Category: Energy and Power

Ba ngladesh is constructing its first commercial nuclear power installation (2×VVER-1200) at Rooppur, Pabna, which is expected to operate fully by 2026.

the national plan also includes a second nuclear plant, contributing to at least 10% of total electricity from nuclear sources by 2040. Radioactive waste management is therefore becoming increasingly important. While there is a general agreement that spent fuel from RNPP will be shipped back to the Russian Federation under intergovernmental agreements, Bangladesh must still independently manage LILW, i.e., disused sealed radiation sources (DSRS), waste generated from the 3 MW TRIGA Mark-II research reactor, and medical, industrial, and research radioactive waste streams. Bangladesh recently approved national policies assigning BAEC responsibility for developing RW management strategies and technical capacities.

the selection of a suitable geologic medium, particularly for near-surface disposal structures, is therefore an essential research priority. Near-surface disposal involves placing low and intermediatelevel radioactive waste in shallow repositories, typically at depths of up to a few hundred meters below the surface.

these types of waste have relatively short-lived radionuclides that decay quickly, so they don’t require long-term isolation. It is often situated on land where the waste is relatively easy to access for monitoring and management.

the waste is often placed in engineered barriers like concrete vaults or steel containers to prevent contact with groundwater or surface water.

the site is then sealed with soil or other materials to minimize exposure.

the advantage of near-surface disposal is lower cost compared to deep geological disposal, easier to construct, monitor, and manage, and shorter planning and construction periods. However, near-surface disposal is limited to low- and intermediate-level waste (not for high-level waste), is more vulnerable to surface disturbances (e.g., weathering, erosion, human activities), and potential for contamination of groundwater over time if not properly sealed. Basic concept of geological disposal of RW On the other hand, deep geological disposal involves placing high-level radioactive waste (HLW) deep underground, typically several hundred to thousands of meters below the earth’s surface, in stable geological formations. Primarily for high-level waste, which includes spent nuclear fuel and other materials from reactors that remain highly radioactive for thousands to millions of years.

these sites are typically located in geologically stable regions (e.g., deep sedimentary rock, granite, or salt formations) where the conditions are unlikely to change significantly over the long term.

the sites need to have very low seismic activity, minimal groundwater movement, and minimal potential for human interference.

in this system, waste is placed in canisters, which are then sealed in tunnels or vaults deep underground. Overlying rock layers act as a natural barrier to radiation, while engineered barriers (like bentonite clay) provide additional protection.

the goal is to isolate the waste for thousands to millions of years, well beyond the life of human-made structuresGlobal Geological Disposal Practices Using Clay Clay formations are widely recognized globally as one of the most promising host rocks for RW disposal due to their intrinsic physical, chemical, and geo-mechanical properties. Various countries are actively pursuing the use of natural clay in waste disposal systems. Finland has made significant strides in utilizing natural clay as part of its deep geological disposal strategy.

the Onkalo repository, located in the bedrock of the Olkiluoto nuclear power plant, is the world’s first deep geological repository for high-level radioactive waste (HLW).

the repository is designed to safely store waste for up to 100,000 years.

the Onkalo site utilizes bentonite clay (a smectite-rich clay) as a key component of the engineered barrier system (EBS). Bentonite’s low permeability, high swelling capacity, and ability to adsorb radionuclides make it an ideal material for preventing groundwater flow and ensuring the long-term isolation of radioactive waste.

extensive testing, including laboratory experiments and field trials, has demonstrated that bentonite will remain stable under the expected conditions at Onkalo, with its swelling properties providing selfsealing capabilities in case of cracks or gaps. Finland’s Onkalo project is regarded as a model for safe geological disposal, and its successful implementation of natural clay has set a global standard for future nuclear waste management projects. Sweden is also actively pursuing the use of natural clay in radioactive waste disposal, with the Forsmark repository being a key project for the disposal of high-level radioactive waste.

the repository is designed to be located at a depth of approximately 500 meters within the Swedish bedrock, where it will store radioactive waste for the long term. Like Finland, Sweden is using bentonite clay as a primary sealing material.

the clay is intended to form part of the EBS, alongside a thick layer of granite bedrock, to isolate the waste.

