Former IPPAN Chairman Krishna Acharya Calls for Collective Pressure on Government for Energy Sector Reforms

Kathmandu. Former Chairman of the Independent Power Producers' Association of Nepal (IPPAN), Krishna Acharya, has stated that collective pressure must be exerted on the government to solve the pervasive problems in the energy sector. Speaking at a program organized to congratulate and extend best wishes to the newly elected executive committee, Acharya emphasized the need for a show of strength and unprecedented unity to address the legitimate demands of the energy sector. Acharya strongly objected to the delay in Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), which are considered very important in the hydropower sector. He noted that the IPO process for energy companies has been completely stalled for the past two years, and entrepreneurs are facing significant difficulties due to the lack of leadership and inefficiency in the regulatory bodies. Criticizing the government's working style, Acharya commented that the one-door system is limited only to paper. Discussing the internal tendencies among entrepreneurs, Acharya expressed the view that they must be freed from the 'great disease' of running files for personal gain against institutional interests. He argued that the tendency to visit government agencies individually instead of engaging in collective bargaining weakens the common movement of energy producers. Targeting the government's indifference, Acharya said, 'Even though we have repeatedly requested PPAs, the government has not listened. We need a clear answer as to whether this is our weakness or the government's. The procedural complexities created by various branches and sub-branches within the same government agency are causing hardship to entrepreneurs. Applying for permits in government agencies has become like offering flowers at Pashupatinath, where there is no guarantee of any response or action.' In the context of IPPAN's growing structure, Acharya also suggested that the new executive committee should call a separate statute convention and amend the statute. He stressed that the government will not fulfill demands merely by crying or begging, and all energy entrepreneurs must unite to ensure their rights and secure their future. He expressed confidence that the current challenges in the energy sector can be overcome only through collective cooperation and strong unity.