Bangladesh Seeks to Boost Coal-Fired Power Generation Amid Gas Shortage
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the power and energy ministry to take urgent steps to increase coal-fired power generation in order to free up more gas for industries. The government wants to ensure timely LNG imports while avoiding direct procurement.
The country's energy supply situation is expected to evolve at different stages through 2029, with a detailed plan outlining the expected changes sought by the prime minister. To achieve this goal, the Energy Division has recommended increasing coal-fired power generation even if it means somewhat higher power subsidies, so that more gas can be diverted to industries.
The government is planning to connect newly discovered gas reserves in Bhola to the national grid through a pipeline, estimated to cost Tk500 crore. This plan is expected to improve energy supplies by 2029 and reduce the country's dependence on expensive international LNG imports.