the Cigéo repository in France will use bentonite clay as part of the multi-barrier system, which includes a combination of rock and engineered materials. Bentonite is expected to act as a buffer between the waste containers and the surrounding rock, helping to prevent water from migrating and spreading contamination.

the French nuclear waste management agency (ANDRA) has been researching to understand the long-term performance of bentonite clay, particularly in relation to its behavior under high radiation and temperature conditions.

this is especially important as the waste will generate heat, which could affect the clay’s properties over time.

the Yucca Mountain repository in Nevada was a proposed site for the disposal of high-level radioactive waste in the United States. While the project has been politically and legally stalled for years, its design included extensive use of natural clay as a sealing material.

the proposed design for Yucca Mountain included a bentonite clay buffer, which was meant to reduce water flow and limit the migration of radionuclides.

the Opalinus Clay in Switzerland selected for HLW, spent fuel, and ILW disposal, exhibits extremely low permeability (10-13-10-11m/s) and diffusive transport-dominated migration.

the Swiss concept uses a bentonite-sand buffer around steel canisters. Boom Clay in Belgium (poorly indurated clay) was chosen for HLW and LILW, which was selected due to favorable porosity, homogeneity, retention capacity, and mechanical properties. Japan’s disposal research focuses on Neogene marine clay formations and bentonite-based engineered barriers. Studies evaluate coupled thermal and mechanical responses of bentonite under simulated repository conditions (JAEA, 2019). Clay Mineralogy and Behavior Relevant to RW Disposal Natural clays, particularly those rich in smectite minerals (e.g., montmorillonite), are characterized by several important properties that make them suitable for radioactive waste containment: Low Permeability: Clays are known for their very low hydraulic conductivity, which is a key factor in preventing the migration of radioactive isotopes.

the tightly packed mineral structure of clay forms a barrier that limits the flow of water and contaminants, reducing the possibility of leaching. High Ion-Exchange Capacity: Clays have a high cation-exchange capacity (CEC), meaning they can adsorb and immobilize a wide variety of ions, including radionuclides.

this property is crucial for reducing the mobility of radioactive elements such as cesium, strontium, and uranium. Stability under Long-Term Conditions: Natural clays, particularly those formed in stable geological environments, are generally resistant to chemical weathering and physical disruption.

their stability under both anoxic and alkaline conditions makes them ideal for long-term waste containment, where the material must remain intact for thousands to millions of years. Swelling and Self-Healing Properties: Certain clays, especially smectites, exhibit a unique ability to swell when in contact with water.

this can enhance their sealing capacity, as the swelling clays can close up cracks and gaps in the barrier.

this selfhealing ability can improve the integrity of the containment system over time.

abundance and Cost-Effectiveness: Natural clays are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to other engineered materials.

this makes them an attractive option for large-scale waste disposal projects. Several types of natural clays have been considered for use in radioactive waste disposal systems.

among the most commonly studied are: Smectite Clays (e.g., Montmorillonite): Montmorillonite, a member of the smectite group, is particularly well-suited for radioactive waste containment due to its high swelling capacity, ion-exchange properties, and low permeability. Smectites are widely used in both laboratory and field tests for evaluating the effectiveness of clay-based barrier systems.

illite Clays: Illite clays are also considered for waste disposal applications, although they tend to have a lower swelling capacity than smectites.

they are often found in environments with more stable physical and chemical conditions, which makes them suitable for certain geological formations. Kaolinite and Chlorite Clays: Kaolinite and chlorite clays are less commonly used but are being studied for their potential in low-level radioactive waste disposal.

they have a relatively low ion-exchange capacity compared to smectites, but may still offer suitable containment properties under specific conditions. Major clay types and their repository applications.

the suitability and challenges of natural clays for radioactive waste disposal The suitability of natural clays for radioactive waste disposal depends on a variety of factors, including the type of waste, the specific characteristics of the clay, and the geological environment. The key aspects that affect the performance of clays in waste disposal systems are geochemical interactions and radionuclide retention, mechanical and thermal stability, impact of groundwater and fluid flow, and long-term performance and aging. However, there are some challenges and limitations of natural clays. Natural clays exhibit significant variability in their composition, mineralogy, and behavior, which can affect their suitability for specific waste disposal applications. Variability in smectite content, for example, can impact swelling properties and ion-exchange capacity. While clays are generally stable, they can be susceptible to physical disruption from seismic activity or erosion over long periods.

