A research study led by Assistant Professor Bharosh Kumar Yadav from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Purwanchal Campus, Institute of Engineering (IOE), Tribhuvan University, has achieved a significant academic milestone with the publication of a research article entitled “Feasibility Study of Solar and Wind Plants for Sustainable Energy Supply in Dharan Industrial Estate” in the International Journal of Low-Carbon Technologies, a peer-reviewed international journal published by Oxford University Press.

The research originated from a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) final-year project conducted in Assistant Professor Bharosh Kumar Yadav’s research laboratory at Purwanchal Campus. The study was carried out by final-year students Nikesh Das, Niranjan Sah, Sagar Pathak, Rasmita Gautam, and Pawan Sah under his supervision, in collaboration with researchers from Rajarshi Janak University, Nepal, and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Patna, India.

The published study evaluated the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of solar and wind energy systems for the Dharan Industrial Estate using advanced simulation tools, including PVsyst, HELIOSCOPE, and HOMER. The research revealed that solar photovoltaic technology is the most suitable renewable energy option for the industrial estate, while wind energy was found to be economically unfeasible due to low wind speeds in the study area.

Major outcomes of the study include:

• Design of an optimized 2.533 MW solar PV system for the Dharan Industrial Estate.
• Comprehensive energy–economic–environmental (3E) assessment.
• Net Present Value (NPV) of approximately USD 2.99 million.
• Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 38.13%.
• Return on Investment (ROI) of 302.1%.
• Payback period of 5.8 years.
• Annual reduction of approximately 2,407 metric tons of CO₂ emissions.

The findings provide practical guidance for industries, policymakers, and energy planners seeking to accelerate industrial decarbonization and renewable energy adoption in Nepal. The study further supports national and global efforts toward sustainable industrial development and low-carbon energy transitions.

This publication demonstrates how undergraduate research conducted at Purwanchal Campus can contribute to high-impact international scientific literature. It also reflects the growing research collaboration among Tribhuvan University, Rajarshi Janak University, and NIT Patna, strengthening regional academic partnerships and innovation in renewable energy research.

Publication in an internationally recognized Oxford University Press journal highlights the quality, originality, and global relevance of research conducted by faculty members and students of the Institute of Engineering. This achievement serves as a proud moment for Purwanchal Campus, IOE, and Tribhuvan University.

Authors: Bharosh Kumar Yadav, Nikesh Das, Niranjan Sah, Sagar Pathak, Rasmita Gautam, Pawan Sah, Manoj Kumar Yadav, and Ritesh Kumar

Journal: International Journal of Low-Carbon Technologies (Oxford University Press)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ijlct/ctag03