Framework document for sustainable energy in Nepal signed

Talking Points for the Energy+ Framework Document Signing

24 September 2014

I should say a few words about the signatories of the Framework Document.

• Denmark:  We are grateful to have Denmark as the lead Development Partner of Energy+ in Nepal. Denmark is already a lead development partner in the rural energy program and therefore very well positioned to work out the synergies of these programmes. In addition we are neighbouring countries with very similar culture and language, and used to work closed with each other.  Although Energy+ is a Norwegian initiative, it is not necessary that Norway leads the Energy+ activities in every country. 
• ADB: Energy+ programme has a good cooperation with ADB in Asia.  In Nepal, Norway works very closely with ADB on developing transmission infrastructure and improving access to clean and renewable energy.  ADB also leads the On-grid thematic group for the development partners.
• UNDP: UNDP already has a long history of working to improve access to renewable energy in Nepal and past UNDP programs have been pioneers in advocating for energy access in rural communities in Nepal. UNDP is a stakeholder in the SE4ALL initiative by the UN Secretary General, and has been instrumental in our communication with the National Planning Commission and other Ministry leading up to this signing event. 
• Gov. Of  Nepal: Finally, it is essential to have the Government of Nepal leading and taking ownership to improve access to clean energy and embarking on a low carbon growth strategy.  I see that the government of Nepal has put in place an elaborate National Coordination Mechanism to guide the implementation of these global initiatives.  I am very grateful for that.          

 

• I am aware that other development partners have been involved in early discussions and are interested to join in.  Norway wants to assure you that this is not an exclusive list of Development Partners coming together.  Energy + programme wants to contribute to coordinate efforts of the Development partners to address the development needs of Nepal in the energy sector. Therefore, we look forward to others joining this group in the future. 
• Norway is working to increase support to the energy sector in Nepal.  We are going to emphasize that support when the Norwegian Foreign Minister is visiting Nepal the first week of November.
• Based on experience we know that public sector financing alone is not enough to achieve the goals of universal access.  Nepal needs private sector investment.  Norway would like to work with the Government of Nepal and other development partners to improve the overall enabling environment to improve the private investment climate.  The recent signing of the Power Trade Agreement (PTA) between India and Nepal and the conclusion of a project agreement with a major hydropower investor in the last weeks are very encouraging.  We would like to be part of that development.
• Norway looks forward to continuing its good work with the Government of Nepal and other Development Partners to plan the future course of action for these two global initiatives in Nepal.

Thank you