73 MW Mid-Tamor sets test production date for December 30

Kathmandu : The Mid-Tamor Hydropower Project is all set to start its test production from December 30, 2023, while it has expedited the construction work to meet the scheduled date.  

The 73 MW hydropower project, which is currently under construction in Taplejung, is eyeing toward starting commercial production from February 27, 2024. Project Manager Dr Maniraj Pokharel said all necessary processes for electricity production will be completed by the stipulated date.

Initially, the project had anticipated commercial electricity production by 2024, however it seems to come online earlier than the set date as the construction work is progressing ahead of the schedule. While the early testing of power generation remains on track, there is some confusion regarding the connection to the central power transmission line.

According to a project official, the capacity of the transmission line in Taplejung's Maiwakhola Rural Municipality-1 has been reduced from 220 kVA to 132 kVA. However, the Mid-Tamor Hydropower Project can only be connected to a 220 kVA power transmission line.

Previously, the project was reported to have completed all the necessary infrastructure work for the transmission line, which is set to be integrated at Dhungesanghu. However, no official statement has been made regarding the reduced capacity of the transmission line at the electricity substation in Dhungesanghu. If this capacity reduction persists, Middle Tamor may need to transport its generated power to Basantpur in Tehrathum for inclusion in the central power transmission, potentially causing delays in commercial production.

The Indian company KEC International has been made responsible for constructing the electricity substation in Dhungesanghu at a cost of Rs 2.78 billion.  The project has reported that approximately 90 percent of the substation work has been completed. The project has earmarked an estimated cost of Rs 13.33 billion, out of which 75 percent will be financed by banks, while 25 percent will be equity capital.