Energy Shortages Plague Bangladesh

Posted on 18. Feb, 2009 by Ross in Asia, Energy Shortages, Government Policy

Whilst Bangladesh has been gripped by large boughts of load-shedding, politicians in Dhaka are accused of dithering over cohesive proposals about how to prevent the crisis worsening, as the shortfall threatens to double going into the peak summer months.

Official current power demands slightly exceed 4,000MW, but the current generating capacity of around 3,000MW is leaving a 25% energy shortage. Most of the resulting load-shedding has usually been bourne by rural areas, but cities have also been badly hit this month as power stations continue to be disrupted by gas shortages, tripping and various other problems.

To add extra pressure to the situation, which is already devastating the Bangladeshi economy in concert with the economic downturn, the power demands are forecast to peak at 5,500-6,000MW between April and September. With all its’ power stations operating at full capacity, and independant projects due for completion also due to come online, Bangladesh’s will be able to generate 4,000MW, leaving a huge 33% energy shortage.

The direct consequences of the shortage cannot be underestimated. Outside of the capital city, households and businesses can expect electricity for only half the day, whilst urban areas will be left in the dark for up to 6 hours per day. These projections also rely on there being sufficient gas for energy generation - current supplies are cripplingly short and departments of the new government have become divided about the best way of apportioning reserves. The power division is constantly demanding more for electricity generation, whilst the energy division is trying to divert gas supplies to industrial sectors to keep them running adequately. Little seems to be being doen to drive forward the construction of new power plants which the previous administration failed to plan for.

Whatever the political battles and struggles, the energy shortages will hit the ordinary people and businesses of Bangladesh hardest, and as the population continues to grow and incvrease demand then power stations will have to come hand in hand with energy saving initiatives and power efficiency drives if the country is to continue to develop.