Dear Sir,
Concerns are growing over the potential power supply crisis Bangladesh may face this upcoming summer. The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) currently owes Tk 43,473 crore to various independent power producers (IPPs) and gas suppliers, putting the country's electricity generation at serious risk.
With electricity demand projected to rise to 18,232 MW this summer, and last year's shortfall of 2,000-2,200 MW still unresolved, the possibility of an even greater shortfall looms. Failure to clear the outstanding dues could lead to a deficit of up to 3,500-4,000 MW, causing widespread disruptions.
The government's focus on maximizing coal-based power generation, which is more cost-effective than other fuels, is a positive step. However, it is crucial to ensure that payments to coal-based power plants are cleared to avoid interruptions in coal imports. Additionally, maximizing domestic gas production and efficiently utilizing gas-based power plants must be prioritized. To prevent a crisis, prompt action is needed to resolve outstanding payments and secure the necessary resources for uninterrupted power supply this summer.
Zarif Anis
By E-mail
