Inside Nepal’s Power Command Centre: How EU, KfW & EIB Are Rewiring the Grid
Kathmandu – On May 20, the second day of the European Union’s high-level visit to Nepal (#EUinNepal) began at the Nepal Electricity Authority’s (NEA) Load Dispatch Centre — known as the “brain” of Nepal’s energy system. The EU Heads of Mission (HoMs) were welcomed by Mr. Hitendra Dev Shakya, Managing Director of NEA, and briefed on how the EU, KfW, and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have helped strengthen Nepal’s energy transmission infrastructure and modernize the national grid.
Located in Syuchatar, the Load Dispatch Centre oversees real-time monitoring and control of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution across the country. EU delegates witnessed how advanced SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems and smart-grid features are being used to improve system reliability and reduce operational inefficiencies.
Through its Global Gateway initiative, the EU has committed over €65 million to extend the 220 kV Chilime–Trishuli transmission corridor. This includes a 28-km double-circuit line, new substations at Chilime and Trishuli, and rural electrification components to support access in remote districts like Nuwakot and Rasuwa. The support combines a €14 million grant from KfW, a €25 million loan from EIB, and additional EU funds under the Asia Investment Facility.
The EU delegation praised Nepal’s progress and emphasized the importance of reinforcing grid infrastructure to cut technical losses, enable cross-border electricity trade, and move toward energy self-sufficiency. Nepal’s transmission network now stretches nearly 6,500 km, ranging from 66 kV to 400 kV lines, ready to harness and export its hydropower potential.
Dispatch engineers, diplomats, and utility officials all shared a common optimism. Mr. Shakya noted, “Our modernization efforts — especially digitalization of the Load Dispatch Centre and smart grid rollout — are already yielding more reliable service and stronger infrastructure.”
In essence, Day 2 at the Load Dispatch Centre showcased how collaborative partnerships between Nepal and Europe are not only building concrete assets but also empowering shared goals for sustainable, modern energy systems.
