On Shrawan 02, 2082, 19 fourth-year Electrical Engineering students (BEL 2078), accompanied by Er. Gopal Chandra Joshi, Er. Gaurab Tamrakar, and Mr. Aayush Bhatta, visited the South Lalitpur Rural Electric Co-op Ltd. Guided by Chairperson Mr. Gobinda Prasad Bajgain, the visit aimed to explore the status and management of rural electrification in Nepal.

The journey began with an inspection of pole-mounted distribution transformers (25 kVA), where students studied voltage, current, power losses, and maintenance practices like oil checks and earthing. Safety measures, including fencing, were also observed to prevent accidents.

At a local dairy industry, a key electricity consumer, the group noted the reliance on stable power for pasteurization, refrigeration, and packaging. Energy-efficient equipment highlighted the role of reliable electricity in boosting local economies.

The visit to the Malta Substation in Bagmati Gaupalika showcased a 33/11 kV facility serving multiple villages. Students examined circuit breakers, transformers, and modern monitoring systems designed to ensure reliability and minimize outages.

At the co-operative’s headquarters, Mr. Bajgain detailed its operations, serving over 7,500 households through a community-driven model. Challenges like funding constraints, aging infrastructure, and load management were discussed, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions.

Key learnings included hands-on insights into transformer operations, substation design, and the economic impact of electrification. The cooperatives model underscored the importance of community engagement, while the dairy visits highlighted electricity’s role in local growth. Challenges such as high maintenance costs and limited funding were identified as critical barriers.

The visit inspired students to contribute to Nepal’s rural electrification advancements, reinforcing their theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The cooperatives inclusive approach and Mr. Bajgain’s insights emphasized sustainable energy solutions.