Nepal, South Korea Explore New Energy Cooperation

Nepal and South Korea are looking to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, with a focus on large reservoir-based hydropower and green hydrogen production.

During a meeting on Monday, Energy, Hydropower and Irrigation Minister Kulman Ghising requested South Korean Ambassador Park Taeyoung to support Nepal in developing reservoir-type hydropower projects above 500 megawatts, which are essential for energy stability and export.

Minister Ghising also pointed out Nepal’s growing potential in green hydrogen, which could be used to produce fertilizer and power public transport. He expressed hope that South Korea would assist in this new area of clean energy development.

The minister further urged the South Korean side to increase the employment quota for Nepali workers under the Employment Permit System (EPS) and to promote entrepreneurship among those returning from Korea.

Highlighting ongoing cooperation, Ghising mentioned that the Upper Trishuli-1 Hydropower Project, being built with Korean investment, has already achieved more than 70 percent progress and is expected to reach a major breakthrough by December.

Ambassador Taeyoung congratulated Ghising on his appointment and said discussions are underway with Nepal’s Finance Ministry to assist in building transmission lines.