NTPC to supply 300 MW electricity to Bangladesh

India’s biggest electricity producer NTPC Ltd has won tender to supply 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity to power-starved Bangladesh for 15 years. The tender was floated by Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) for supply of 500 MW power from India for short term (2018-2019) and long term ( 2020 2033).

Key Facts

The supply of 300MW to Bangladesh is part of India’s strategy of playing a key role in creating a new energy security architecture for its neighbours. It will help NTPC earn Rs.900 crore in annual revenue. It will help NTPC to keep pace with fast-changing power sector wherein absence of fresh demand for electricity is weighing down the entire power sector. India is currently exporting approximately 600 MW electricity to Bangladesh.

Significance

Fostering cross-border energy trade is an important part of India’s South Asia-focused neighbourhood-first policy. It also has been articulated in NITI Aayog’s draft national energy policy. India already has power grid links with Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh and is building power projects in three countries. It is also planning to develop power transmission links with Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
India has also been pursuing closer ties in energy sector with Bangladesh, helping markets to integrate. State-run Indian Oil Corp. is exploring long-term deals with Bangladeshi companies for supplying LPG and other petroleum products. Moreover, there is also plan to set up large LPG import terminal in partnership with local companies, allowing large vessels to arrive in Chittagong port of Bangladesh.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2018