Overview

The Upper Modi Hydropower Project is a run-of-the-river (RoR) hydroelectric plant located in the Parbat District of western Nepal. Built on the Modi River, a glacial-fed tributary of the Kali Gandaki River, this project contributes clean, renewable energy to Nepal’s national grid and is part of the strategic development of the Modi River cascade system.

• Installed Capacity: 14 MW

• Commissioned: 2012

• Project Type: Run-of-the-river

• River: Modi River

• Location: Deopur, Parbat District

• Developer: United Modi Hydropower Ltd. (IPP)

Project Highlights

• Gross Head: ~245 meters

• Design Discharge: Approx. 7.26 m³/s

• Turbines: 2 x 7 MW horizontal-axis Francis turbines

• Annual Energy Generation: ~92 GWh

• Transmission Line: 132 kV line to Modi substation, later connected to Baglung and Kushma hubs

Significance of the Project

1. Contribution to Energy Independence

Upper Modi helps meet peak electricity demand in the western and central regions of Nepal, particularly during the dry season when energy from run-of-the-river projects declines.

2. Private Sector Role

Developed by United Modi Hydropower Ltd., the project showcases the effectiveness of Nepal’s IPP model, attracting both domestic investors and local community participation.

3. Cascade Development Potential

The Modi River has strong hydropower potential, and the Upper Modi plant is part of a broader cascade system that includes:

• Lower Modi-1 (10 MW)

• Lower Modi-2 (20 MW)

• Modi Khola Hydropower Project (14.8 MW)

Technical Specifications

Environmental and Social Considerations

• Low Environmental Impact: Run-of-the-river design avoids large-scale displacement or habitat loss.

• Community Benefits: Local residents received employment, infrastructure improvements (roads, bridges), and access to electricity.

• EIA Compliance: Approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) implemented with catchment conservation measures.

Challenges

• Monsoon Flash Floods: Like many Himalayan rivers, the Modi River is prone to flooding during heavy rains.

• Sedimentation: High silt load during monsoon can reduce turbine efficiency.

• Transmission Bottlenecks: Grid access can be limited during peak generation periods, especially when multiple Modi River plants operate simultaneously.

Interesting Facts

• The Modi River originates from Annapurna South Glacier, making its flow highly reliable during post-monsoon and dry seasons.

• The project was funded entirely by Nepali investors, including public shareholders through the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE).

• The area surrounding the powerhouse is rich in biodiversity and tourism potential, near popular trekking routes in Myagdi and Annapurna regions.

Future Outlook

• Planned automation and digital control systems to improve performance

• Potential integration with downstream projects for water reuse and efficiency optimization

• Hybrid models (solar + hydro) under consideration for peak-hour balancing

Conclusion

The Upper Modi Hydropower Project is a model of efficient mid-size hydropower development in Nepal’s private sector. Its success has catalyzed further investment in the Modi River basin, helping diversify Nepal’s energy supply, create local jobs, and power economic growth sustainably. As Nepal aims to become a clean energy exporter, strategic projects like Upper Modi are key to that vision.