India (Commonwealth Union)_ According to reports, India and Singapore are expediting plans to interconnect their power grids via an undersea cable routed through Andaman & Nicobar, facilitating the sale of renewable energy from India to Singapore. The signing of an agreement is anticipated in the near future. Official sources revealed that India is also engaged in discussions with various Southeast Asian nations, including Singapore and Thailand, to enable cross-border trade of renewable energy electricity. Further, the establishment of grid linkages will take place both underwater and on land, depending on cost considerations, thus expanding India’s cross-border electricity sales significantly.
Presently, cross-border interconnections are functional with Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar, which collectively facilitate a power transfer of approximately 4,423 megawatts (MW). One of the sources indicated that the cost of the exported renewable energy to Singapore through this arrangement is projected to be more economical than their gas-based electricity, making a compelling economic case for this investment. Singapore, aiming to fulfill its commitments to the Paris Agreement, seeks to obtain renewable energy from India to aid in achieving its targets.
Discussions were held on this subject between the two countries on the sidelines of the G20 Energy Ministerial and Clean Energy Ministerial meetings earlier in the month, demonstrating Singapore’s keen interest in the plan. A comprehensive feasibility study will be prepared, with the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd conducting further studies on the technical aspects of the project. Singapore, facing limitations in expanding renewable energy due to land scarcity and intermittent solar power, has been exploring various options, including regional power grids. Meanwhile, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, isolated from the mainland, encounter unique challenges in power supply, with the majority derived from diesel-based generation. Hence, the agreement with Singapore will not only enable increased connectivity but also promote the use of renewable energy on the islands.
In addition to Singapore, India has also been in negotiations with Saudi Arabia and the UAE to connect their power grids, facilitating the trade of renewable energy. Plans include potential connectivity with Oman before extending to the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, India is also exploring the possibility of supplying over 11 million metric tons per year of green hydrogen to the European Union and Singapore, with the latter investing in these projects. Moreover, Singapore is seeking to acquire around 5 million metric tons per year of green ammonia through bilateral agreements. Last year, India advanced its ambitions as a major green hydrogen exporter by approving a substantial incentive plan and setting a target to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.
