India and Sri Lanka Deepen Power Sector Cooperation

India and Sri Lanka reviewed bilateral cooperation in the power sector at a meeting in New Delhi, focusing on interconnection projects and renewable development. The Indian delegation was led by Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal, while the Sri Lankan delegation was led by Anura Karunathilake, Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation and Minister of Energy of Sri Lanka. The ministers assessed progress on existing initiatives and reiterated commitments to enhance regional energy security.

Officials examined the proposed India–Sri Lanka high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnection and the Sampur Solar Power Project, and explored avenues to expand cross-border electricity trade and transmission infrastructure. The Indian side shared experience in transmission system development through the Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) framework as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Discussions encompassed renewable energy integration and capacity building to support the clean energy transition in the region. They discussed timelines for project milestones and potential avenues for mobilising finance and technical assistance.

Both sides reviewed mechanisms for cooperation and set out priorities for sustainable development and mutual support in meeting energy needs. The engagement addressed technical, regulatory and financing dimensions of joint projects, and considered measures to streamline project implementation and stakeholder coordination. Officials noted the strategic importance of enhancing grid resilience and facilitating investment in transmission and generation.

Senior officials accompanying the ministers included Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, and representatives from the Government of India, together with the Sri Lankan high commissioner to India and other senior delegates. The meeting sought to translate policy commitments into actionable steps and timelines for project delivery. Both parties committed to maintain dialogue and pursue further cooperation to advance shared energy goals and implementation efforts. They agreed to convene technical working groups and expedite feasibility studies to inform implementation timelines and investor engagement.

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