Karnali - Chisapani Wind Power Project (10MW)

The Karnali-Chisapani Wind Power Project (10MW) represents the Government of Nepal's pioneering initiative to harness wind energy in the Himalayan region. Located in Lamki Chuha Municipality of Kailali District, Sudurpaschim Province, the project site lies within 1 km downstream of the Karnali-Chisapani Bridge at coordinates 28⁰38'5.05" N, 81⁰16'19.37" E. Accessible via a 500 km motorable road from Kathmandu along the East-West highway, the site can also be reached from Nepalgunj Airport (90 km) or Dhangadi Airport (100 km). The terrain, characterized by steep hills, features a mean turbine base elevation of approximately 200 m. Secondary satellite data indicate an average wind speed of 6 m/s at 50 m height, making the site commercially viable for wind power generation.

Nepal's electricity sector has predominantly relied on hydropower, with minimal utilization of its vast renewable energy potential, especially wind energy. To enhance energy security and sustainability, it is crucial to diversify the national energy grid by incorporating renewable Sources like wind and solar energy. According to the Solar and Wind Energy Resource Assessment (SWERA), Nepal has the potential to generate 3,000 MW of electricity from wind energy, particularly from areas with a wind Power density exceeding 300 W/m².

Project Overview 
In response to this potential, the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) plans to develop a 10 MWac wind power project in Lamki Chuha Municipality, Ward-3, Kaitatj District, Sudurpaschji Province. This site has been identified as feasible, with an average wind Speed of approximately 6 m/s at a height of 50 meters, making it suitable for a commercial wind power project. This initiative represents Nepal's first large-scale wind power project and aims to set a precedent for future developments in the renewable energy sector.

KEY TECHNICAL DETAILS

Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs)
• Capacity: The project will deploy five 2 MW wind turbine generators, totaling 10 MWac capacity.
• Technology: Modern WTGs with advanced features for optimized performance and reliability.
• Specifications: WTGs will be selected based on their ability to operate efficiently at the site's average wind speed of approximately 6 m/s at 50 meters height.

Transformers
• Capacity: Five units of 2.5 MVA transformers will be installed to step up the voltage for transmission.

• Function: These transformers will convert

Transmission Line

• Length: A 12 km transmission line will be constructed to connect the wind farm to the national grid.
• Voltage: The line will operate at 33 kV, ensuring efficient transmission of the generated power.
• Design Considerations: The line will be designed to minimize losses and ensure reliability, adhering to national and international standards.

Estimated Annual Energy Generation

• Energy Output: The project is expected to generate approximately 21,918 MWh annually at the grid connection point. 
• Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF): The estimated CUF is 25.02%, reflecting the efficiency and productivity of the wind power project.