Pokhara Metropolitan City Unveils First Municipal Energy Plan to Foster Sustainable Urban Development

Strategic Insights -

The Pokhara Metropolitan City has taken a significant step towards sustainable urban development with the launch of its first Municipal Energy Plan (MEP). The five-year plan aims to expand energy access, enhance energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy solutions to meet the city's growing energy demands while aligning with Nepal's national energy and climate goals. The plan was formally approved and endorsed by the city in February 2025, with a total budget of Rs. 1.339 billion. The MEP identifies key priority areas, including increasing clean and efficient renewable energy generation, promoting transition to locally available renewable sources, and enhancing energy efficiency in commercial and industrial sectors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Pokhara Municipal Energy Plan (MEP) is a five-year plan aimed at expanding energy access, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy solutions.
  • The plan was developed by the Energy Development Subcommittee with technical support from the REEEP-GREEN project following a comprehensive nine-step preparation process.
  • The MEP was formally approved and endorsed by Pokhara Metropolitan City in February 2025.
  • The total budget for the plan is Rs. 1.339 billion.
  • Key priority areas identified in the MEP include increasing clean and efficient renewable energy generation, promoting transition to locally available renewable sources, and enhancing energy efficiency in commercial and industrial sectors.
  • The plan also aims to reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions and raise public awareness through policy initiatives and educational campaigns.
  • Mayor Dhanaraj Acharya emphasized the city's commitment to implementing the plan in close collaboration with all stakeholders.
  • Effective coordination amongst all three tiers of government is crucial for the successful implementation of the MEP.

Statistics:

  • Total budget for the Pokhara Municipal Energy Plan: Rs. 1.339 billion
  • Duration of the Municipal Energy Plan: five years

Sources:

  • Pokhara Metropolitan City statement on the launching of the Municipal Energy Plan.
  • Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC)
  • GIZ Nepal
  • REEEP-GREEN project
  • European Union (EU)
  • German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
  • Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation (MoEWRI)