Nepal’s largest hydroelectric plant to add 1,061 MW to the national grid

Nepal, a land of rugged mountains and pristine rivers, continues its development as a pivotal power hub nation. Located around 200 km east of Kathmandu in the Koshi Province, the Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project (UAHEP) is the latest addition to the country’s growing energy network. It will harness the energy of the Arun River to deliver a steady supply of electricity during peak demand times.

The 1,061-MW hydroelectric plant will harness the energy of the Arun river

Tractebel and partner to oversee entire project

Our hydropower experts from Germany and France have joined forces with our partner WAPCOS Limited of India to oversee every phase, from inception to completion. The focus will be on tender design, preparing bidding documents, providing construction supervision, and offering dedicated post-construction services.

With a strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and stakeholder satisfaction, our goal is to deliver a project to our client Upper Arun Hydroelectric Limited (subsidiary of Nepal Electricity Authority) that not only withstands the test of time, but also enhances the socio-economic condition of the region. The project begins in March 2023 and is expected to enter into operation by 2033.

BIM technology to streamline the process

Our experts will use BIM technology for the construction, with a main objective to streamline the design process and enhance coordination among different disciplines and stakeholders. Using BIM will mitigate information loss across the asset's lifecycle, ensuring that relevant data is captured once and utilized multiple times through various stages. This approach minimizes duplication of effort and maximizes the effectiveness of analysis, procurement, and eventual operation. Additionally, the project aims to create a digital twin of the hydroelectric facility, to facilitate management and maintenance tasks.

Harnessing the power of nature for sustainable energy

The main components of the UAHEP are the headworks, the waterways and the powerhouse complex, including a roller compacted concrete gravity dam with a maximum height of 100 m, and a total crest length of 183 m. The underground powerhouse cavern will house six Pelton turbine units of 173.33 MW each. With an average annual energy output of 4,531 GWh, a 6-km transmission line will integrate (via the planned Haitar substation) with the Integrated Nepal Power System (INPS) at the 400 kV Shitalpati substation.

Site of the Upper Arun Hydroelectric Project, Koshi Province, Nepal

A win for the environment, the economy and society

The generated energy will significantly strengthen Nepal's GDP and enhance its energy export capacity, further cementing its position as a key player in the regional power sector. This surplus energy will not only drive economic growth, but also contribute to mitigating environmental concerns by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and driving the shift towards electricity as the primary energy source for daily life in Nepal.

From a social standpoint, the project will create employment opportunities for local communities, thereby fostering economic empowerment and social inclusion. Engaging residents in project activities will help ensure that benefits are distributed equitably and contribute to overall societal welfare.

“The Government of Nepal regards UAHEP as a “game-changer” among hydroelectric projects, recognizing its low cost of generation and substantial energy availability. Through a commitment to sustainable practices, we envision the project serving as a catalyst for holistic development of the nation, fostering a balanced synergy between economic growth, environmental responsibility, and social inclusivity.”

Sumit Bajracharya, Branch Manager, Tractebel in Nepal

Discover our Hydropower Solutions