Through two high-capacity 400 kV transmission lines, Nepal would be able to buy up to 1,400 MW of power from India and export up to 1,650 MW to India, as per an agreement between the two countries to greatly improve cross-border electricity commerce. In light of the expanding strategic alliance in the energy sector, the decision was made at the 13th Nepal-India Joint Steering Committee (JSC) meeting in Pokhara, Nepal.
The Dhalkebar-Sitamarhi and Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur 400 kV cross-border transmission lines will be used in the updated power trading agreement. Electricity transfer capacity between the two nations is set to grow significantly with the near-completion of the Dhalkebar-Sitamarhi transmission line, which will join the already existing Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur line.
Jointly chaired by Sarita Dawadi of Nepal’s Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation and Pankaj Kumar of India’s Ministry of Power, the meeting examined developments in the two countries’ energy cooperation. The previous restriction on power trade over the current transmission infrastructure was 1,000 MW for imports and 1,100 MW for exports. The two sides have now agreed to expand this commerce.
The Chameliya-Jauljibi 220 kV double-circuit transmission line, which aims to be finished by December 2028, has also received approval from Nepal and India in its Detailed Project Report (DPR). Also, the two nations have decided to move quickly to establish a joint venture between the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) to build the 400 kV transmission lines between Inaruwa and New Purnea, as well as Dododhara (New Lamki) and Bareilly.
Additional power exports from Nepal to India are anticipated to be possible by 2034–35 thanks to the Motihari–Nijgadh 400 kV transmission line, whose DPR was also authorised at the meeting. The use of High Temperature Low Sag (HTLS) conductors to upgrade the Muzaffarpur-Dhalkebar transmission line and boost its capacity was also supported. The planned 400 kV transmission line between Lucknow and Kohalpur (Lamahi) is still undergoing technical study.
The New Butwal-Gorakhpur 400 kV transmission line was also reviewed by officials. This line will run at 220 kV initially till the New Butwal substation is finished in December 2027. As part of the temporary agreement, the connection will allow Nepal to import 130 MW of power and export 200 MW. The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is providing funding to help build the project’s Nepal division.
With this new deal, India and Nepal have taken a giant leap forward in their energy cooperation, which will increase transmission capacity, promote renewable energy integration, and fortify cross-border electricity commerce.
Image: Enewspolar
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