Bhote Koshi Power Plant

The Bhote Koshi Power Plant (also known as Upper Bhote Koshi Project) is a run-of-the-river power plant in Sindhulpalchok District, Nepal. It was constructed between 1997 and 2000 with power generation starting in January 2001. The project cost about US$98 million. The majority of finances was provided by Panda Energy International. The dam, located at 27.93889°N, 85.945°W, diverts water downstream into a 3300 m long head race tunnel which terminates into two penstocks that supply the two 22 MW Francis turbine-generators with water. The drop in elevation between the dam and power plant affords a normal hydraulic head of 135.5 m.

The installed capacity of the project is 44 MW, whereas it has a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Nepal Electricity Authority for generation of 36MW maximum. The PPA dictates how much the project can generate for each month of the Nepali Calendar. During monsoon season (about three months each year) Bhote Koshi can operate at full installed capacity, with excess water still being spilt. During winter season however, power generation from the plant decreases drastically due to low river flows.