Staff Reporter

Solukhumbu, July 25 – The 82 MW Lower Solu Hydropower Project in Solukhumbu district has officially been connected to Nepal’s national grid through the 132 kV double-circuit Solu Corridor via the Tingla substation.

Built with private investment of NPR 16 billion, the project is considered a major milestone in the country’s energy sector. Developed by Solu Hydropower Limited, the project began power generation from its first unit on July 19, and testing of both 41 MW Pelton turbines has already been completed. The Nepal Electricity Authority will conduct further testing over the next 15 days before commercial operation begins.

Construction began in 2016 but faced delays due to landslides, geographical challenges, and technical difficulties. Despite this, the project was completed two months ahead of schedule. It will produce a minimum of 23 MW in the dry season and up to 82 MW during monsoon.

As part of the government’s “Super Six” initiative, the Lower Solu Project is Nepal’s second-largest private hydropower project after the 86 MW Solu Dudhkoshi. The project has also created local jobs and boosted infrastructure development in the region, with expectations of further growth in tourism and industry.