Kathmandu: A comprehensive multi-party agreement has been successfully formulated to enable the supply of electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh. This breakthrough agreement involves collaborative efforts among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh, as confirmed by government authorities.

The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation has officially classified this accord as a "preliminary agreement," uniting the interests of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. In the initial phase of implementation, Bangladesh is slated to acquire 40 megawatts of electricity from Nepal.

While the initial volume of 40 MW may appear modest, its significance transcends its numerical value, being emblematic in nature. The decision to export Nepal's electricity to a third country marks a pivotal milestone, resonating deeply with stakeholders. Ganesh Karki, President of Nepal's Independent Power Producers' Association, lauds this agreement as a momentous accomplishment.

Facilitating the transmission of Nepal's power to Bangladesh will be the responsibility of India's NVVN, designated as the nodal agency by the Indian government. Prabal Adhikari of Nepal Electricity Authority reveals that the preliminary power supply agreement for Bangladesh was effectively negotiated through email exchanges among the three participating nations. Resolving remaining intricacies of the agreement is anticipated in the near term.

The formal signing of the agreement will be conducted in person by officials from the respective countries, signifying their commitment. This ceremonial signing is expected to occur in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead, Bangladesh has ambitious strategic goals, aspiring to procure 9,000 megawatts of electricity from Nepal by 2040. Committed to clean energy pursuits, Bangladesh also expresses keen interest in investing in significant projects within Nepal's energy sector.

Notably, the fifth session of the Nepal-Bangladesh energy secretary-level joint steering committee, convened on May 16 in Bangladesh, laid the foundation for power trade relations between the two nations. This meeting culminated in an agreement to advance the execution of a collaboration involving Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (India), and Bangladesh Power Development Board.

Nepal has outlined its goal to finalize the comprehensive agreement by the conclusion of August. As a gesture of fostering bilateral power trade relations, Nepal aims to supply monsoon-generated electricity to Bangladesh.

A joint secretary at the energy ministry confirmed that preparations towards this end are in full swing, underscoring the commitment to this landmark energy collaboration.