the integrity of clay barriers must be carefully considered in areas with seismic risk or active hydrological conditions.

exposure to high temperatures, radiation, or extreme pH conditions could lead to the transformation of clay minerals, potentially reducing their ability to retain radionuclides or act as effective barriers. For instance, smectite can transform into less reactive minerals like illite or chlorite under certain conditions. Madhupur clay for the radioactive waste disposal in Bangladesh The long-term disposal of radioactive waste requires materials and rock formations that provide reliable containment over geological timescales.

among the key criteria are very low permeability, high sorption capacity for radionuclides, mechanical and chemical stability, and predictable behavior under coupled thermalhydraulic-mechanical-chemical conditions. Bangladesh lies in a tectonically active deltaic region dominated by alluvial sediments, deltaic clays, Pleistocene Madhupur Clay, coastal marine clay, tertiary mudstone/shale in Chittagong Hill Tracts, and clay-rich layers in Sylhet and Bogura basins. Madhupur Clay is widely studied and geographically extensive, making it the most viable natural clay candidate.

this type of clay is described as highly weathered, reddish-brown to brickred clayey deposit, often capping uplifted blocks or terraces above alluvial flood plains. Madhupur Clay is suitable for nearsurface LILW disposal but not for deep HLW repositories. For future HLW disposal, tertiary mudstones of the Chittagong Hill Tracts show potential and need systematic exploration. Coastal and marine clays have high water content, are compressible, and saline, which makes them unsuitable for deep disposal, and may be used for engineered barriers after purification/bentonite blending.

tertiary mudstone in hill tracts lithified and indurated claystone/mudstone, comparable to argillite Boom Clay in Belgium in terms of diagenesis, which requires systematic geotechnical, hydrogeological, and mineralogical evaluation. Conclusion: Natural clay formations provide some of the most reliable and scientifically proven geological media for radioactive waste disposal. Bangladesh’s geological setting includes significant clay deposits, notably Madhupur Clay and Tertiary mudstones, which hold potential for RW containment, particularly for near-surface LILW disposal. However, extensive geotechnical, hydrogeological, mineralogical, and structural characterization is required before selecting any site for longterm RW isolation. Building a national clay characterization program and establishing a deep geological research facility will be vital steps toward a sustainable RW management strategy.

there are some research gaps and challenges, such as geological and hydrogeological data gaps, geo-mechanical characterization, groundwater flow modeling and diffusion coefficients, fault and fracture mapping at disposal depths, etc.

in addition, there are some engineering and technological gaps, such as a lack of national bentonite characterization programs, the absence of underground research laboratories, and limited experience with large-scale engineered barrier systems.

there are also regulatory and institutional challenges, including the need for site-selection guidelines, establishing RW disposal safety case methodology and skilled manpower, and RandD infrastructure development. Under these circumstances, Bangladesh can adopt the multibarrier clay-based disposal concepts used in Europe, where indigenous clay can be blended with imported sodium bentonite to create engineered barriers. For all of this, Bangladesh needs to establish regional collaboration with the IAEA, European clay disposal programs like ANDRA, NAGRA, ONDRAF, and Asian countries building clay repositories

Bangladesh’s Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant has entered its final phase but faces another delay, with fuel loading for Unit 1 postponed due to pending technical and regulatory clearances. Global sanctions, payment challenges, political disruptions, and transmission delays have slowed progress, despite strong oversight by the IAEA and extensive local workforce training.

once operational, Rooppur will supply 2,400 MW of noncarbon baseload power, marking Bangladesh’s entry into the nuclear era, though commercial operation is unlikely before 2026-27.Bangladesh’s long-awaited entry into the nuclear power era has encountered yet another setback. Fuel loading for the first 1,200 MW unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP), the country’s largest and most technologically complex development project, will not take place on December 25 as previously scheduled, according to project authorities.

the delay underscores the intricate technical, regulatory, and geopolitical challenges facing the project as it nears its final stages.

officials say that a series of final technical and safety verification processes remains incomplete, preventing fuel loading at this time. While the milestone was expected to mark a decisive step toward power generation, authorities have refrained from announcing a revised timeline, stating that a new date will be formally declared once all regulatory requirements are satisfied.

