"Watt’s Up, South Asia? Nepal’s Green Energy Sparks a New Era with Bangladesh via India"

Image Source: Youtube

In a first of its kind regional energy cooperation in South Asia, Nepal has begun selling 40 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Bangladesh via India's grid from June 15, 2025, midnight. This is the commercial rollout of a new trilateral energy trade agreement among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh—a first in regional integration and integration of clean energy.

Key Highlights

Start of Export: Nepal began exporting 40 MW of electricity to Bangladesh from June 15, 2025, via the Indian transmission line. The export shall be done annually during the monsoon season of June 15 to November 15 for five years.
Trilateral Agreement: The agreement was reached on 3rd October 2024 in Kathmandu, and the agreement was signed by the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), India's NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam, and the Bangladesh Power Development Board.
Transmission Pathway: Nepal's Dhalkebar substation exports power to India through the 400 kV Dhalkebar–Muzaffarpur transmission line, and then to Bangladesh through the Berhampur–Bheramara transmission line.
Historic First: It is the first extended case of Nepal selling electricity to Bangladesh, following a one-day pilot last year that was successful. The project taps Nepal's monsoon hydropower surplus to supply Bangladesh's energy deficit.
Price and Payment: Nepal will be paid at $0.064 per kilowatt-hour by Bangladesh for the electricity. Payment for last year's pilot export will also be made in addition to this year's.
Regional Relevance: The pact outlines India's strategic position as a regional energy center, guaranteeing cross-border electricity exchange and sub-regional power interconnections.
Inauguration: The power flow was inaugurated by top ministers of the three countries, referred to as a "landmark feat in regional energy cooperation" and an impetus to the sustainable development of South Asia.

This historic step not only improves energy security and economic ties between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh but also sets a precedent for future regional cooperation in clean energy.

Source: The Hindu Business Line