SAFIR Has Initiated South Asia Power Link Study
The regional forum aims to strengthen electricity trade through a review of cross-border transmission networks.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Utilities
Live Poll
Do you believe cross-border energy trade agreements between neighboring countries help improve your country's energy security?
The South Asia Forum for Infrastructure Regulation (SAFIR) has launched a new study to assess existing and planned cross-border electricity transmission links. This initiative seeks to improve regional energy sufficiency and evaluate the feasibility of a potential India-Sri Lanka subsea power connection.
Why it matters
The study aims to bolster regional electricity trade and enhance grid connectivity across South Asia. Strengthening these transmission links is critical for ensuring long-term energy security among member nations.
The study will be completed within 120 days of the project agreement. SAFIR has operated since its 1999 establishment in New Delhi to coordinate infrastructure regulation.
The players
South Asia Forum for Infrastructure Regulation
Headquartered in New Delhi, this organization facilitates cooperation among energy regulators in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The details
The study will review both current and future transmission infrastructure to assess technical, economic, and regulatory aspects of power transfer. A key objective includes developing a strategic roadmap for regional network expansion.
Timeline
SAFIR was established in 1999.
The application deadline for the consultant study was September 18, 2026.
The study initiation was announced on September 19, 2026.
The study is slated for completion 120 days after the agreement is signed.
Market Landscape
This study follows the precedent established by the South Asia Forum for Infrastructure Regulation's regional power trade framework to integrate national grids. It marks a significant effort to consolidate the region's disparate utility networks into a more cohesive and efficient market.
The study's potential to improve regional power grid efficiency could eventually lead to more stable electricity pricing for consumers in the participating nations. However, there are no immediate changes to local utility services or consumer costs as the project remains in the planning phase.
The takeaway
Reliable regional power transmission is a foundational requirement for the economic development of South Asian markets. Future progress will depend on the successful implementation of the roadmap developed during this 120-day study period.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Utilities globally.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NewKerala.
Live Poll
Do you believe cross-border energy trade agreements between neighboring countries help improve your country's energy security?
