Bangladesh’s electricity supply situation is expected to see gradual improvement as several previously underperforming or shut coal-fired power plants prepare to resume or increase generation in the coming days, according to the Power Division.
Speaking at a briefing on Thursday, Joint Secretary of the division Umme Rehana said that the temporary shutdown and reduced output from major plants had contributed to the ongoing electricity shortfall, which currently stands at around 2,500 megawatts compared to national demand.
She noted that a key development is the expected restart of a unit of the Adani Power plant in Jharkhand, which is likely to resume operations by 26 April. In addition, the SS Power plant is expected to return to normal production by 28 April, while the RNPL facility is projected to restore output by the first week of May.
Officials estimate that these plants, along with other coal-based units, could add approximately 1,982 megawatts to the national grid by early May. This would significantly ease pressure on the electricity system, which has been struggling due to fuel shortages including coal, gas and furnace oil.
At present, Bangladesh’s electricity generation stands at around 14,190 megawatts against a demand of 15,902 megawatts. Some plants are reportedly operating below capacity due to technical issues and coal supply constraints.
Authorities also indicated that once the affected plants return to full or near-full production, overall generation could reach around 3,000 megawatts higher than current levels, helping stabilise supply and reduce the risk of disruptions in the coming weeks.
