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Nepal’s ambitious investments in hydropower, aimed at establishing the country as a leader in sustainable energy, are facing a significant environmental challenge. Despite pouring billions into hydropower projects designed to harness the nation’s vast water resources, Nepal’s carbon footprint is set to increase with the planned construction of new petroleum pipelines and storage facilities.
India and Nepal have recently agreed on several energy infrastructure projects that include expanding the network of fuel pipelines between the two countries. These developments are part of a broader strategy to ensure a stable and efficient supply of petroleum products to Nepal. This landlocked country relies heavily on imports for its energy needs. Among the new projects is a proposed pipeline to supply liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), further entrenching fossil fuels in the country’s energy mix.
These fuel pipelines expand when Nepal is simultaneously pushing forward with its hydropower agenda. The country has long been recognized for its potential in hydropower, with thousands of rivers and streams that offer an opportunity for sustainable energy generation. The government’s commitment to this sector is evident in the significant investments made to build large-scale hydroelectric plants, which are expected to not only meet domestic energy demand but also promote Nepal as a significant energy exporter in the area.
However, the parallel development of fossil fuel infrastructure has raised concerns among environmentalists and energy experts. The addition of new pipelines and storage facilities is likely to increase the country’s carbon emissions, undermining the environmental benefits of its hydropower projects. Critics argue that the focus on petroleum infrastructure contradicts Nepal’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and could jeopardize its efforts to combat climate change.
The government, however, defends the move, citing the need for energy security and the practical challenges of transitioning to a fully renewable energy system in the short term. Officials argue that while hydropower remains a priority, the country cannot afford to neglect its immediate energy needs, which are still largely dependent on fossil fuels. For example, the proposed LPG pipeline is viewed as a means of guaranteeing Nepalese households a consistent and affordable supply of cooking gas.