The government of Bangladesh has taken a dual approach to ensure a stable electricity supply across the country by expanding power distribution infrastructure and promoting energy conservation measures to curb load-shedding.
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood informed the Parliament on Thursday that the government plans to significantly enhance electricity distribution capacity by adding 6,255 MVA by 2031. Currently, 1,834 substations are operating under six distribution agencies, including Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB), Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), and others.
He said work on 139 new substations is underway, while multiple projects are being implemented to upgrade existing facilities and expand capacity. Under BREB alone, five projects are ongoing and three are awaiting approval. These initiatives include constructing new substations and upgrading existing ones to meet growing electricity demand.
The minister also highlighted ongoing modernisation efforts across different regions, with new and planned projects in Mymensingh, Cumilla, western, and northern zones.
He expressed hope that successful implementation of these plans would significantly reduce power outages and ensure reliable supply for both residential and industrial consumers.
At the same time, the minister emphasised the importance of energy conservation to tackle load-shedding.
Speaking in Parliament, he said there is no overall shortfall in electricity generation, but disruptions may occur during peak summer due to fuel shortages, infrastructure limitations, and weather-related factors.
To address this, the government has introduced a range of energy-saving measures, including limiting unnecessary lighting, maintaining air conditioner temperatures at 25°C or above, and avoiding the use of high-energy appliances during peak hours.
The Power Division has also launched energy audit programmes at 74 facilities in areas such as Mymensingh, Ghorashal and Narayanganj, while developing a pool of certified energy auditors and managers to improve efficiency.
In addition, awareness campaigns through media, mosques and public outreach programmes are encouraging consumers to use electricity responsibly. Regular drives are also being conducted to prevent illegal usage and discourage excessive power consumption in markets and commercial areas.
Officials said that alongside infrastructure expansion, public cooperation in energy conservation will be key to ensuring a stable and uninterrupted power supply in the coming years.
