CHUWA KHOLA
PROJECT DETAILS
Project name: Chuwa Khola
Project location: Karnali Province, Nepal
Installed capacity: 98.17 MW
Project owner: Bizbell Energy Pvt. Ltd.
ASSESSMENT DETAILS
Assessment tool: Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS)
Assessment stage: Preparation
Assessment date: 15 - 22 May 2023
ASSESSORS FOR THIS PROJECT
ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW
The Chuwa Khola HEP is a 98.17 MW peaking run-of-river hydropower project located just downstream of the Upper Chuwa Lurupya Khola HEP. The project was assessed in its preparation stage using the Hydropower Sustainability Standard. The project is part of a cascade, which includes the Upper Chuwa Lurupya Khola HEP (also assessed using the HS Standard). The objectives of the assessment were to enhance the relationship and communication with stakeholders, improve the socio-environmental management of the project, increase transparency and commitment to sustainability.
The assessment found that the project met all minimum requirements and is eligible for certification. The project sets out effective plans and processes to manage and mitigate the key issues identified for the project, including: land acquisition and economic displacement, construction nuisances, and community health and safety issues. Key benefits from the project include local employment and procurement as well as CSR benefits during construction, as well as reliable and low-carbon electricity provision for the local communities and downstream settlements. Long term benefits will be improved access to electricity and transport links.
Neither of the projects will require the resettlement of any households. It should be noted that among the project-affected communities are the Tamang Indigenous Peoples. While their Free, Prior and informed consent has not yet been achieved, a suitable assessment of the representation of Indigenous Peoples in the project-affected community is ongoing and will be included in the ESIA. The assessment will include identification of their rights at risk and utilise local knowledge, as described in the ESIA ToRs.
The public consultation period for the Assessment Report of Chuwa ended on 6 October 2023.
