Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) has earned a remarkable income of over Rs 10.7 crore in just 24 hours by exporting electricity to neighboring countries India and Bangladesh.
According to NEA spokesperson Rajan Dhakal, Nepal exported a total of 16,150 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity on Thursday, resulting in this massive earning.
Bangladesh Buying Power at Fixed Rate
Out of the total export, 40 MW of electricity was sold to Bangladesh at a fixed rate of 6.4 US cents per unit. This long-term agreement provides a stable income source for NEA from the eastern neighbor.
India’s Price Depends on Market Demand
When it comes to India, electricity prices are not fixed. Instead, the rates vary based on market demand and supply conditions. This means NEA can earn more during high demand, especially in peak seasons.
Average Rate: Rs 6.62 per Unit
On Thursday, the average price for exported electricity stood at Rs 6.62 per unit, leading to a daily income of around Rs 10.7 crore, said spokesperson Dhakal. However, he also clarified that daily figures may fluctuate depending on quantity and pricing.
Not All is Bright: Policy Hurdles Ahead
While this income surge is promising, there are still challenges ahead. NEA’s plan to purchase 5,000 MW of electricity from private producers is reportedly stalled due to unclear government policies, raising concerns about the future of large hydropower investments.
What Lies Ahead?
With potential earnings like this, Nepal’s energy export sector shows tremendous promise. However, for consistent growth, policy clarity and long-term planning will be crucial.
