KATHMANDU: A tense exchange unfolded at the 23rd AGM of the Independent Power Producers’ Association of Nepal (IPPAN) between Energy Minister Deepak Khadka and former Energy Minister Janardan Sharma.

Sharma accused the government of inaction in expediting Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and failing to prevent license hoarding in the hydropower sector. Pointing at Minister Khadka, who was on his phone, Sharma urged him to listen instead of appearing disinterested.

In a sharp rebuttal, Minister Khadka questioned what the Maoist-led ministry achieved during its 12-year tenure, asserting that stalled projects are now progressing. He called for consistency from political leaders and asked them not to hinder development with double standards.

Khadka reiterated the government’s goal of generating 28,500 MW of electricity in the next decade and said PPAs are being signed in line with the Prime Minister’s directive to enable power production wherever transmission lines exist.

He stressed ongoing coordination with the Forest Ministry to ease project delays and highlighted the vital role of the private sector.

He further emphasized the need for investment in mixed energy models, including solar, and affirmed that energy laws will be updated to keep pace with national goals.