The Amadablam Mini Hydro Subproject (911 kW) is a landmark renewable energy initiative under the Mini Grid Energy Access Project (MGEAP), managed by the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) of Nepal’s Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation. Planned at an altitude above 4,400 meters in Pangboche, Khumbu region, it will be the highest-altitude mini hydropower plant in the world. Designed as a run-of-river scheme, the project will harness water from Cholunche Khola (Nare Khola), a tributary of the Dudhkoshi River, to generate clean power through two turbines of 485 kW each and two synchronous generators of 650 kVA. The electricity will be transmitted via 11 kV lines and distributed through a 0.4 kV network, delivering reliable energy to 451 households across 20 remote Himalayan villages, including Chukhung, Dingboche, Pangboche, and Tengboche.

Developed in line with World Bank environmental and social guidelines, the project ensures international standards of safety, sustainability, and community well-being. By providing renewable energy in one of the world’s most fragile and remote environments, it will reduce dependence on diesel, kerosene, and firewood while improving the quality of life, creating local employment, and supporting eco-friendly tourism in the Everest region. Beyond power generation, the Amadablam Mini Hydro Subproject symbolizes a step toward a sustainable, resilient, and self-reliant future for Nepal’s Himalayan communities.

Mission

The mission of the Amadablam Mini Hydro project is to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to remote off-grid communities in the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. By harnessing clean hydropower energy, the project aims to improve the quality of life for local residents, promote economic development, and enhance tourism sustainability while ensuring environmental and social responsibility.

Vision

The vision of the Amadablam Mini Hydro project is to be a model for sustainable and eco-friendly energy development in Nepal, empowering indigenous communities and supporting local economic growth. The project envisions fostering self-sufficiency in energy, preserving the ecological integrity of Sagarmatha National Park, and contributing to a greener and more resilient future.

Objectives

• Assess Environmental & Social Impact – Conduct a detailed study of the existing environmental and social conditions to guide responsible project implementation.
• Define Influence Area – Identify communities and ecosystems affected by the project to ensure effective impact management.
• Impact Analysis & Mitigation – Evaluate both positive and negative effects on the environment, economy, and society, and implement strategies to minimize risks while maximizing benefits.
• Alternative Analysis – Explore and compare different energy solutions, including solar, grid extension, and site alternatives, to select the most sustainable approach.
• Regulatory Compliance & Financing Eligibility – Ensure alignment with Nepal’s legal framework, financial regulations, and international environmental standards, including World Bank policies.
• Environmental & Social Management Plan (ESMP) – Develop a comprehensive plan with monitoring, reporting, and auditing mechanisms to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Institutional & Safety Framework – Establish necessary structures for effective project execution, including Occupational Health & Safety, Emergency Preparedness, Labour Management, Gender Development, and Transport Management Plans.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Benefit Sharing – Actively involve local communities, ensure transparent communication, and implement a fair benefit-sharing mechanism.