Speaking at the 24th Annual General Meeting of the Independent Power Producers' Association, Nepal (IPPAN), President Ganesh Karki stressed the need for the immediate implementation of the proposed Sunset Law through an ordinance.

Karki argued that passing the law through the regular legislative process could take at least a year, delaying much-needed reforms in Nepal’s energy sector. He emphasized that the government should act swiftly to unlock investment and accelerate hydropower development.

He noted that successive governments had promised reforms and liberalization in the energy sector but failed to implement them effectively. However, he expressed optimism that the current government's policy commitments and budget provisions could help address long-standing issues.

According to Karki, hydropower projects with a combined capacity of around 16,000 MW are currently in the pipeline awaiting Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). He said he is hopeful that PPAs for these projects will be signed within the next 180 days.

Karki also highlighted challenges faced by projects that secured PPAs as early as 2020 but have been unable to proceed due to delays in obtaining forest clearance and tree-cutting permits. He urged the government to extend project deadlines for nearly 100 affected hydropower projects, arguing that the delays were caused by circumstances beyond the developers' control.