In a landmark development for regional energy cooperation, Nepal has officially started exporting 40 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Bangladesh through India’s power transmission network. This marks Nepal’s first commercial electricity export to Bangladesh, positioning the Himalayan nation as a rising player in South Asia’s energy market.
Trilateral Energy Partnership in Action
The power transfer follows a tripartite agreement signed on October 3, 2024, between the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), and India’s NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN).
- Export Duration: June 15 to November 15, 2025
- Transmission Route: 400-kV Dhalkebar (Nepal) → Muzaffarpur & Baharampur (India) → Bheramara (Bangladesh)
- Tariff: 6.4 US cents per unit
Economic & Strategic Significance
- Nepal expects to earn approximately Rs 129 crore by exporting 146.88 million units of electricity during the five-month period.
- The move strengthens India’s role as a regional energy hub, facilitating cross-border electricity trade with Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
- Bangladesh has committed to importing electricity from Nepal for the next five years, boosting its energy security amid rising demand.
Hydropower-Led Growth in Nepal
With over 3,000 MW of installed capacity, 95% of which is hydropower, Nepal is rapidly scaling up its renewable energy exports. Indian firms like SJVN are also investing in large-scale projects such as the 900 MW Arun-3 hydropower plant.
This milestone not only enhances regional energy integration but also supports clean energy goals across South Asia.
