To address the growing energy shortage in the country, the government has decided to carry out drilling, workover, exploration, and development of 34 gas wells across various regions this year, with the expectation of adding 320 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of natural gas to the national grid.
Currently, the country's daily gas demand stands at 3,800mmcfd, which is steadily increasing. Petrobangla can supply only 2,500-2,800mmcfd, with around 1,000mmcfd met through expensive LNG imports.
"If the projected production levels according to 3D seismic surveys are achieved, LNG imports could significantly decrease," said an official at Petrobangla.
The target is to complete the work this year. Successfully executing these projects will ease the pressure of imports, the chairman said, highlighting that continuous decline in domestic gas production is currently being covered by LNG imports.
According to energy division officials, Bapex will be responsible for drilling and workover operations at 14 wells. Besides, 20 more wells will be explored and developed through international open bidding, with foreign companies conducting the work.