although the postponement is disappointing, experts emphasize that delays at this stage are not unusual for nuclear projects, where safety, security, and international oversight take precedence over rigid timelines. With most construction work completed and commissioning activities well underway, Rooppur is now moving cautiously toward a milestone that will define Bangladesh’s energy future for decades. Bangladesh’s Largest Single Investment Project The RNPP is Bangladesh’s largest single investment project, with an estimated cost of USD 12.65 billion.

the majority of the financing has been provided through loans from the Russian Federation. Russia’s state-owned nuclear corporation, Rosatom, is implementing the project on a turnkey basis, covering technology supply, construction, and human resource development.

the plant uses Generation III+ VVER1200 reactor technology, widely regarded as among the safest in the world. Construction began in 2017 at Rooppur in Ishwardi upazila of Pabna district, following the signing of a comprehensive intergovernmental agreement with Russia. Due to earlier delays, the commissioning timeline was revised, setting 2026 for Unit 1 and 2027 for Unit 2.

impact of Global and Domestic Challenges The Russia-Ukraine war and subsequent Western sanctions on Russia significantly disrupted project implementation. Sanctions delayed the replacement of equipment and the delivery of components originally sourced from Europe, while also complicating financial transactions with Russian contractors.

although construction continued during the COVID-19 pandemic under special arrangements, delays occurred in building transmission infrastructure. While transmission lines connecting the first 1,200 MW unit to the national grid are now ready, completion of the full transmission system may extend until the end of next year. Sanctions also complicated loan servicing and payments to Russian companies. While due payments have been deposited in local banks, transferring funds abroad remains a challenge.

in addition, the student-led mass movement in August 2024, which ended the Awami League’s 16-year rule, disrupted construction activities and supply chains for several months, further contributing to delays. Revised Loan Terms and Oversight Changes In response to the accumulated delays, Russia extended the loan tenure by two years under a revised agreement. Observers note that during the previous government’s tenure, Rooppur was treated as a priority project under direct oversight of a high-level committee at the Prime Minister’s Office. Following the formation of the interim government, that level of institutional focus reportedly declined. Currently, the Finance Adviser also oversees the Ministry of Science and Technology and is actively working to expedite completion of the project despite multiple responsibilities. Meanwhile, a high-level mission from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) visited Rooppur earlier this year and gave a green signal for preparations to begin power generation. Readiness of Local Human Resources An official involved with the project since its inception, speaking on condition of anonymity, said nuclear power plants differ fundamentally from conventional fossil fuel-based facilities.

every stage, from construction to commissioning, requires clearance from national and international experts.

alongside construction, extensive human resource development has been undertaken.

according to the official, operational manpower is now fully prepared.

trained personnel have completed the required testing, certification, and formal handover processes as outlined by the construction team. Safety, Security, and Regulatory Compliance A nuclear scientist told Energy and Power that every aspect of nuclear power plant operation must comply with stringent national and international standards. Safety, security, and safeguards are the three guiding principles.

these include finalizing on-site and off-site emergency systems, radiation monitoring arrangements, and compliance with regulatory guidelines.

all processes must be reported to the IAEA.

according to the scientist, the construction team hasalready handed over the plant to the commissioning team, composed primarily of locally trained professionals. Cooling tests and the hot run test, conducted using dummy fuel to simulate reactor behavior, have already been completed. Regulatory certification is now required before fuel loading can proceed.

official Confirmation and Expected Timeline Saikat Ahmed, Focal Point of the RNPP Construction Project and Senior Scientific Information Officer, confirmed that cooling and hot run tests have been completed. ‘Fuel loading for Unit 1 was scheduled for December 25,’ he said. ‘However, some final tests and verifications are still ongoing in compliance with regulatory requirements. Fuel loading will not take place on that date.

once a new timeline is finalized, it will be officially announced.’ Another source indicated that fuel loading may take place in January.

once completed, the commissioning team will formally hand over Unit 1 to the operational team, composed entirely of Bangladeshi personnel, under the supervision of Russian experts and national regulators. From Fuel Loading to Power Generation Following fuel loading, at least one month will be required before electricity generation begins. Power output will increase gradually – at 5%, 10%, and 20% capacity – before synchronizing with the national grid at around 30% load.

