India and Nepal are holding important energy talks on July 14-15 to discuss their ongoing cooperation in the power sector and explore new opportunities in electricity trade, renewable energy and cross-border power connections. The meetings are being held under the Joint Working Group (JWG) and Joint Steering Committee (JSC) frameworks.

India’s delegation is led by Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal, while Nepal’s team includes senior officials from its Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation. The talks will focus on improving energy cooperation between the two countries and resolving issues related to electricity exchange.

Trading of power among the two nations would also be one of those issues that would play a crucial role during the discussions. The two countries are keen on increasing power trade between themselves because this can prove to be extremely beneficial for both of them. During the meetings, hydropower project like Phukot Karnali Hydropower Project that is backed by NHPC would also find mention.

India and Nepal have been building up their energy relationship by means of treaties that will enhance energy transactions and establish an energy grid in the region. The cooperation is likely to assist Nepal in its hydropower development as well as help India in its diversified clean energy portfolio.

The discussions come at a time when both the countries are emphasizing the need for the development of renewable energy and energy security. The improved power connections between India and Nepal may play an important role in better use of renewable energy sources.