Nepal's Solar Energy ChallengesCEFR B1
4 Nov 2025
Adapted from Sonia Awale, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Calum Hill, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
Nepal has significant solar energy potential, estimated at 432 gigawatts, which far exceeds its hydropower capacity. With over 300 days of sunlight each year, solar could play a vital role in addressing frequent energy shortages. Unfortunately, the government restricts solar energy to just 10 percent of the total energy mix, primarily influenced by concerns over technology stability and cost tariffs.
Hydropower is currently dominant in Nepal's energy landscape, but it is under increasing threat due to climate change risks, making its reliability uncertain. Experts argue that solar energy can provide a more dependable alternative if the government revises its policies and allows more investment. Additionally, geopolitical tensions between Nepal's neighbors, India and China, complicate these developments, as external influence affects decision-making.
Despite the challenges, there are opportunities in small-scale solar projects, particularly in industrial sectors that can leverage rooftop space for solar panels, helping increase energy production while keeping in mind local and international relations.
Difficult words
- solar — Relating to the sun or sunlight.solar energy
- energy — The power to do work or produce heat.energy shortages, energy mix
- capacity — The maximum amount something can hold or produce.
- government — The group that rules or leads a country.
- investment — Money used to help a business or project grow.
- complicate — To make something harder or more difficult.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How do you think solar energy could improve Nepal's energy situation?
- What are the potential benefits of increased investment in solar energy?
- In what ways might geopolitics affect energy policy in Nepal?
- How can small-scale solar projects benefit local industries?
Related articles
Citizen Science Data Can Help Achieve Sustainable Development Goals
Citizen science can improve health and well-being data for Sustainable Development Goals. It involves the public collecting important information for researchers.
China's Lithium Mining in Nigeria: Opportunities and Challenges
Activists are concerned about the local benefits of China's lithium extraction in Nigeria, highlighting economic and environmental issues.
Los Angeles Wildfires Increased Virtual Health Visits
Research shows that the Los Angeles fires in January 2025 led to a rise in virtual health care visits, especially for respiratory issues. This suggests that people may turn to online health services during emergencies.
Uzbekistan's Investment in Waste-to-Energy Plants with China
Uzbekistan is building waste-to-energy plants with Chinese support to tackle waste management. These projects aim to generate electricity while addressing environmental challenges.
Cholera Outbreak in Sudan
A cholera outbreak in Sudan has spread across all states, leading to thousands of cases and deaths amidst ongoing conflict and poor sanitary conditions.
Understanding Climate Change
This article explains climate change, its causes, and effects on the environment.