Kathmandu University • Since 2012

Powering Nepal's energy transition with science and partnership.

The Energy Systems & Technology Research Laboratory (ESTRL) advances resilient energy systems, clean technologies, and human-centred solutions for a carbon-neutral future.

Explore Our Research Meet the Team

4+

Active projects

12+

Researchers

5

Global partners

Hydrogen energy research at ESTRL
Smart grid and storage systems
Renewable systems at Kathmandu University
Leadership Insight

Message from the Lab Director

Vision, priorities, and commitments guiding the Energy Systems & Technology Research Laboratory.

Team Leader Bivek Baral
"At ESTRL, we advance energy systems research and energy-efficient building technologies to create sustainable solutions that will shape Nepal’s energy future. Our applied research focuses on critical areas including advanced battery systems, solar drying technology, electric vehicle (EV) integration, and e-cooking solutions. Our work is rooted in collaboration, local relevance, and global standards."
Prof. Bivek Baral | Lab Director & Principal Investigator Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kathmandu University
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Who We Are

About ESTRL

Leading research in energy systems and technology to create sustainable solutions for tomorrow

Hydrogen energy research at ESTRL Smart grid and storage systems at ESTRL Renewable systems at Kathmandu University

Our Mission

To foster innovation in energy systems through research and education, creating solutions that support sustainable development and enhance quality of life for communities.

Our Vision

To be a leading academic research hub, recognized for advancing knowledge, cultivating innovation, and contributing to a sustainable and resilient energy future.

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Second-Life Batteries & BESS

Repurposing second-life batteries and advancing Battery Energy Storage Systems for resilient microgrids and communities.

Solar Dryers & Thermal Comfort

Research and development in solar dryers, e-cooking solutions, and thermal comfort technologies tailored to Himalayan climates.

Energy Efficient Buildings

Smart building design, data-driven energy management, and green architecture for lower-carbon campuses and cities.

People

Our Team

Meet our dedicated researchers and experts driving innovation in energy systems

Team Member

Prof. Bivek Baral

Team Leader & Principal Investigator

PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 15+ years of experience in energy systems

Team Member Gokarna Poudel

Niranjan Basakoti

Assistant Professor

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Team Member Gokarna Poudel

Er. Gokarna Poudel

Assistant Professor

Department of Mechanical Engineering

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Flagship Work

Research Projects

Explore our current and completed research projects in sustainable energy

Solar Panel Project Ongoing

Solar Dryer Innovation

Designing modular solar dryers to reduce post-harvest loss and strengthen local value chains.

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Electrical Equipment Ongoing

Second-Life EV Batteries

Deploying repurposed EV batteries for community energy storage, balancing cost and reliability.

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Renewable Energy Completed

Nepal Oil Corporation Study

Delivered a techno-economic roadmap for integrating renewable energy systems into national fuel infrastructure.

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Knowledge

Publications

Our research contributions to the scientific community

"Optimization of Solar Microgrid Systems in Rural Nepal: A Machine Learning Approach"

Journal of Renewable Energy Systems · 2024

Research Team, ESTRL

This paper presents a novel machine learning approach for optimizing solar microgrid systems specifically designed for rural Nepalese communities...

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"Smart Grid Integration Challenges in Developing Countries: A Case Study of Nepal"

IEEE Power Systems Conference · 2023

Research Team, ESTRL

An analysis of the technical and economic challenges faced when integrating smart grid technologies in developing nations...

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"Wind Resource Assessment and Energy Potential in the Himalayan Region"

Renewable Energy Journal · 2023

Research Team, ESTRL

Comprehensive analysis of wind energy potential across different altitudes and geographical regions in Nepal...

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"Advanced Battery Management Systems for Renewable Energy Storage"

Authors: Research Team, ESTRL • Energy Storage Systems Review • 2022

Review of current battery management technologies and proposal for improved systems for renewable energy applications...

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Latest Updates

News & Notices

Stay updated with our latest research developments and announcements

Research News

ESTRL Receives Grant for Solar Research

Our laboratory has been awarded a significant research grant to advance solar energy technologies in Nepal...

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Conference News

International Conference Participation

Team members presented research findings at the International Renewable Energy Conference...

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Lab Equipment

New Equipment Installation

State-of-the-art testing equipment has been installed to enhance our research capabilities...

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Connect

Contact Us

We welcome research collaborations, academic inquiries, and partnership opportunities.

Address

Energy Systems & Technology Research Laboratory (ESTRL)
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Kathmandu University
Dhulikhel, Kavre, Nepal

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Office Hours

Sunday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: Closed

Note: University holidays may affect operating hours.

For joint proposals, MoUs, or lab visits, please include your institution name, research area, and timeframe in your email.