MCA-Nepal signs $154 million deals to build high-voltage transmission lines

Kathmandu, August 14 — The Millennium Challenge Account-Nepal (MCA-Nepal) has signed two major contracts worth a total of US$154.5 million to build 180 kilometers of high-voltage transmission lines under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact.

Following an international bidding process, the Ratmate–New Damauli section (Lot 2) was awarded to Angelique-Skipper JV, while the New Damauli–New Butwal section (Lot 3) went to WAIBA-SALASAR JV. The contracts include the design, installation, testing, and commissioning of the transmission lines.

The signing ceremony in Kathmandu was attended by MCA-Nepal Executive Director Khadga Bahadur Bisht, MCC Acting Deputy Vice President John Wingle, U.S. Embassy Nepal’s Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks, Finance Ministry Secretary Ghanashyam Upadhyaya, and representatives from the Nepal Electricity Authority.

Wingle said the agreements highlight the United States’ commitment to supporting Nepal’s development goals, improving electricity supply, and boosting regional power trade. Meeks added that the project represents a strong U.S.–Nepal partnership aimed at creating reliable infrastructure and accelerating long-term growth.

Secretary Upadhyaya assured the government’s continued support, while Bisht emphasized MCA-Nepal’s commitment to delivering the project successfully.

The MCC Nepal Compact is a landmark $697 million investment in Nepal’s economic development. It focuses on strengthening power transmission and road maintenance to improve connectivity, encourage private investment, and promote cross-border energy trade.

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