A promising new chapter is unfolding in South Asia’s energy story! Using India as a crucial link, Nepal has began exporting 40 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Bangladesh. This significant export is a big step forward for the region, showcasing how neighboring countries can work together to meet their growing energy needs. Both Bangladesh and India are experiencing rapid growth, and their demand for reliable power is increasing day by day. Finding new, sustainable ways to acquire electricity is therefore extremely important for their continued development. Nepal, often called the “water tower” of South Asia, possesses an immense, largely untapped potential for hydropower. Along with Bhutan, Nepal could become a major producer of clean energy, capable of lighting up millions of homes and fueling industries across the region. This recent power export deal is a clear sign that this long-held dream is steadily becoming a reality, bringing sustainable and environmentally friendly energy closer to everyone. It’s a perfect situation for both sides: Bangladesh receives a steady and essential supply of green energy, and Nepal profits by selling its excess clean electricity. This type of cooperation helps both nations to grow and develop in a more sustainable and prosperous manner, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, even with this impressive progress, there are still some important aspects that need careful consideration for future scalability. Currently, the transfer of power between Nepal and Bangladesh heavily relies on specific bilateral agreements and India’s willingness to facilitate these transactions. While India has been cooperative, many hope for a more comprehensive, regional plan that allows for easier and more widespread energy trade without the need for too many separate, case-by-case deals. Regional bodies, such as BIMSTEC, have been working towards creating a master plan for connecting power grids across South Asia. Yet, the path to a fully integrated and smoothly functioning energy market is still ongoing. There isn’t yet a strong, unified set of rules, a central market operator, or a standardized system for energy trading that applies to all countries involved. To truly unlock the full potential of regional power trade and make it even more reliable in the long term, countries need to deepen their trust and collaborate on large-scale infrastructure projects. This means investing in more extensive power lines and establishing clear, transparent regulatory frameworks that everyone agrees upon. When nations view energy cooperation as a cornerstone for building a stronger, more interconnected South Asia, rather than merely a political or transactional issue, that’s when significant, lasting progress can be achieved. The recent Nepal-Bangladesh power export is an excellent and positive start, demonstrating that with continued cooperation, shared vision, and smart strategic planning, South Asia can indeed power its future with abundant clean energy, lighting up new opportunities and fostering prosperity for all its people.
