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Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha said the government is preparing an 'LP gas-free municipality' initiative and, Corporate Nepal reported, directed the Alternative Energy Promotion Center to start preparing.
Read the full reportGovernment plans to launch 'LP gas-free municipality' initiative
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The government is initiating a campaign to transition municipalities away from Liquefied Petroleum (LP) gas, aiming to enhance local economic development and energy self-sufficiency. Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha announced the plan during the 30th-anniversary celebration of the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC) on November 4, 2026. The minister has directed the AEPC to immediately begin assessing the energy potential, consumption patterns, and future needs of municipalities to structure the rollout. Minister Shrestha emphasized that the renewable energy sector must move beyond subsidy-based models, advocating for integration with private investment, technology, and local entrepreneurship to drive economic growth.
Beyond the gas-free initiative, the government is advancing the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Bill in the House of Representatives to reform the AEPC’s capacity. Minister Shrestha also highlighted the need for decentralized energy systems to bolster climate resilience and disaster preparedness. Separately, the minister has instructed the Nepal Electricity Authority to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the upcoming Tihar and Chhath festivals.
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Minister Shrestha directs NEA to ensure uninterrupted power during festivals
Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has instructed the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) to ensure a reliable and uninterrupted power supply during the upcoming Tihar and Chhath festivals. According to Gorkhapatra, the minister directed the authority's executive director and senior officials to analyze electricity demand and supply forecasts to prevent outages during the festive period.
Additionally, Minister Shrestha has ordered the NEA to prepare a comprehensive action plan for the approaching dry season. He requested that the authority evaluate domestic production and potential electricity imports to maintain consistent supply, with a detailed strategy to be presented at the next board meeting.