Hydropower & Energy Advocate

Hydropower & Energy Advocate — Pioneer Law Associates

Pioneer Law Associates is recruiting a mid-level Advocate (अधिवक्ता) for its market-leading Hydropower & Energy practice at its Putalisadak, Kathmandu offices. Nepal's hydropower sector — with an estimated potential of 83,000 MW — is the country's most significant investment frontier, and Pioneer is the undisputed leader in hydropower project finance and regulatory advisory.

The Advocate will work on power purchase agreements (PPAs) with the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), project finance documentation for hydropower projects under the Electricity Act 2049, and licensing applications to the Department of Electricity Development. This role sits at the intersection of energy law, banking and finance, and environmental regulation — critical practice areas as Nepal pursues its ambitious hydropower development agenda.

• Draft and negotiate power purchase agreements (PPAs) with the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)
• Advise on hydropower licensing under the Electricity Act 2049 and survey/generation licence applications
• Structure project finance transactions including security packages and inter-creditor arrangements
• Conduct environmental and social due diligence under the Environment Protection Act 2076
• Coordinate with the Department of Electricity Development, Nepal Investment Board, and NEA
• Advise international and domestic investors on hydropower sector entry strategies

• Advocate licensed by the Nepal Bar Association (NBA) with 4–7 years' post-admission experience
• Knowledge of the Electricity Act 2049, Water Resources Act 2049, and Environment Protection Act 2076
• Experience with hydropower project documentation including PPAs, concession agreements, and EPC contracts
• Understanding of project finance and banking documentation under the Banking and Financial Institution Act 2073
• Familiarity with the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and Department of Electricity Development processes
• LL.B. from a recognised Nepali or international university
• Strong English drafting skills for international lender documentation