Nepal’s renewable energy goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting sustainable development .  

Significance

TThe Suryakunda Hydro Electric Project is a key contributor to Nepal’s energy sector, aiming to enhance electricity supply in the Kathmandu region. Once operational, it will generate approximately 62 GWh of electricity annually, significantly supporting the national grid .