A Sustainable Energy Source in the Himalayas?

Nepal, with its vast river systems and mountainous terrain, holds immense potential for hydropower generation. The country is eager to increase its own hydropower capacities tenfold and is active in attracting substantial foreign direct investments (FDI). As the country seeks to harness this natural resource, hydropower has emerged as a key driver for economic growth, energy security, and sustainable development. However, the benefits and challenges of hydropower extend beyond Nepal's borders, influencing regional cooperation, energy trade, and environmental sustainability.

How critical is hydropower for Nepal’s development? What is the broader impact of this energy source on the region? How can the balance between economic development and sustainability be achieved? How can Germany support hydropower projects in Nepal and the broader region? We warmly invite you to join us in this engaging discussion, share your questions, and contribute your perspectives.

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). This BMZ-funded event contributes to making the goals of the Agenda 2023, adopted by the United Nations in 2015, especially in the areas of human rights and the rule of law, better known. This event is co-hosted by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom and OAV – German Asia-Pacific Business Association.

Guests

Mareen Haring
has been working at Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI), the federal foreign trade agency, in the area of ​​South and Southeast Asia since 2021. Based in Berlin, she is responsible for market observation for the countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Bipin Ghimire
is a Regional Political Analyst at the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) in New Delhi. He completed his PhD from the Department of International Relations, at South Asian University. His areas of interest include international relations, Sino-Indian Relations and South Asian politics.

Sumit Bajracharya
is a dedicated professional in the hydropower sector of Nepal, with over 15 years of experience in project execution and business development. He completed his bachelor’s degree in electrical and Electronic Engineering in Bangalore, India, and later earned an Executive MBA from Ace Institute of Management in Nepal.