Dhaka: Speakers at an event emphasized that energy security is crucial for sustainable industrial development, highlighting priorities such as energy efficiency, audits, conservation, financing and incentives, grid modernization, and effective communication.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event, titled 'Bangladesh Industrial Energy Efficiency Policy: A Draft for Sustainable Progress,' was organized by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) in collaboration with the South Asian Network on Economic Modeling (SANEM). Jalal Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), expressed concerns over Bangladesh's dwindling gas reserves and the lack of significant progress in gas exploration, which has resulted in a heavy reliance on imported gas.
Jalal noted that the energy sector's efficiency level stands at approximately 30 percent, suggesting that improvements could significantly reduce electricity shortages. He urged the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector to adopt renewable energy practices to expedite improvements.
Dr. Selim Raihan, Professor at the University of Dhaka and Executive Director of SANEM, presented the keynote paper, pointing out that the absence of supportive policies hampers the industrial sector despite having a master plan for energy. He stressed the need for a clear definition of energy efficiency for industrial applications and highlighted findings from discussions with stakeholders across various sectors.
Participants recommended energy audits, expansion of logistics services, and increased gas and electricity supply. Dr. Raihan emphasized the necessity of structural, supply-side, and policy strategies for the sector's advancement.
Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam from the Bangladesh Energy and Power Research Council (BEPRC) compared energy security to national and food security, calling for stakeholder cooperation. He underlined the financial burden of energy imports, which totaled approximately $20 billion last year, and advocated for prioritizing domestic resources.
Dr. M. Rezwan Khan, Chairman of Power Grid Bangladesh PLC, argued for revising the electricity tariff structure to differentiate between peak and off-peak hours. He clarified that electricity shortages stem from insufficient government funding for fuel, not supply system flaws.
DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed highlighted uninterrupted energy supply as a challenge affecting production, investment, and economic growth. He advocated for reducing fossil fuel dependence, expanding renewable energy use, and establishing a sustainable energy framework to bolster the industrial sector and economy.
The event featured insights from industry leaders, including Manwar Hossain, Mohammed Amirul Haque, Mostafa Al Mahmud, and others, who discussed the importance of energy efficiency in industrial growth. The open floor discussion included contributions from former DCCI officials and members, underscoring the collaborative effort required for progress.