Bangladesh Grapples with Energy Crisis Amid LNG Terminal Disruption

The recent disruption of gas supply from one of the two floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs) at Maheshkhali, Cox's Bazar to the national grid has exposed the vulnerability of the system. The shutdown of the Excelerate Energy-operated terminal has caused a shortfall of 450 million cubic feet of gas a day (mmcfd), severely affecting gas supply to households, CNG filling stations, power plants, factories, and industries.

The technical problem developed due to a fire could not be detected by local experts, prompting the involvement of foreign specialists from the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. The damage caused by the fire has been identified, and replacement of damaged parts and cables is underway. However, there remains a risk of similar accidents in the future.

Experts warn that Bangladesh's heavy dependence on imported fuel from the Middle East is becoming increasingly unsustainable due to the ongoing war in the region. To overcome this crisis, the country needs to diversify its energy sources by exploring both fossil and renewable energy options. Harnessing solar and wind power could be a viable alternative, given Bangladesh's abundant sunshine and coastal wind.