Bangladesh to import 1,000 MW of renewable energy from India

The Bangladesh government has signed an MoU with India to import 1,000 megawatts of renewable energy. It also plans to tap Nepal and Bhutan to meet its energy needs. If the country wants renewable energy to meet 10 percent of its total electricity demand by 2025, it will need 2,600 MW of green energy, up from 450 MW now.

Bangladesh currently imports electricity generated from gas and fuel oil on a government-to-government basis. It also imports electricity from Adani Power’s coal-fired power plant.

Energy Minister Nasrul Hamid said the main reason for the high prices of electricity, gas and heating oil in Bangladesh is the strong dollar. Another reason is the government’s plan to withdraw subsidies.

For Bangladesh to achieve its stated goal of meeting 10 percent of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2025, it would need to drastically increase its green energy production capacity to 2,600. Bangladesh currently has 450 megawatts.

To achieve our energy generation targets, 2,500 MW of renewable electricity has been planned, with an additional 6,000 MW in the pipeline for private sector investment. Activities with the World Bank are underway to promote private investment in renewable energy. There are plans to integrate wind power alongside solar panels and explore offshore wind power generation. In addition, there are initiatives to upgrade the transmission system to a smart grid and develop electricity storage capabilities.

Uninterrupted gas supply is expected to resume on July 15, while normal electricity supply is expected to be restored within three to four days due to the operation of the Payra power plant.

Petrobangla has announced international tenders for oil and gas exploration in the Bay of Bengal. The deadline for submitting bids will be extended due to strong interest from companies.