NEA Expects 1,700 MW Peak Demand on Laxmi Puja, 2,500 MW Generation

Kathmandu: The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has assured consumers of an uninterrupted electricity supply during the Tihar and Chhath festivals, estimating peak power demand at around 1,700 megawatts on the evening of Laxmi Puja, the main day of Tihar.

The authority has projected electricity generation at approximately 2,500 MW during the festival period, which is expected to be sufficient to meet domestic demand without requiring electricity imports.

The NEA has reiterated that there will be no load-shedding during the festivals, stating that special arrangements have been made to ensure a reliable, regular and quality power supply to consumers.

As part of its preparations, the state-owned utility has taken measures to maintain the generation, transmission and distribution systems in optimal condition. Technical personnel have also been instructed to remain on standby around the clock to respond to any potential disruptions.

NEA Executive Director Dirghayu Kumar Shrestha said he had directed all subordinate units to remain alert and vigilant to address possible challenges during the festival period.

According to Shrestha, discussions and coordination were held with officials from the Load Dispatch Center, Grid Operation Department, and provincial and divisional offices under the Distribution and Customer Services Directorate. The discussions focused on electricity supply management, system monitoring and the deployment of necessary technical personnel.

The authority has also instructed relevant units to complete any pending inspection and maintenance work on transmission lines and distribution systems promptly to minimize the risk of power disruptions.

In addition, the NEA has directed its offices to ensure that calls received at the 'No Light' service desks are answered promptly so that consumer complaints related to electricity supply can be addressed without delay.

Consumers facing electricity supply problems have been advised to contact their nearest distribution centre or the relevant 'No Light' service desk.

Meanwhile, the NEA has urged consumers to exercise caution while using electricity during Tihar and Chhath.

It has advised households to inspect electrical appliances and wiring, avoid using substandard electrical materials, and refrain from carrying out electrical repairs themselves. Consumers experiencing electrical leakage or wiring problems have been urged to seek assistance from qualified technicians.