Dhaka, Nov 16, (V7N) -In a landmark move toward regional energy integration, Bangladesh has officially begun receiving electricity from Nepal, transmitted through the Indian grid. This marks the first-ever trilateral power transaction between the three nations, heralding a new era in South Asian energy cooperation.

The milestone was celebrated during a virtual inauguration ceremony attended by key officials, including Bangladesh’s Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Indian Minister for Power Manohar Lal Khattar, and Nepal’s Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Dipak Khadka.

The New Energy Corridor

The transaction, which initially involves Bangladesh receiving up to 40 MW of electricity from Nepal, represents a significant step forward in regional energy connectivity. It follows the signing of a tripartite agreement on October 3, 2024, between the Nepal Electricity Authority, Bangladesh Power Development Board, and NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam of India.

Officials highlighted that this agreement is expected to bolster energy security in Bangladesh, enhance regional cooperation, and contribute to the growing share of renewable energy in Bangladesh’s power mix.

A Vision for a South Asian Power Grid

The development is seen as an important step towards the creation of a South Asian electricity grid, an idea championed by Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. This ambitious vision seeks to enable a seamless power exchange system within the region, fostering stronger economic and energy linkages between South Asian countries.

By enabling the cross-border flow of electricity, this trilateral arrangement is expected to strengthen economic ties and energy resilience across the region, paving the way for further cooperation in the power sector.