The discovery of a significant methane reserve in western Nepal brings new possibilities for the country’s energy future. Preliminary reports indicate there’s about 112 billion cubic meters of methane, which could potentially replace a large portion of Nepal’s energy needs.
Currently, Nepal relies heavily on biofuels and imported petroleum. If the methane can be efficiently extracted and utilized, it might meet the nation’s energy demands for the next 50 years. However, several challenges lie ahead, including technical, environmental, and political hurdles, especially concerning sustainable extraction and distribution.
Global Context
Many countries, like the United States, lead the world in methane production, generating hundreds of trillions of cubic meters annually. In contrast, Nepal’s energy profile includes about 91% from biofuels and oil, with only about 8-9% coming from renewable sources like hydropower and solar. This makes methane a pivotal opportunity for change.
Constructing the necessary infrastructure—like drilling plants and pipelines—will be costly. Some estimates suggest the cost of laying pipelines in Nepal’s hilly terrain could exceed 100 million rupees per kilometer. Hence, government collaboration with local and international partners will be essential for this project.
Environmental Considerations
When it comes to using methane, environmental impact is significant. Countries like the U.S. and China are cautious about methane use due to its greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, 1 kg of methane can produce 28 kg of CO2 equivalent. If Nepal utilizes the entire reserve, it could emit an additional 150 million metric tons of greenhouse gases annually, which raises concerns given its previous status as a low-emission country.
Interestingly, Nepal’s emissions have tripled since the early 2000s, but the nation still ranks low in global emissions. Nevertheless, the focus should be on how to responsibly use methane without severely impacting the environment. Learning from advanced countries, such as those implementing carbon capture technology, can guide Nepal toward sustainable practices.
A Balanced Approach
Planning for the future is essential. Stakeholders must ensure funding for infrastructure and prioritize sustainable energy practices. It’s also necessary to establish national guidelines for methane utilization to mitigate potential greenhouse gas emissions.
As Nepal seeks energy independence, it must balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. Taking lessons from global efforts can help navigate this path, allowing Nepal to achieve its energy goals while committing to a greener and healthier future.
For more on methane’s environmental impacts and usage, you can check this report from the International Energy Agency.
