Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan stated on Wednesday that the government is making all-out efforts to ensure Ramadan remains free from load shedding.
The Adviser clarified that there are no immediate plans to raise power or gas tariffs. However, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) is considering a gas price hike for industrial consumers who wish to consume additional gas. He made these remarks while addressing a press briefing at Biduyt Bhaban, attended by all senior officials of the Power and Energy sector.
"There might be disruptions due to other reasons but not due to a supply shortfall. We apprehend that the demand for electricity during Ramadan will reach 15,700 MW, which is a manageable condition for us," he said.
The electricity demand during the summer and irrigation season has been estimated at 18,000 MW, out of which 6,000 MW is required for the cooling (AC) system. He urged the media and consumers to set their AC temperatures at 25 to 26 degrees Celsius. "If we can keep the AC temperature up to 25 or 26 degrees Celsius, the demand will be reduced by 2,000 to 3,000 MW. And then there will be no need for load shedding," he added.
"Our main challenge is a shortage of primary fuel. Due to this problem, we cannot run our plants. At the same time, we have currency issues, and we are working on it," the Adviser said.
He also mentioned that load shedding will be balanced between rural and urban areas. "We assure you that there will be no discrimination in load shedding between rural and urban areas," he said.
The Adviser highlighted that the government's primary focus is on food production, fertilizer supply, and ensuring uninterrupted power and gas supply.
