Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday outlined a five-point strategy to address Bangladesh’s ongoing energy crisis by increasing domestic gas production, intensifying exploration, strengthening BAPEX, expanding LNG infrastructure and reducing reliance on imported gas. Report UNB
Replying to a question in Parliament, Tarique said the government had adopted an integrated plan to develop a more self-reliant and sustainable energy system.
Under a program to drill and rework 150 wells, 30 wells have already been completed, adding around 140 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) of gas to the national grid. Seven more wells are currently under drilling and are expected to add another 85 MMCFD once completed.
The government has also planned 4,500 line-kilometers of 2D seismic surveys and 4,200 square kilometers of 3D surveys to identify new domestic gas reserves.
The Prime Minister said steps were being taken to strengthen Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company (BAPEX), including procurement of two new drilling rigs.
The Offshore Model Production Sharing Contract (PSC) 2026 has been approved and bidding has been invited, while the Onshore Model PSC is awaiting approval. Tarique said successful offshore and onshore exploration would be crucial to strengthening national energy security.
Negotiations are also underway with interested companies to establish a floating LNG terminal at Kutubjom, off Maheshkhali in Cox’s Bazar. The government expects the terminal to begin supplying regasified LNG by December 2028, potentially increasing LNG import capacity by about 600 MMCFD.
Feasibility studies are also underway for one or two additional floating LNG terminals near Payra or Mongla ports or along the southwestern coast.
PM Rejects Factory Closure Claims
Responding to reports that 92 or even 200-300 factories had closed because of gas and electricity shortages, Tarique rejected the figures.
He said the report citing around 95 factory closures had subsequently been withdrawn and apologized for, suggesting that it was based on outdated or inaccurate information.
The Prime Minister said the government was working to resolve the country’s energy constraints through increased domestic production, exploration and infrastructure development.
