Bangladesh's energy security strategy is entering a new phase as the government simultaneously accelerates renewable electricity generation and domestic natural gas production to reduce dependence on imported fuel, strengthen the national power system and support long-term economic growth.
Speaking in the Jatiya Sangsad on Wednesday, Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said Bangladesh aims to meet 20% of its total electricity demand from renewable energy by 2030, rising to 30% by 2040. The government has also set a target of developing 10,000 MW of solar power generation capacity, positioning solar energy as a central pillar of the country's clean energy transition.
Responding to a scripted question from opposition lawmaker Md Moktar Ali, the minister said the renewable energy targets form part of a broader strategy to ensure a reliable, sustainable and resilient electricity supply as demand continues to increase.
Bangladesh's daily electricity demand currently ranges between 16,500 MW and 17,500 MW, while average power generation and transmission to the national grid stands between 15,500 MW and 17,200 MW, according to the minister. He also noted that the country achieved a historic milestone on 20 May 2026, when electricity generation reached 17,200 MW, the highest level ever recorded.
To expand clean electricity generation, the government is installing rooftop solar systems on government offices, educational institutions and healthcare facilities under the National Rooftop Solar Programme. At the same time, authorities are modernising electricity generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure to improve service reliability, expand network capacity and reduce technical losses.
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said prepaid electricity meters are being installed to curb illegal consumption and minimise wastage, while ageing distribution lines and substations are being upgraded alongside the construction of new infrastructure. Additional measures are also being implemented to reduce system losses across the distribution network, improving operational efficiency and strengthening power supply nationwide.
The minister also updated parliament on electricity supply in Keshabpur under the Jashore-6 constituency. The area, served by the Keshabpur Zonal Office of Jashore Palli Bidyut Samity-2 under the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board, has a power demand of 22 MW, with 19 MW currently being supplied through the Nowapara and Jashore grids.
Alongside expanding renewable electricity, the government has launched an ambitious programme to increase domestic natural gas production and reduce reliance on imported LNG, which has become increasingly important as global fuel prices remain vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions.
The minister said Bangladesh currently produces around 1,630 million cubic feet of natural gas per day from 20 producing gas fields. Although 30 gas fields have been discovered across the country, only 20 are currently in production, prompting the government to intensify exploration onshore and offshore.
As part of the strategy, Bangladesh plans to drill or rework 150 gas wells by 2031. Work has already been completed on 29 wells, resulting in significant new gas discoveries and additional supplies being connected to the national gas transmission network. Drilling operations are currently underway on eight more wells, while preparations continue for the remaining projects.
The government is also expanding geological surveys to identify new hydrocarbon reserves. The state-owned Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) has completed extensive two-dimensional seismic surveys across several onshore areas, with specialists now analysing the data. More detailed three-dimensional seismic surveys are planned around major gas fields, including Habiganj and Bakhrabad, to identify previously undiscovered reserves.
Offshore exploration has also become a priority in Bangladesh's long-term energy strategy. In May 2026, the government invited international energy companies to bid for exploration rights in 26 offshore blocks, including 15 deep-water and 11 shallow-water blocks. Interested companies have until November 2026 to submit their proposals. The government also intends to invite international firms to participate in future onshore exploration projects.
To strengthen exploration capacity, the government is procuring two additional drilling rigs for BAPEX, increasing the company's fleet from five to seven rigs. According to the minister, the expanded drilling capability will enable faster well development, accelerate domestic gas production and improve Bangladesh's long-term energy security.
The twin strategy of expanding renewable electricity while boosting indigenous gas production reflects Bangladesh's effort to diversify its energy mix, enhance fuel security and reduce exposure to volatile international energy markets. By combining large-scale solar investment with increased gas exploration and modernised electricity infrastructure, the government aims to build a more resilient power sector capable of supporting rising demand and sustaining economic growth over the coming decade.
