Nepal’s Green Hydrogen Revolution: Pioneering Sustainability in the Himalayas

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Green Background with wind turbines

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Nepal faces a dual challenge: climate change and energy security. As a developing nation, Nepal recognizes the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy sources. Enter green hydrogen, a clean and versatile energy carrier produced through water electrolysis using renewable energy. In this blog, we explore Nepal’s journey with green hydrogen, highlighting the pivotal role played by Dr. Biraj Singh Thapa and the Green Hydrogen Lab at Kathmandu University.

The Himalayan Vulnerability

The Himalayas, often referred to as the “Third Pole,” are highly vulnerable to global climate change. Melting glaciers and snow feed Nepal’s major rivers, sustaining millions of lives downstream. However, climate change threatens this delicate balance. Nepal’s Second National Communication to the UNFCCC (2014) identifies sectors such as energy, agriculture, water resources, forestry, biodiversity, and health as most at risk.

Green Hydrogen’s Promise

  1. Reducing Carbon Emissions:

    • Green hydrogen powers industries like steel, cement, and transport, emitting only water vapor instead of CO2.
    • By decoupling hydrogen production from fossil fuels, green hydrogen contributes significantly to climate mitigation.

  2. Energy Security:

    • Produced through water electrolysis using electricity from renewable sources, green hydrogen enhances energy security.
    • Nepal, with abundant hydropower potential, can harness this resource effectively.

  3. Food Security:

    • Green hydrogen can produce green ammonia, a key ingredient for eco-friendly fertilizers.
    • Ensuring food safety and security is critical for Nepal’s sustainable development.

  4. Economic Development:

    • Green hydrogen supports sustainable economic growth.
    • It creates jobs, attracts investment, and fosters innovation.

Nepal Green Hydrogen Summit (NGHS) 2022

  • Organizers:

    • The NGHS, held from October 10 to 11, 2022, was a collaborative effort.
    • Partners included the Government of Nepal - Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation (MoWERI), the Ministry of Finance, Global Green Growth Institute, Wind Power Nepal, Kathmandu University, and Melbourne Institute of Technology.
    • Dr. Biraj Singh Thapa played a crucial role in shaping the summit.

  • Objectives:

    1. Feasibility Assessment:
      • Evaluate the feasibility of green hydrogen production, storage, and distribution in Nepal.
    2. Private Investment:
      • Attract large-scale private investment in green hydrogen and urea production.
    3. Urea Potential:
      • Analyze the potential of urea production from green ammonia.

Dr. Biraj Singh Thapa: Leading the Charge

  • Green Hydrogen Lab:

    • Dr. Thapa, an Associate Professor at Kathmandu University, leads the Green Hydrogen Lab.
    • The lab focuses on research, innovation, and adaptation of green hydrogen technology in Nepal.
    • Its mission: transfer knowledge and drive local adoption of green hydrogen solutions.

  • Vision for Nepal:

    • Dr. Thapa envisions a hydrogen-powered Nepal by 2040.
    • He believes that integrating green hydrogen into Nepal’s energy landscape is essential for sustainable development.

Policy Initiatives

  • November 2021:

    • Nepal initiated the policy-making process for green hydrogen integration.
    • A commitment to cleaner energy and environmental conservation.

  • January 2024:

    • The Council of Ministers approved a policy allowing green hydrogen production and use.
    • Nepal’s abundant renewable resources, especially hydropower, will play a pivotal role.

Conclusion

Nepal’s future with green hydrogen innovation holds immense promise. As the hydrogen economy evolves, integrating existing hydropower plants with green hydrogen facilities could be transformative. Let’s envision a greener, more resilient Nepal—one powered by innovation, sustainability, and the determination to safeguard our planet.

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