Nepal has so far secured Rs4.83 billion through carbon trading, according to Nawa Raj Dhakal, Executive Director of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) under the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation.
Dhakal made the announcement on Thursday during an event titled “Carbon Financing in Energy Projects: Opportunities for Investment,” organized by AEPC in Kathmandu.
Speaking at the same event, Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Deepak Khadka, emphasized that the revenue generated from carbon trading should be directed towards uplifting economically and socially disadvantaged communities.
“Carbon funds should be utilized to provide solar energy facilities to marginalized and backward communities,” Khadka stated, underscoring the importance of collective efforts in reducing carbon emissions.
The minister also highlighted that the recently endorsed ‘Energy Development Guideline and Action Plan 2081’ remains the government's top priority.
In addition, Khadka noted that the ‘Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency bill, which has already been approved by the National Assembly, is now under consideration in the House of Representatives. The government, he said, is committed to ensuring its swift endorsement by the Lower House.
Meanwhile, National Planning Commission member Prof. Dr. RP Bichha called for Nepal to maximize its benefits from carbon trading, stressing the potential for further financial gains and environmental improvements.
The event is expected to contribute to discussions at the upcoming ‘Sagarmatha Sambad’, a high-level multi-stakeholder dialogue scheduled for May 16–18, which will advocate for climate justice.
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