the entire process from fuel loading to initial grid connection may take up to three months, while full commercial operation could require an additional 9-10 months. Project Progress, Technology, and Grid Readiness Structural work for both units is nearly complete. Current efforts focus on system integration, equipment testing, and final safety verification in line with IAEA guidelines.

the VVER-1200 reactors feature multilayered safety systems, including a core catcher.

installation of major equipment-reactor pressure vessels, steam generators, turbines, and auxiliaries-has been completed. Most testing activities are now being carried out by Bangladeshi engineers under Russian supervision. Cost, Financing, and PPA Uncertainty While the total project cost remains USD 12.65 billion, the electricity generation cost is still uncertain, as no Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) has yet been signed between Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited and BPDB. Professor Dr. Shafiqul Islam of the University of Dhaka estimates that generation costs could range from 7 to 9 US cents per unit, depending on operating load and delays. His updated study incorporating the four-year delay is currently under review. Human Resource Development and Skills Enhancement More than a hundred Bangladeshi specialists have already completed advanced training in Russia and domestically to operate the Rooppur NPP. Several hundred additional engineers and officials are undergoing phased advanced training.

a significant number of these trained professionals will assume responsibilities in reactor operation, safety management, and maintenance.

even before formal commissioning, most testing activities at Rooppur are being carried out by domestically trained personnel under the supervision of Russian contractor staff.

international Oversight and Safety Compliance Multiple missions of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have already visited the project site and described the progress in safety compliance as satisfactory. Several additional international audits will be conducted before full commissioning in 2026. Since the decision to construct a nuclear power plant was taken, Bangladesh has worked at every stage with guidance, clearance, and oversight from the IAEA and relevant international experts.

under this supervision, the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) was established and has been actively involved at every phase of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) project.

a New Era in Bangladesh’s Energy Sector The RNPP, the largest technological milestone in Bangladesh’s power sector, is now nearing completion.

initiated in 2017, the project is rapidly becoming a reality and is set to usher in a new chapterin energy security, technological advancement, and economic growth.

the acquisition of advanced and complex nuclear technology represents a transformative leap for Bangladesh’s energy future, elevating the country’s global standing.

the RNPP has also driven significant infrastructure development in Pabna and surrounding areas, including roads, housing, education, and healthcare facilities, while creating hundreds of skilled and unskilled local jobs. Global Nuclear Power Outlook By the end of 2024, approximately 417 nuclear reactors were operational worldwide, with a combined capacity of 377 GW, generating 2,667 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity. Currently, 70 nuclear reactors are under construction across 15 countries, with a planned capacity of 64.5 GW.

according to IAEA data, global nuclear capacity is projected to reach 992 GW by 2050. Meanwhile, 31 countries have committed to tripling nuclear power capacity by mid-century. GlobalData estimates current nuclear generation capacity at 395 GW, which could rise to 494 GW by 2035. SMR deployment is also gaining momentum globally, with several European and Asian countries already adopting the technology.

the IAEA estimates that 24% of new nuclear capacity could come from SMRs.

the United States has also begun work on micro modular reactors, reinforcing nuclear power’s future role in low-carbon development. Bangladesh’s Nuclear Future Once operational, RNPP will supply 2,400 MW of baseload, non-carbon electricity and is expected to reduce annual carbon emissions by 7 million tonnes.

over its 60-year lifespan, emissions reductions could reach 600 million tonnes. Bangladesh’s Integrated Energy and Power Master Plan targets 10,000 MW of nuclear capacity by 2050.

experts believe the Rooppur site could accommodate two additional 1,200 MW units at a lower marginal cost. Conclusion The latest delay at Rooppur highlights the complexity of delivering a nuclear power project amid geopolitical uncertainty, regulatory rigor, and domestic political change. While missed deadlines have tested public patience, the cautious approach reflects the realities of nuclear safety and international compliance. With construction nearly complete, local expertise fully mobilized, and international oversight ongoing, Bangladesh stands closer than ever to entering the nuclear power era. Fuel loading, expected in early 2026, will mark a historic turning point. Yet full commercial operation of Unit 1 is unlikely before late 2026, with both units reaching full capacity by 2027. Rooppur is more than a power plant.

it is a technological leap, a strategic investment in energy security, and a long-term commitment to low-carbon development.

the final steps may be slow-but for nuclear power, precision matters more than speed.

