Yunus for S Asia grid to harness Nepal's hydropower

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has proposed establishing a South Asia energy grid to share hydropower generated by Nepal and Bhutan. 

Speaking at a Social Business Group meeting during the COP29 climate conference in Baku, Professor Yunus highlighted the untapped hydroelectric potential in the Himalayan region and the lack of a power grid connecting Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan as barriers to energy access, according to the Chief Adviser's Press Wing.

Nepali officials estimate the country could generate up to 40,000 megawatts of hydroelectricity, which could help reduce fossil fuel dependence in countries like India and Bangladesh. 

“Bangladesh could easily import this hydroelectricity, as Nepal is only 40 miles away. The power would be both renewable and cost-effective,” Yunus stated, calling for a cooperative South Asian energy grid.

At COP29, Yunus emphasized Bangladesh’s focus on water management as central to its environmental policy. “Water is our primary environmental issue. Effective water management will support both our ecosystems and economic growth,” he noted.

The Chief Adviser also discussed the Interim Government’s youth development initiatives, including an upcoming youth festival in January alongside the annual T20 BPL cricket tournament, expected to feature FIFA President Gianni Infantino and IOC President Thomas Bach. 

A women’s football tournament is also in the works. “Our goal is to bring this festival to communities across the country,” Yunus said.

In his address, Yunus touched on the government’s reform efforts following the recent July-August mass uprising that ended a 15-year dictatorship, the COP29 priorities, and Bangladesh's ongoing negotiations around carbon credits.