KATHMANDU: The Social Security Fund (SSF) has identified hydropower projects, electricity transmission lines, solar energy, and other renewable energy ventures as priority sectors for investment through loans and co-financing arrangements, as total contributions deposited in the fund reached Rs 111.07 billion as of June 3.

The Fund said it is expanding its investment portfolio as contributions continue to grow, adopting a policy to invest in energy projects in partnership with government-owned companies. Of the four investment proposals received so far, two are currently under review.

According to Fund Director Rohit Regmi, the move is aimed at diversifying investments and channeling accumulated resources into productive sectors that support economic growth. The Fund has also prioritized investments in domestic clinker production projects for the cement industry.

The SSF currently has 23,476 registered employers and 2,958,429 contributors. It has paid out claims worth Rs 20.45 billion, including Rs 3.24 billion for medical treatment, health, and maternity benefits.

The Fund has also opened the door for institutional and co-financing loans in tourism, construction, information technology, services, and agriculture. However, it has adopted a policy not to invest in hydropower projects below 20 MW, projects lacking adequate equity participation, or those facing uncertainty over power purchase arrangements and grid connectivity.