The World Bank will invest in a huge 4GW, 5.12GWh solar-plusstorage complex in Malaysia, part of a pan-Southeast Asian power grid initiative.

the Southern Johor Renewable Energy Corridor (SJREC) will be a roughly 2 , 0 0 0 – s q u a r e kilometre area dedicated to solar PV and energy storage capacity. The US$6.0 billion project is backed by the World Bank’s private investment arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), alongside the state investment firm of Johor, Permodalan Darul Ta’zim (PDT), and Ditrolic Energy, a Malaysian integrated energy company. The project is part of a number of larger schemes, chiefly the ASEAN Power Grid Initiative, a plan to integrate power grids and energy supply across Southeast Asian nations.

in this vein, the SJREC will be part of the Johor- Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ) ‘masterplan’, able to transmit clean energy to Singapore, which sits on Johor’s southern border.

With the National Election scheduled for February 12, 2026, Bangladesh has formally entered election mode. Political activity is set to intensify, public debate will sharpen, and expectations from the next government are already taking shape.

amid this transition, attention is increasingly turning to what the interim government leaves behind, particularly in sectors critical to economic stability and long-term growth.

the interim administration, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus and in power since August 2024, was entrusted with more than day-to-day governance.

as a nonpolitical and ostensibly neutral authority, it was widely expected to address deeprooted governance failures and initiate structural reforms in key backbone sectors of the economy.

the energy and power sector, long plagued by inefficiency, corruption, and policy inconsistency, ranked high on that reform agenda. Sixteen months on, however, a neutral assessment suggests that expectations have only been partially met. While a few corrective steps were taken, the overall approach remained largely ‘business as usual,’ leaving Bangladesh’s energy security fragile at a time when resilience and reform were most needed.

electricity generation costs and system losses increased, the primary fuel supply crisis deepened, and despite substantial subsidies, the financial condition of stateowned enterprises-BPDB, Petrobangla, and BPC-did not improve.

the government did make a promising start by canceling the non-transparent Quick Enhancement of Electricity and Energy Supply (Special Provisions) Act and restoring the sole authority of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) to determine fuel and electricity prices. However, it failed to take action against those responsible for massive irregularities and corruption. No meaningful steps were taken to exploit discovered coal resources or to expedite onshore and offshore petroleum exploration.

the government hesitated in adopting a clear strategy for utilizing Bhola gas resources and failed to significantly increase the contribution of clean energy.

although changes were made in senior positions of state-owned enterprises, bureaucrats continued to dominate the energy and power sector, much like under previous governments. The sector could have benefited from better planning and implementation had experienced professionals with institutional memory been given responsibility.

as a result, a power system with huge surplus capacity continues to suffer from fuel shortages and mounting capacity payment obligations.

the government achieved limited success in streamlining outstanding payment obligations, providing temporary relief to BPDB and Petrobangla from large arrears owed to power and fuel suppliers. However, this improvement proved short-lived, and the situation soon reverted to its previous state.

the interim government is now set to leave behind an insecure and fragile energy and power sector for the incoming administration.

actions Taken and Impacts The interim government’s decision to cancel the controversial and non-transparent *Speedy Power Supply Special Act 2010* and to restore the sole authority of BERC in fuel and power price determination was widely welcomed.

the appointment of competent officials in institutions such as BERC, SREDA, and BEPRC generated some positive momentum.

there was also an expectation that the interim government would objectively review the structure of BPDB, power generation companies, Petrobangla and its subsidiaries, BPI, BPMI, HCU, GSB, BMD, and other state-owned energy and power entities, freeing them from excessive bureaucratic control.

that expectation largely went unmet.

interim Government Will Leave Behind a Very Insecure Energy Sector When the new government takes office next year, it will inherit a highly insecure and uncertain energy and power sector.

among its key failures, the interim government did not adequately identify, or deliberately avoided identifying, irregularities and corruption within the sector.

a white paper prepared by a government-appointed committee correctly identified the power and energy sector as the most corruptionprone.

the report stated that corruption had doubled the cost of power generation.

under the previous regime, excessive generation capacity was established without ensuring adequate fuel supply, largely benefiting favored syndicates through capacity payment provisions. Many of these contracts were awarded without formal tendering, and the necessary transmission infrastructure was not developed to evacuate the power generated.

as a result, BPDB has had to pay exorbitant amounts to power suppliers, covering both energy charges and capacity payments. Some contracts allegedly favored specific contractors.

