Simbuwa Khola Hydroelectric Project (Skhep)

(70.3 MW) Taplejung, Koshi, Nepal

Public hearing of SKHEP (70.3 MW)

The Simbuwa Khola Hydroelectric Project (SKHEP) is a 70.3 MW run-of-river project located in Taplejung District, Koshi Province, Nepal. Developed by Simbuwa Remit Hydro Limited (SRHL), the project harnesses the flow of the Simbuwa Khola and benefits from a high head due to the region’s favorable topography. SRHL is a subsidiary of Hydroelectricity Investment Company Limited (HIDCL), a government-owned entity dedicated to advancing hydropower development in Nepal. The company’s unique investment model focuses on channeling remittances from Nepali workers abroad into national hydroelectric projects.

Client : Simbuwa Remit Hydro Limited (funded by – Nepal Government)

Scope of Works : Preparation of Supplementay Environmental Impact Assessment, Preparation of Land Acquisition, Compensation Plan

Project Features : The major structures of the project are located on the left bank of Simbuwa Khola. It comprises a weir, under-sluice and appurtenant structures, river diversion tunnel (located on the right bank of Simbuwa Khola), side intake, approach tunnel, a 105 m long underground desanding basin with two chambers hopper type, a headrace tunnel of 4.41 km length, which will lead to a 37.5 m high surge tank. The design flow from the surge shaft will be directed towards the underground powerhouse through a 2.68 km long underground – penstock and pressure shaft. The powerhouse is underground, and is equipped with three Pelton units. Water will be released back to the Tamor river through a 287-m-long tailrace tunnel.