Energy crisis worsens as 3,000MW shortfall hits grid
Bangladesh’s power sector is under severe strain, with officials warning the energy crisis has gone “beyond tolerable levels” amid supply disruptions tied to the Middle East conflict.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Secretariat on Thursday, Umme Rehana, joint secretary (Planning-1) of the Power Division, said rising summer demand and fuel supply constraints have deepened the situation.
“Load shedding is common in summer, but this year it is more intense due to the Middle East war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” she said.
According to the Power Division, electricity demand today is projected at nearly 17,000MW, while generation capacity is limited to about 14,000MW—leaving a deficit of around 3,000MW.
Rehana noted that soaring temperatures, increased use of air-conditioners, and higher overall electricity consumption have pushed demand sharply upward.
“The Middle East crisis has further aggravated the situation, pushing it beyond a tolerable level,” she added.
Recent figures show that on the previous day, demand stood at 15,767MW against generation of 13,681MW.
Despite having substantial installed capacity, power generation remains constrained due to shortages of gas and other fuels. Gas-based plants, which account for 43 percent of total capacity (12,154MW), are operating well below potential.
“To run these plants at full capacity, around 2,000 mmcfd of gas is needed, but current supply is only between 850 and 900 mmcfd,” she said. As a result, gas-fired plants generated just 5,270MW yesterday.
Coal-based generation has also been affected. Technical issues at the Adani power plant, reduced output from the 1,320MW SS Power plant, and a shutdown of one unit at the 1,320MW RNPL plant due to coal shortages have all contributed to the shortfall.
However, officials expect gradual improvement. The Adani plant issue may be resolved by April 26, while the SS Power plant is likely to return to full capacity by April 28. Together, these could add about 1,350MW to the national grid by the end of the month.
Additionally, underperforming coal-fired plants are expected to ramp up production, potentially contributing another 1,982MW by early May—offering some relief from ongoing load shedding.