the interim government failed to act on the white paper’s recommendations to investigate these irregularities and hold those responsible accountable.

instead, the energy adviser publicly admitted that ‘politicians, bureaucrats, and businesses do not want to get rid of irregularities and corruption.’ Another major shortcoming was the failure to expedite and complete the remaining works of the otherwise wellperforming Rooppur Nuclear Power Project. Delays could have been avoided had experienced project management not been replaced at a critical stage. Credit must be given to the government for appointing capable officials at BERC. Under improved leadership, the regulator has performed better over the past year and has begun holding its licensees more accountable.

as noted earlier, the interim government was expected to take pragmatic decisions on exploring and exploiting domestic fuel resources.

it could have reassessed coal mining options and prepared the groundwork for an elected government to take informed decisions.

instead, it did virtually nothing. Given the current policy environment, domestic coal exploitation now appears unlikely in the near future.

the government also failed to finalize updated Model Production Sharing Contracts (MPSCs) for new bidding rounds to engage international oil companies in onshore and offshore exploration. Drafts prepared by Petrobangla reportedly remain stuck at the Energy Ministry. Approval of MPSCs could have enabled fresh tenders in early 2026, a prospect that now seems remote.

the interim government deserves some credit for restructuring BAPEX’s board and supporting its operational activities, which helped complete workover and rehabilitation of several gas wells. However, these efforts resulted in only marginal increases in domestic gas production.

at the same time, the government remained indecisive on utilizing the stranded gas resources of the Bhola gas field.

at a time of acute energy poverty, Bhola gas could have provided meaningful relief to the gasstarved national grid and reduced reliance on expensive imported LNG. LNG or CNG options for Bhola gas are not viable; connecting the fields to the national grid via Barishal to Khulna remains the most practical solution.

a regional transmission pipeline would also encourage foreign investment in exploration and stimulate industrial development in the Khulna and Barishal regions. Without professionally reviewing the necessity of key contracts signed under the previous regime, the government canceled all agreements made under the speedy power supply act.

one such casualty was the third FSRU project. Had it proceeded, Bangladesh could have added around 500 MMCFD of RLNG supply capacity by 2029.

the government neither floated a new FSRU contract nor expedited the land-based LNG terminal project of Petrobangla.

as a result, chronic gas shortages will remain the Achilles’ heel of the incoming government.

the Chief Adviser’s ‘three-zero’ vision gained little traction in energy transmission, and progress in renewable energy remained limited. Bangladesh does not have unlimited renewable potential, and the interim government did little to overcome bureaucratic hurdles slowing clean energy development.

to its credit, the energy adviser acknowledged these challenges.

the hope now is that the government leaves behind at least a realistic roadmap for energy transition. Conclusion It is understood that the interim government did not possess a magic solution to resolve Bangladesh’s deep-rooted energy crisis within a year. However, as a non-political authority, it had a unique opportunity to initiate essential structural reforms- improving governance, strengthening domestic resource exploration, optimizing fuel utilization, reducing losses, and enhancing efficiency.

the interim government could have restructured governance processes and finalized a comprehensive power and energy system master plan. While it avoided entering into new controversial agreements, its overall performance fell short of expectations.

it is now up to the incoming government to give the energy and power sector the priority it deserves, recognizing it as a strategic pillar of national economic development

Summit LNG Terminal Co. (Pvt.) Ltd. (‘SLNG’) is privileged to celebrate the milestone completion of its 250th Ship-to-Ship (STS) operation, achieved with consistent commitment to world-class safety and operational excellence. During the 2024-2025 financial year alone, the terminal has supplied approximately 13% of the country’s total gas demand, playing an indispensable role in ensuring Bangladesh’s energy security. Since its commissioning in April 2019, SLNG has received 35,054,637 m³ of LNG and supplied approximately 785,549,295 MMBTU of Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) to the national gas grid. SLNG conveys its sincere appreciation to Excelerate Energy LP and PSA Marine, Singapore for their exemplary contributions in maintaining safe, efficient, and uninterrupted STS and terminal operations.

