Hasina to propose 7 projects on electricity, fuel during China visit
Staff Correspondent
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will propose seven projects in the power and energy sector when she visits China, an official says.
The financial proposals will also include the construction of a gas pipeline from Moheshkhali, according to State Minister for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid.
During a press conference at the Secretariat on Thursday, the state minister said: “We have plans to propose the construction of an LNG pipeline from Moheshkhali. Bangladesh’s daily gas consumption is 3,500 million cubic feet per day or mmcfd. But in the next five years, it will increase to 6,000 mmcfd. This is why we are trying to meet the demand from imports and domestic supplies.
”While expressing his hopes that there will be no gas shortage in the country by 2027, Nasrul said: “We will dig 146 wells during this period. This is why a PSC on onshore bidding is being prepared.
“We have more plans. We are also making a proposal to China to construct a gas pipeline.”Hasina is scheduled to visit China during the second week of this month.
According to State Minister Nasrul, an agreement on importing electricity from Nepal will also be signed this month.Tk 10.86 billion has been allocated for the energy sector in the budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
Bangladesh is also purchasing gas and oil from its funds from the Power Division.Several projects including the Saidpur Diesel Power Station in northern Bangladesh will be built using the Tk 291.86 billion allocated for the Power Division.
“The price of electricity has been adjusted twice this year. We will adjust it again in time. The government’s subsidy on electricity was funded by issuing bonds last year. We hope to get the rest of last year’s money,” Nasrul said.
Nasrul emphasised the government's commitment to boosting renewable energy, saying: "Our primary goal is to achieve a 10 percent share. To reach 26,000 MW in total generation, 2,600 MW will be needed from renewable sources. Currently, we have 400 MW. I have issued a letter of intent for 2,500 MW."
