Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday presented a detailed five-point government strategy to confront Bangladesh's persistent energy crisis by enhancing domestic gas production, ramping up exploration activities, fortifying the Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX), expanding Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) infrastructure, and reducing the country's reliance on imported gas.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister responded to a query from MP Selina Sultana (Women Seat-35) during Parliament's question-answer session, emphasizing that the energy sector had been left in a weakened state during the previous ruling period, marked by inadequate gas exploration and an increasing dependency on imports. He elaborated that the government has formulated an integrated action plan aimed at resolving the current energy crisis and fostering a self-sufficient and sustainable energy framework for the nation.
In efforts to boost domestic gas production, Tarique disclosed that 30 wells have already been drilled as part of a program targeting the drilling or workover of 150 wells, which has currently added 140 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of gas to the national grid. Additionally, he mentioned that upon the completion of seven wells currently under drilling, an extra 85 mmcfd of gas would be introduced into the national supply.
The Prime Minister also outlined plans for extensive seismic surveys, including 4,500 line-kilometers of 2D surveys and 4,200 square kilometers of 3D surveys, to explore gas reserves within the country. Steps are being taken to reinforce BAPEX, particularly through the procurement of two new rigs.
Discussing exploration efforts, Tarique highlighted the approval of the Offshore Model Production Sharing Contract (PSC) 2026, with a bidding round already invited, while the Onshore Model PSC awaits approval. He emphasized that gas discoveries from offshore and onshore explorations are crucial for ensuring Bangladesh's energy security.
Negotiations are in progress with potential companies to establish a floating LNG terminal at Kutubjom in the deep sea off Maheshkhali in Cox's Bazar. The Prime Minister expressed optimism about the ability to supply regasified LNG from the terminal by December 2028, projecting an increase in LNG imports by another 600 mmcfd within two years. Feasibility studies for additional floating LNG terminals near Payra or Mongla ports or along the southwestern coastal areas have also been initiated.
Tarique also addressed reports of factory closures due to energy shortages, refuting claims of widespread shutdowns. He clarified that the alleged closures were based on outdated or incorrect information, which was later retracted by those who initially reported it.
The initial 30 minutes of Wednesday's parliamentary session were dedicated to the Prime Minister's question-answer segment, providing a platform for addressing key national issues.