The Upper Sanigad Hydroelectric Project (USHP) represents a pivotal step towards sustainable energy production in the Kaphalseri and Pipalkot VDCs of Bajhang district, Seti zone, Far-Western Region, Nepal. Identified by Bungal Hydro P Ltd (BHPL) in 2072 BS, this run-of-the-river scheme has undergone meticulous optimization to ensure both technical viability and financial attractiveness.

Access to the project area is facilitated through the Jaya Prithvi Bahadur Singh Highway, with approximately 10 km of project access road slated for construction. The project’s configuration, determined through optimization studies, culminated in an estimated capacity of 10.70 MW, based on the 25th percentile flow. However, design considerations, including the stipulations of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), led to a design for approximately 40-percentile flow.

Structural elements such as the intake, settling basin, and headrace pipe are strategically located along the right bank of the Sanigad River, while other civil components span the left bank, supported by bedrock, alluvial deposits, and colluvial deposits.

The project diverts a designed flow of 3.30m3/s via a 4.0 m high weir across the Sanigad River at Mallo Bagad Village, with a net head of 416.670m. Featuring two Pelton turbine generating units, the project is projected to produce a net salable annual energy of 62.707GWh. Power generated will be evacuated through a Single Circuit 132 kV transmission line from Upper Sanigad Hydroelectric Project Switchyard,  to the NEA Balanch Substation via a 20km 132kV transmission line.

Environmental and social impact studies have been integrated into the approved Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) study report, highlighting the project’s potential to stimulate business and employment opportunities, enhance public facilities, and uplift local livelihoods.