New Delhi: For the first time, three South Asian countries collaborated in a transmission network, with Nepal successfully exporting power to Bangladesh through an Indian grid on Friday (November 15).
The energy export was virtually inaugurated by Union urban affairs minister Manohar Lal, Nepal’s energy minister Deepak Khadka, and Bangladesh’s energy advisor Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan.
The tripartite power sales agreement between NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam, Nepal Electricity Authority and Bangladesh Power Development Board was signed on October 3, 2024 in Kathmandu.
Nepal will export 40 megawatts of power to Bangladesh as per the agreement.
“The start of this power flow from Nepal to Bangladesh through India is expected to boost sub-regional connectivity in the power sector,” the Union external affairs ministry said in a press release.
“The Indian government had announced its decision to facilitate the first trilateral power transaction during the visit of former prime Minister of Nepal, Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ to India from 31 May to 3 June 2023. During the visit, both sides had expressed their commitment towards greater sub-regional cooperation, including in the energy sector, which would lead to increased inter-linkages between the economies for mutual benefit of all stakeholders,” it added.
“This milestone is a reflection of our shared vision for a sustainable and interconnected energy future in South Asia,” Khadka said.
Nepal will transmit electricity through the 400KV Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur line in India, the Kathmandu Post reported.
The export that started Friday afternoon will last only until Friday midnight. As per the agreement, Nepal and Bangladesh will trade power only between June 15-November 15. Hence, the three countries worked to complete at least one round of power export during this season.