The major barrier to renewable energy expansion is the people in the power and energy sector themselves, said Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, power, energy and mineral resources adviser. Many government officials in the sector have engaged with businesses and would lose their transactional benefits if a transparent and competitive system is introduced, he said. ‘We are trying to transition from such a system and it is not being liked by most of them.

they want to continue the previous system of dealings, negotiations and under-the-table transactions,’ he said at the closing ceremony of Bangladesh Energy Conference 2025 recently.

the adviser said they also want to get rid of fossil fuel usage but their dependence is by compulsion and not by choice. ‘If we had the opportunity, we would stop purchasing LNG (liquified natural gas) and would shut down the coalbased power plants,’ he added.

the conference has announced a 22-point Dhaka Declaration towards Net Zero carbon emission and a 13-point Citizen Manifesto. Hasan Mehedi, member secretary of the Bangladesh Working Group on Ecology and Development, read out the Dhaka Declaration.

The UN recently unveiled its largestever scientific assessment on the dire state of the environment, but a crucial summary of its findings was torpedoed as nations feuded over fossil fuels.

the dispute over the Global Environment Outlook echoes a growing trend in consensusbased negotiations where oil-producing countries in particular are frustrating efforts to address pollution from fossil fuels and plastic.

the UN Environment Program (UNEP) said it was the first time that countries had failed to produce a politicallynegotiated summary of the mammoth report, which is published roughly every five years and involves hundreds of scientists. Since first being published in 1997, UNEP’s flagship outlook reports have been accompanied by a summary for policymakers: a political statement, negotiated line by line, that distils the science into plain language for governments.

under United Nations rules, this can only be approved by consensus as it serves as a collective understanding of the latest science in a way policy leaders can act upon. But at a five-day meeting in late October to approve the summary, sharp divisions over the text made consensus impossible.

Bangladesh’s i n d e p e n d e n t p o w e r producers (IPPs) are struggling with prolonged g o v e r n m e n t payment delays, which they say are disrupting their fuel p r o c u r e m e n t and financial obligations, and warn that such disruptions could hamper the sector’s power supply reliability.

according to officials from the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) and IPPs, the BPDB now owes more than Tk27,000 crore to over 70 local and foreign IPPs, with nearly Tk17,000 crore owed to local producers and the rest to foreign-backed ventures. IPP owners said payments are currently delayed by up to 6-7 months beyond the due dates, creating severe liquidity pressures across the sector. Several private power producers have already written to the BPDB chairman, cautioning that prolonged delays threaten the entire sector’s sustainability.

Bangladesh has so far received US$17.34 billion in 106 projects from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), including nearly $6.0 billion for 36 gas-focused schemes that collectively support 3,659MW generation capacity, a new study has revealed. Civil society groups say this long-standing reliance on fossil fuel lending is now undermining the country’s energy security and climate resilience.

the report titled ‘MDBs in the Energy Sector of Bangladesh’ shows that ADB’s gasrelated financing has been overwhelmingly loan-driven, with 60 per cent coming from its Technical Assistance Special Fund and 36 per cent from high-interest Ordinary Capital Resources (OCR). Only 4 per cent, totaling $2.59 million, was provided through concessional Asian Development Fund support. Presented at the Bangladesh Energy Conference recently, the study argues that this financing pattern has contributed to mounting debt, stranded capacity and avoidable emissions. Campaigners warn that ADB’s fossil-heavy strategy has increased Bangladesh’s exposure to fuel shortages, costly capacity payments and high-risk energy infrastructure at a time when global investment is shifting rapidly towards cleaner, cheaper and more resilient alternatives.

Adani Group announces its foray into the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) sector with a pioneering 1126 MW / 3530 MWh project. This means that BESS would be able to store 3530 MWh of energy – extending power capacity of 1126 MW by ~3 hrs). This project, entailing deployment of more than 700 BESS containers, will be the largest BESS installation in India and one of the world’s largest single-location BESS deployments.

this historic project will be commissioned by March 2026.

this strategic initiative is a major step toward enhancing India’s energy security, enabling round-the-clock clean electricity and supporting the country’s transition to a low-carbon future. The BESS will play a critical role in easing peak load pressures, reducing transmission congestion, and mitigating solar curtailment, thereby improving grid reliability and efficiency.

the project is in the advance stages of deployment at Khavda, the worlds’ largest renewable energy plant.

the project is being developed with cuttingedge lithium-ion battery technology and is being integrated with advanced energy management systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability.