National Energy Policy 2004 Bangladesh

GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH
MINISTRY OF POWER, ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
NATIONAL ENERGY POLICY
DHAKA, MAY 2004

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0. INTRODUCTION ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1
1.1 Background ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

1.2 Objectives ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2
2.0. EXISTING INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS----------------------------------------- 3
3.0. ENERGY RESOURCES --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
3.1 Primary commercial energy resources---------------------------------------------------------- 4

3.2 Primary Biomass Fuels---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
3.3 Animal Power--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
3.4 New renewable Energy Technologies ----------------------------------------------------------- 4
3.4.1 Mini-Hydro ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
3.4.2 Solar Energy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
3.4.3 Wind Energy---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
3.4.4 Tidal Energy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
3.4.5 Wave Energy --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
3.4.6 Bio-Mass -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
3.4.7 River Current --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
3.4.8 Waste to Electrical Energy------------------------------------------------------------------ 7
3.5 Imported fuels -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
4.0. Status of energy consumption --------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
4.1 Primary energy sources --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8

4.1.1 Use of Natural gas --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
4.1.2 Oil Potential----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
4.1.3 Coal Prospects -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
4.1.4 Peat Prospects -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
4.1.5 Use of Biomass Fuels------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9
4.1.6 Use of Renewable Energy Sources ------------------------------------------------------ 10
4.1.7 Use of Imported Fuels --------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
4.2 Power ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11
4.2.1 Power Generation Distribution & Consumption --------------------------------------- 11
4.2.2 Rural electrification Programme --------------------------------------------------------- 11
4.2.3 Load management-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
4.2.4 System Losses ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12
4.3 Final Energy Consumption --------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
4.4 Energy Conservation ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
4.5 Rural Energy Needs------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 13
5.0. Supply options for the development of energy resources---------------------------------- 14
5.1 Current Option ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14

5.2 Reference Option--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
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5.3 Observations on the Supply Options ---------------------------------------------------------- 15
5.4 Observation on the Use of Indigenous Natural Gas----------------------------------------- 15
6.0. Policy Issues----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
6.1 Database ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 17

6.2 Resources Assessment --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
6.3 Technology Assessment ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
6.4 Management of Gas Systems ------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
6.5 Management of Petroleum Fuels -------------------------------------------------------------- 18
6.6 Management of Coal----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
6.7 Management of Power System ----------------------------------------------------------------- 18
6.8 Energy Conservation ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
6.9 Environment Consideration -------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
6.10 mining inside the forest areas ------------------------------------------------------------------ 19
6.11 Pricing Policy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 19
6.12 Investment Policy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
6.13 Zonal Distribution of Energy ------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
6.14 Area-based Energy Planing -------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
6.15 Strategic / Emergency Stock -------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
6.16 Implementation and Evaluation of Projects -------------------------------------------------- 20
6.17 Research and Development --------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
6.18 Human Resources Development --------------------------------------------------------------- 21
6.19 Institutional Issues ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
6.20 Legal Issues --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
6.21 Regional / International Cooperation --------------------------------------------------------- 22
6.22 Energy Advisory counCIl ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
7.0. recommended energy policy --------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
7.1 NON-RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY ------------------------------------------------------ 23

7.1.1 Assessment of Indigenous Resources --------------------------------------------------- 23
7.1.2 Supply and Augmentation of Indigenous Resources ---------------------------------- 23
7.1.3 Reduction of Imbalance in Energy Consumption-------------------------------------- 24
7.1.4 Fuel Mix------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
7.1.5 Allocation of Non-Renewable Energy Sources ---------------------------------------- 25
7.1.6 Pricing Policy------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
7.1.7 Conservation -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
7.1.8 System Loss Reduction ------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
7.1.9 Environment Policy------------------------------------------------------------------------ 27
7.1.10 Emergency Stocks ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
7.1.11 Investment and Lending Terms ---------------------------------------------------------- 28
7.1.12 Project Planning and Implementation --------------------------------------------------- 29
7.1.13 Institutional Issues ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29
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7.1.14 Participation of Private Sector------------------------------------------------------------ 30
7.1.15 Research and Development --------------------------------------------------------------- 30
7.1.16 Human Resource Development ---------------------------------------------------------- 30
7.1.17 Legal Issues --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31
7.2 Petroleum Policy --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31
7.2.1 Objective ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 31
7.2.2 Implementation ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31
7.2.3 Oil Refining--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
7.2.4 Lubricating Oil ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
7.2.5 Marketing and Distribution --------------------------------------------------------------- 34
7.2.6 Liquefied petroleum Gas (LPG) --------------------------------------------------------- 35
7.2.7 Research and Development --------------------------------------------------------------- 35
7.2.8 CNG in Transport -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35
7.2.9 Safety and Environmental Protection --------------------------------------------------- 35
7.3 Marginal Gas Field Development Policy ----------------------------------------------------- 36
7.3.1 A. OBJECTIVES-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36
7.3.2 B. DETERMINATION OF MARGINAL GAS FIELDS------------------------- 36
7.3.1 Welfare -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38
7.4 Renewable and Rural Energy Policy ---------------------------------------------------------- 38
7.4.1 General Policy Issues ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 38
7.4.2 RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY ----------------------------------------------------- 39
7.5 Power Policy-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
7.5.1 Demand forecast --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
7.5.2 Long Term Planning and Project Implementation------------------------------------- 46
7.5.3 Investment and lending terms ------------------------------------------------------------ 46
7.5.4 Fuels and Technologies ------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
7.5.5 Power Supply to the West Zone---------------------------------------------------------- 48
7.5.6 Power Supply to Isolated and Remote Load Centres---------------------------------- 48
7.5.7 Tariff ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
7.5.8 Captive and Stand-by Generation-------------------------------------------------------- 49
7.5.9 System Loss Reduction ------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
7.5.10 Load Management and Conservation --------------------------------------------------- 50
7.5.11 Reliability of Supply----------------------------------------------------------------------- 51
7.5.12 System stability----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
7.5.13 load Dispatching --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
7.5.14 Institutional Issues ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
7.5.15 Private Sector Participation --------------------------------------------------------------- 54
7.5.16 Organizational and Human Resource Development ---------------------------------- 55
7.5.17 Regional / International Co-operation--------------------------------------------------- 56
7.5.18 Technology Transfer and Research Program------------------------------------------- 56
7.5.19 Environmental Policy---------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
7.5.20 Legal Issues --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
7.6 Rural Electrification Policy--------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
7.6.1 General Policy Issues ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
7.6.2 Specific Policy Issues---------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
F. DEMAND ESTIMATION AND PLANNING ---------------------------------------------------- 57
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1 Agencies Responsible for Planning of the Energy Sector
Table 2.2 Agencies Involved in Development and Management of the Energy

Sector
Table 3.1 Presently Known and Exploitable Indigenous Primary Energy Resources
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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ABPL Asphaltic Bitumen Plant
ACRE Area Coverage Rural Electrification
ADB Asian Development Bank
ADP Annual Development Programme
BAEC Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission
BAPEX Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration Co. Ltd.
BAU Business As Usual Option
BBL Barrels
BBM Bangladesh Bureau of Mines
BCF Billion (109) Cubic Feet
BCSIR Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
BEPP Bangladesh Energy Planning Project
BGFCL Bangladesh Gas Fields Co. Ltd.
BGSL Bakhrabad Gas System Ltd.
BMEDC Bangladesh Mineral Exploration and Development Corporation
BMRE Balancing Modernisation Rehabilitation and Expansion
BOGC Bangladesh Oil and Gas Corporation (Short name Petrobangla)
BOGMC Bangladesh Oil, Gas and Mineral Corporation (Short name of

Petrobangla)
BPC Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation
BPDB Bangladesh Power Development Board
BPI Bangladesh Petroleum Institute
BUET Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology
CBM Coal Bed Methane
CNG Compressed Natural Gas
CUFL Chittagong Urea Fertilizer Factory, Chittagong
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DESA Dhaka Electricity Authority
DOE Department of Environment
DOF Department of Forest
DU Dhaka University
EA & CEI Electrical Advisor and Chief Electric Inspector
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
ELBP Eastern Lube Blending Plant
EMCC Energy Monitoring and Conservation Center
ERC Energy Regulatory Commission
ERL Eastern Refinery Ltd.
FBCCI Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries
FO Furnace Oil
GOB Government of Bangladesh
GSB Geological Survey of Bangladesh
GT Gas Turbine
GTC
Gas Transmission Company
GW Giva (109) Watt
GWh Giga (109) Watt Hour
HHS Hydrocarbon Habitat Compound
HOBC High Octane Blending Compound
HSD High Speed Diesel
HYV
IMED Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division
JBO Jute Batching Oil
JFCL Jamuna Fertilizer Company Ltd.
JGTDSL Jalalabad Gas Transmission and Distribution Systems Ltd.
JOCL Jamuna Oil Company Ltd.
JP-1 Jet Petrol-1
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KAFCO Karnafuli Fertilizer Co. Ltd., Chittagong
DFAED Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development
KFW Kreditsalt Fur Wiederaufbau
KGOE Lilogram Oil Equivalent
LDO Light Diesel Oil
LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas
LRMC Long Run Marginal Cost
MCF Thousand Cubic Feet
MIS
Management Information System
MJ Mega (106) Joule
MMCF Million Cubic Feet
MMCFD Million Cubic Feet Per Day
MOA Ministry of Agriculture
MOEF Ministry of Environment and Forest
MOEMR Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources
MOFL Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
MOI Ministry of Industries
MPL Meghna Petroleum Ltd.
MS Motor Spirit
MT
Mineral Turpentine
MW Mega (106) Watt
NEP National Energy Policy
NEPFC National Energy Policy Formulation Committee
NGFF Natural Gas Fertilizer Factory, Fenchuganj
NGL Natural Gas Liquid
ODA Overseas Development Agency
OECF Overseas Economic Co-operation Fund
PBS Palli Biddyut Samity (Rural Electric Co-operative)
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PJ Peta Joule = 1015 Jule
POCL Padma Oil Company Ltd.
PSC Production Sharing Contract
PSIG Pound Per Square Inch Gauge
PSMP Power System Master Plan
PUFF Polash Urea Fertilizer Factory, Ghorashal
REB Rural Electrification Board
REDA Renewable Energy Development Agency
RPDCL Rupantarito Prakritik Gas Co. Ltd.
SAOCL Standard Asiatic Oil Company Ltd.
SGFL Sylhet Gas Fields Ltd.
SKO Superior Kerosene Oil
SLA Side Loan Agreement
ST Stem Turbine
TCF Trillion (1012) Cubic Feet
TGTDCL Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Ltd.
TJ Tera (1012) Joule
Tonne Thousand Kilogram
UFFG Urea Fertilizer Factory Ltd., Ghorashal
WB World Bank
ZFCL Zia Fertilizer Co. Ltd, Ashuganj
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UNITS AND CONVERSION FACTORS
Units
1 MCF 1000 Cubic Feet (One Thousand Cubic Feet)
1 MMCF 1,000,000 Cubic Feet (one Million Cubic Feet)
1 KW 1 Kilo Watt = 103 Watt
1 MW 1 Mega Watt = 106 Watt
1 GW 1 Giga Watt = 109 Watt
1 GJ 1 Giga Joule = 109 Joule
1 PJ 1 Peta Joule = 1015 Joule
1 TOE 1 Tonne Oil Equivalent = 42.7 GJ
1 MTOE 1 Million Tonne Oil Equivalent
1 Million 106
1 km 1 Kilometer
CONVERSION FACTORS
Agri. & Tree Res. 1000 Tonne = 0.0125 PJ
Crude Oil 1000 Tonne = 0.0427 PJ
Coal 1000 Tonne = 0.027 PJ
Dung 1000 Tonne = 0.0116 PJ
Electricity 1 GWh = 0.0036 PJ
Fuelwood 1000 Tonne = 0.0151 PJ
Natural Gas 1 MMCF = 0.00099 PJ
Petroleum Products (Av.) 1000 Tonne = 0.0427 PJ
Peat 1000 Tonne = 0.0151 PJ
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CONCEPTS AND DEFINITIONS
Commercial Energy: Energy sources that pass wholly or almost entirely through the
organized market system are defined as commercial energy (e.g. coal, oil, gas electricity
etc.) commercial energy sources are considered under national accounting system.
Although fuelwood and charcoal are traded and fuelwood extracted from reserve forests
are included in national accounting system, they are not consider as commercial energy.
Contingent Resources: Contingent resources are discovered resources but not

commercially producible at present time due to economic, political, environmental or
other technical reasons.
East Zone: Geographical area on the east side of the rivers Jamuna and Meghna, which
means Chittangong, Dhaka and Sylhet divisions excluding greater Faridpur District.
Final Energy : The energy made available to the end-users for final utilization, or energy
consumed by the final user for all energy purposes. Final energy excludes all energy lost
in the transformation of primary to secondary energy, energy used within the
transformation industries, and energy lost in the distribution process.
Hypothetical Resources: Hypothetical resources comprise resources which are

mapped in the form of prospects, but which have not been discovered by drilling.
Marginal Gas Field: In Bangladesh 22 gas fields of sizes ranging from 25 to 4000 Bcf
have so far been discovered. Fifteen of these gas fields have been brought under
production. Some of these fields, which have been in the process of depletion for
continued production over time, have become commercially unviable and remained
unattended. There are yet other gas fields, which have not been put under operation for
want of commercial viability right from the beginning. All these gas fields, which have no
apparent prospect for further development under the existing techno-economic
considerations, may be termed marginal/abandoned.
Non-Commercial Energy: Energy which is derived from traditional sources such as

woodfuels (e.g. fuelwood, other tree Biomass and sawdust), agricultural residues (e.g.
husk, straw, jute sticks etc.), animal dung are known as non-commercial energy.
Non-Renewable Resources: A more general term referring to the geological

endowment of minerals in the earth’s crust in such concentration that commercial
extraction is either presently or potentially feasible.
Petroleum Resources originally in-place: Petroleum resources originally in-place

comprises the resources, which are mapped/unmapped by geological and geophysical
methods and are estimated by geological and petroleum technological methods, to be in
place in a defined area/deposit.
Possible Reserves: Possible reserves are those unproved reserves which by analysis
of geological and engineering data suggests are less likely to be recoverable than
probable reserve.
Primary Energy : The energy available from energy sources extracted from stock of
reserves within the country and imported from foreign countries. Some of the primary
energy need processing (e.g. crude oil) before its use.
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Probable Reserves: Probable reserves are those unproved reserves which by analysis
of geological and engineering data suggest are more likely to be recoverable. Producing
reserves are expected to be recovered from completion intervals, which are open and
producing at the time of the estimate.
Proved Developed Reserves: Developed reserves are expected to be recovered from

existing wells including reserves behind pipe. Improved recovery reserves are
considered developed only after the necessary equipment has been installed, or when
the costs to do so are relatively minor. Developed reserves may be subcategorized as
producing or non-producing.
Proved Reserves: Proved reserves are those quantities of petroleum which, by analysis
of geological and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be
commercially recoverable, from a given date forward, from known reservoirs and under
current economic conditions, operating methods and government regulations. Proved
reserves can be divided into two groups: Developed Reserves and Undeveloped
Reserves.
Proved Undeveloped Reserves: Undeveloped reserves are expected to be recovered

from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from deepening existing wells to a different
reservoir, or where a large expenditure is required to re-complete an existing well or
install production or transport facilities for primary or improved recovery.
Renewable Biomass Fuels: Biomass is generally defined as the organic matter

produced by photosynthesis process in plant kingdom. Biomass resources which are
used as fuel such as woodfuels, agricultural residues, animal dung etc. are termed as
Biomass fuels. These fuels are also termed as traditional fuels. Biomass fuels are
renewable upto the limit of its sustainable yield.
Renewable Energy: Energy sources which are regenerated after a regular time cycle
are commonly known as “renewable sources of energy” e.g. hydro, solar radiation, wind
energy, wave power, tidal power and Biomass fuels etc.
Renewable Non-Biomass Energy: Energy sources such as solar radiation, wind

energy, wave power ,tidal energy etc. are examples of renewable non-Biomass Energy
Sources.
Reserves: Reserves are those quantities of petroleum, which are anticipated to be

commercially recoverable from known accumulations from a given date forward.
Rural Energy: Types of energy consumed in rural areas, namely commercial energy,
biomass fuels and renewable energy sources, which are used to meet the demand of
different end use sectors, namely agriculture, domestic, commercial, industrial and
transport.
Secondary Energy : The energy available after transformation of a primary energy

source (e.g. electricity)
Speculative Resources: Speculative resources is referred to the unmapped prospects

that have not been mapped in the basin. The unmapped resources are estimated by play
assessment methods.
Sustainable Supply (Biomass Fuels): Sustainable supply would not cause net
depletion (i.g. deforestation) of biomass fuels or would not deprive the soil from its
availability as recycled natural nutrients.
xii
Useful Energy : The amount of heat, light or work actually made available to a final
user of energy (domestic, industry, transport etc.) on the output side or the user’s
equipment and appliances.
West Zone: Geographical area on the west side of the rivers Jamuna and Meghna,
which means Barisal, Khulna, Rajshahi division and greater Faridpur District.
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1.0. INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
In recognition of the importance of energy in socio-economic development, the

Government of Bangladesh has given continuing attention to the overall development of
energy sector. It involved survey, exploration, exploitation and distribution of indigenous
natural gas; establishment of petroleum refining facility and distribution systems; and
establishment of power generation plants and networks for transmission and distribution
of electricity. During last one decade, about 20 percent of total public sector investment
was allocated for the development of energy sector.
Despite all these efforts per-capita consumption of commercial energy and generation of
electricity in 2000 were about 200 KGOE / year and 120 kWh / year respectively. Per
capita consumption of commercial energy and electricity in Bangladesh in one of the
lowest among the developing countries. At present about 65% of total final energy
consumption is met by different type of biomass fuels (e.g. agricultural residues, wood
fuels, animal dung etc.).
In 2000 only 2.2% of total households (mostly in urban areas) had piped natural gas
connections for cooking and 30% of households had electricity connections and only
3.9% of total households used kerosene for cooking.
Shortcomings of the past energy development programmes and management practices

are identified as follows.
(a) Due to shortage of capital it has not been possible to undertake systematic survey,
exploration and exploitation of energy resources throughout the country. As a result,
it has not been possible to ensure balanced development of energy resources of
different zones of the country and balanced development of different sub-sectors of
the energy sector.
(b) Due to shortage of capital it has not been possible to undertake systematic
development of Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution projects and
rational use of electricity in the country.
(c) Necessary attention has not been given to formulate appropriate policies to
encourage private sector participation in energy sector development programme to
meet the shortage of fund.
(d) Development programmes of energy consuming sectors (e.g. industrial sector) have
been constrained due to shortage and unreliable supply of commercial energy.
(e) Energy agencies have not been operated and managed efficiently.
(f) Energy prices have not been set on a rational basis.
(g) Effective measures have not been taken to ensure rational use of energy
(h) Unplanned and inefficient use of fuels are contributing to environmental degradation.
(i) Adequate attention has not been given to meet the total energy needs of rural areas.
(j) Adequate attention has not been given to undertake systematic research
programmes to develop indigenous technological capabilities.
NEP_draft_2004_fulldoc.doc 10/05/2004 1
(k) Adequate attention has not been given to develop trained manpower for the efficient
management of the sector.
In the above context the Government formulated and announced the first National
Energy Policy (NEP) of the county in 1996 to ensure proper exploration, production,
distribution and rational use of energy sources to meet the growing energy demand of
different zones, consuming sectors and consumers groups on a sustainable basis. With
rapid change of global as well as domestic situation it has been decided to update this
NEP.
1.2 OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the revised National Energy Policy (NEP) are outlined as follows.
(i) To provide energy for sustainable economic growth so that the economic
development activities of different sectors are not constrained due to shortage of
energy.
(ii) To meet the energy needs of different zones of the country and socio-economic
groups.
(iii) To ensure optimum development of all the indigenous energy sources.
(iv) To ensure sustainable operation of the energy utilities
(v) To ensure rational use of total energy sources.
(vi) To ensure environmentally sound sustainable energy development programmes

causing minimum damage to environment.
(vii) To encourage public and private sector participation in the development and
management of the energy sector.
(viii) To bring entire country under electrification by the year 2020.
(ix) To ensure reliable supply of energy to the people at reasonable and affordable
price.
(x) To develop a regional energy market for rational exchange of commercial energy
to ensure energy security.
2.0. EXISTING INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
In addition to the Planning Commission, different Ministries and agencies are involved
directly and indirectly with the planning of commercial energy resources and biomass
fuels as shown in Table 2.1. Different Ministries and agencies involved with overall
development and management of energy resources are shown in Table 2.2.
3.0. ENERGY RESOURCES
3.1 PRIMARY COMMERCIAL ENERGY RESOURCES
Presently known primary commercial energy resources of the country include natural
gas, oil, coal, and hydro-electricity. Established quantity known and exploitable
commercial energy resources are shown in Table 3.1. Existing known reserves of
commercial energy sources are modest in comparison to development needs of the
country.
In Bangladesh efforts have been continuing to make the exploration for energy
resources comprehensive and systematic. There are prospects for augmentation of
reserves through systematic surveys and exploration, for which investment by the public
and private sector is essential.
3.2 PRIMARY BIOMASS FUELS
Biomass is defined as all organic matters produced by photosynthesis process especially

in plant kingdom. Depending upon their characteristics and quality, biomass resources
are used as food, fodder, building materials, fuel and manure. Only a fraction of total
biomass is used as fuel. In Bangladesh, biomass fuels are obtained from three sources.
Trees (e.g. woodfuels), Field crops (e.g. agricultural residues) and Livestock (e.g. animal
dung), Land is the ultimate resources base that supports the production of total biomass
resources.
As the biomass fuels are consumed near the place of its production, for their planned
development, there is a need to assess the demand and regenerative supply of different
biomass fuels specific to different locations (e.g. district/thana/village etc.)
3.3 ANIMAL POWER
There are about 10.3 million draught animals including 0.7 million cows. Milch cows are
used for land preparation to meet the shortage of draught cattle. At present power tillers
and tractors are used to meet the shortage of animal draught power. Energy need for
these devices is accounted under agriculture sector.
3.4 NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES
The Global shortage of non-renewable energy sources presents one of the major
concerns of mankind today. Though, energy derived from oil, gas and coal will play a
vital role in meeting a growing demand for many years to come, the realization of the
exhaustive nature of world’s fossil fuels have focused interest and effort on harnessing
alternative energy resources. Time has come to exploit full potential of renewable energy
resource which is free from environmental pollution, keep control over deforestation and
managing atmospheric emission.
3.4.1 Mini-Hydro
Assessment of low head hydro-power potentials in Bangladesh has been undertaken in

recent years. Twenty three sites of hydro-power plant ranging in capacity from 10 kw to 5
mw have been located in the flat plains with available capacities for the 6 month, June to
October. No plant has yet been installed.
3.4.2 Solar Energy
Solar heat has been used in Bangladesh for centuries in a variety of economic activities
such as drying of washed clothes, food-grains, fish, vegetable, raw jute, etc. and
evaporation of saline water for salt production. There are various activities in rural
Bangladesh which depend totally on the use of solar energy and if these could be
performed more quickly and efficiently by using simple devices, it would increase
productivity without making and demand on commercial energy sources.
The long-term average sunshine data indicates that the period of bright (i.e. more than
200 watts/sq.m intensity) sunshine hours in the coastal region of Bangladesh varies from
3 to 11 hours daily. The global radiation varies from 3.8 kwh/sq.m/day to 6.4
kwh/sq.m/day. These data indicate that there are good prospects for solar thermal and
photovoltaic application in Bangladesh. It was found that during and after a disaster
(cyclone) over some islands and coastal belts of Bangladesh in 1991, the photovoltaic
generation of Sandwip Island was the only source of energy to provide to communication
link between the people of the island with the main land when all other communications
were totally disrupted.
With good to excellent solar resource available in the country throughout the year, there
is a good potential for PV in unelectrified villages, if affordable products meeting
consumer needs can be supplied and supported with dealing cost of solar panel. In this
way solar technology can be extremely beneficial for remote areas of Bangladesh.
At the moment total installed capacity is under 100 KWp in applications ranging from
lanterns to power for Hospital.
3.4.3 Wind Energy
The long term wind flow of Bangladesh (specifically in islands and the southern coastal
belt of the country) indicate that the average wind speed remains between 3 to 4.5 m/s
for the months of March to September and 1.7 to 2.3 m/s for remaining period of the
year. There is a good opportunity in island and coastal areas for the application of wind
mills for pumping and electricity generation. But during the summer and monsoon
seasons, (March to October) there can be very low-pressure areas and storm wind
speeds of 200 to 300 kmph can be expected. Wind turbines should be strong enough to
withstand these high wind speeds.
Local knowledge of wind resources appear to indicate the potential for wind energy use
in the coastal areas of Bangladesh for both grid applications and for isolated village
electrification. However, measured resource data of adequate quality is lacking.
Bangladesh is strongly influenced by the southwest monsoon winds that blow from about
March to October. These winds are further strengthened as they pass through the V-
shaped coastline of Bangladesh. It is these monsoon winds that have made possible
extensive wind farm developments in India, where, for example, more than 200 MW are
operating in Tamil Nadu. Wind speeds are expected to be high enough for economic grid
power generation to feed the main grid or for isolated grids in wind-diesel hybrid
configurations.
Good quality wind date for one year is now available for Patenga, Chittagong, a potential
wind farm site, where in 1995 wind speeds ranged from 4.2 to 8.1 m/s and averaged 6.5
m/s at 20 m. Winds are strongest from March to October, which exceed 5 m/s at 20 m for
over 6000 hours per year (cut in speed of large wind turbines is about 4 m/s). Preliminary
estimate of net output form a 500 KW wind turbine with a 40 m hub height is 1200
MWh/year at Patenga which seems to be feasible.
There is a number of windy locations along the coast line where land is available and
where there is grid and road access. Given the danger from cyclones, it is important that
the survivability of wind turbines, be investigated. Wind potential at Patenga along is
reportedly about 100 MW. Therefore further investigation of the potential wind power
development is warranted.
3.4.4 Tidal Energy
The tides at Chittagong, south east of Bangladesh are predominantly semidiurnal with a
large variation in range corresponding to the seasons, the maximum occurring during the
south-west monsoon. A strong diurnal influence on the tides results in the day time tides
being smaller than the night time.
In the year 1984, an attempt was made from the EEE department of BUET, Dhaka to
access the possibility of tidal energy in the coastal region of Bangladesh, specially at
Cox’s Bazar and at the islands of Moheshkhali and Kutubdia. The average tidal range
was found to be within 4-5 meter and the amplitude of the spring tide exceeds even 6
meter. From different calculation it is anticipated that there are a number of suitable sites
at Cox’s Bazar, Moheshkhali, Kutubdia and other places, where a permanent basin with
pumping arrangements might be constructed which would be a double operation
scheme. Tidal energy might be a good alternative source for Kutubdia island where
about 500 kw power could be obtained. At present there are only 2x73 kva diesel
generator sets to supply electricity for 5-6 hours/day for 72,000 people and there is
practically no possibility of main grid supply in the future.
3.4.5 Wave Energy
Until to now no attempt has been made by Government of Bangladesh to assess the
prospects for harnessing energy from sea waves in the Bay of Bengal. Wave power
could be a significant alternative source of energy in Bangladesh with favorable wave
conditions specially during the period beginning from late March to early October. Waves
are generally prominent and show a distinct relation with the wind. Waves generated in
the Bay of Bengal and a result of the south-western wind is significant. Wave heights
have been recorded by a wave rider buoy and correlated with wind data. Maximum wave
height of over 2 m, with an absolute maximum of 2.4 m, on the 29 July were recorded.
The wave period varies between 3 to 4 sec for waves of about 0.5 m, and about 6 sec for
waves of 2 m.
In Bangladesh wind speeds of up to 650 kmph (400mph), 221 kmph (138 mph) and 416
kmph (260 mph) have been recorded in the years 1969, 1970 and 1989 respectively.
Severe cyclonic storms and storm surge of up to 15 m have been reported. Plant must
also be able to survive the exceptional occurrence of very high waves in storm
conditions.
3.4.6 Bio-Mass
There are different types of Bio Gas plant in the world. However in Bangladesh the
following three types are used:
(i) Floating dome type
(ii) Fixed dome type
(iii) Bag type
(i) Floating dome type
In this type there is cylinder type tank which is placed under the soil. Above the ground
there is an inlet and out let steel pipe for putting the raw materials and letting out the
wastes respectively. The dome works as a gas container as well as it maintains the
pressure of the produced gas.
(ii) Fixed dome type
In this model a circular type brick made tank is placed under the soil. A steel inlet pipe
and a hydraulic chamber is connected with this tank. An outlet pipe is connected with the
hydraulic chamber. The tank works as a gas container as well as a digester. Hydraulic
chamber maintains the gas pressure.
(iii)Bag type
This is made by polythene and placed over the soil. An inlet and outlet pipe is connected
with this. This works as a gas container as well as a digester. This is rarely used in
Bangladesh.
3.4.7 River Current
A network of rivers, canals, streams etc. numbering about 230 with a total length of
24140 km covers the whole of Bangladesh flowing down to the Bay of Bengal. Different
sizes of boats are the main carriers of people and goods for one place to another.
Boatmen usually use the water-sails to run their boasts against the wind direction. But
until now no research has been reported to utilize the energy of river current properly.
3.4.8 Waste to Electrical Energy
Dhaka City has been suffering for a long time from a tremendous environmental pollution
caused by municipal solid waste, medical waste and various industrial wastes. In order
to save the city from environmental pollution the waste management as well as electricity
generation from the solid wastes programme is being taken by the Government.
3.5 IMPORTED FUELS
Total yearly (2000-2001) import of petroleum fuels is about 3.44 million tones of which
about 1.34 million tones is imported as crude, while the import of refined products like
Petrol, Diesel, Kerosene, Jet A-1 & Lubricating Base Oil account for the rest. In
comparison to this, indigenous production of liquid fuels (condensate) is only about 2.5%
of total annual demand.
4.0. STATUS OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION
4.1 PRIMARY ENERGY SOURCES
4.1.1 Use of Natural gas
Natural gas is currently the only indigenous non-renewable primary energy resource of
the country, which is being produced and consumed in significant quantities. Gas, the
main source of commercial energy and plays an active role towards economic growth of
the country. Natural gas now accounts for about 70% of the country’s commercial
energy supply. According to the latest study by the Hydrocarbon Unit of the Energy and
Mineral Resources Division and Norwegian Petroleum Directorate, the initial gas in place
(proven+Probable) reserve of the 22 gas fields of the country is 28.4 TCF out of which
20.5 TCF is considered recoverable. Out of this recoverable reserve, 5.1 TCF has been
consumed upto June 2003 leaving remaining recoverable reserve of 15.4 TCF.
United States Geological Survey (USGS) conducted a study for undiscovered gas
resource of the country in 2000. According to this study there is a 50% probability of
getting another 32 TCF of gas (undiscovered resource). A study jointly conducted by the
Hydrocarbon Unit and Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) in 2001 suggested that
there is 50% probability of striking additional 42 TCF of gas (undiscovered resource).
Out of the total 22 gas fields so far discovered, currently gas is being produced from 12
(twelve) gas fields operated by the three public and two private sector international
companies.During 2002-2003, average daily gas demand is about 1155 million cubic feet
per day. Gas production has been increasing sharply over the last decades. While only
83 bcf (2.3 bcm) gas was produced in 1983-84, production grew to about 265 bcf (7.5
bcm) during 1995-96; gas production reached 421 bcf (11.9 bcm) during FY 2003.
Current level of natural gas related liquids production is about 4000 bbl/day.
The major driving force behind the growth of gas production is the power and fertilizer
sector. Power sector is the single largest consumer of gas, and at present nearly 90% of
the power generated in the country is gas based. Due to the near absence of any other
major energy source, dependence on gas for power generation has spiraled and is
expected to remain so.
As an agricultural country, use of fertilizer is very important to offset the food grain
deficiency. Over the last decade, cultivation of HYV crops has gained popularity and
consequently, demand of nitrogenous fertilizer has increased sharply, which is expected
to continue.
Gas consumption in major industries like textile, dyeing, paper, pulp, cement etc. and in
the commercial sector, including tea gardens is also increasing steadily. With the gradual
coverage of major growth centers with gas distribution network, use of gas as domestic
fuel is increasing manifold.
During 2001-2002 share of gas consumption is power 48%, fertilizer 24% and non-bulk
28% (industrial, commercial, domestic, tea estate, brick field and CNG).
4.1.2 Oil Potential
Exploration activities carried out so far could not discover any significant oil deposit. The
only oil deposits so far discovered in the country is in Haripur, which produced a total of
about 650,000 bbls of crude oil till 1994. The oil production has been ceased because of
reduction of pressure and influx of water in the oil zone. Comprehensive exploration
efforts need to be mounted in this field for further extraction of oil. Moreover, efforts are
required to be given to exploration of the anticipated liquid Hydrocarbon prospects
deeper to the sub-surface high pressure zone, which has not yet been penetrated.
Confirmation of the liquid Hydrocarbon may bring a revolutionary change in the vision of
oil and gas sector.
4.1.3 Coal Prospects
Discovery of coal dates back to the late fifties when an exploratory oil well was drilled
through coal beds in Bogra. Subsequent explorations resulted in the discovery of the
Jamalgonj coal deposit at a depth of about 1000 meter and having an estimated reserve
of more than 1000 million tons of coal. Feasibility studies conducted have indicated that
development of this deposit is not yet feasible under the prevailing international market
price. However, with increase in gas price, these deposits may become competitive. In
1984-85 Geological Survey of Bangladesh has discovered another coal deposit at
Khalaspir (Pirgonj) of Rangpur at a shallower depth (150 m), with an estimated reserve
of 450 million tons of coal. This deposit requires to be appraised in respect of its
potential. An Australian Company BHP recently discovered another coal deposit in
Phulbari with initial deposit of 400 million ton and recoverable reserve of 80 million ton.
Total coal in place in all the 4 fields are around 2527 million tons out of which about 492
million tons is recoverable. This recoverable reserve is equivalent to about 14.00 TCF of
gas.
Besides the above, mineable coal deposit was also discovered in Barapukhuria area of
Parbatipur, Dinajpur at a reasonably shallow depth (240 m) with an estimated reserve of
about 300 million tons. Based on this, a project for construction of an underground mine
has been undertaken at an estimated investment of Tk. 887.36 core with expected
annual output of 1 million ton commencing from 2004-2005. The extraction of these
indigenous coal deposits may be utilized as an alternative of gas fuel source in the
installation of power plants similar to that as have already been considered to construct a
coal-based Power Plant of capacity 250 MW at Barapukuria.
4.1.4 Peat Prospects
Deposits of peat occur at shallow depths in different low-lying areas of Bangladesh.

According to Geological Survey of Bangladesh, the reserve of dry peat is about 170
million tons. The major deposits are in greater districts of Faridpur (150 million tons),
Khulna (8 million tons) and Sylhet (13 million tons). Peat requires drying before making
briquettes for use as fuel. Petrobangla implemented a pilot project for extraction of peat
and making briquettes but the result were discouraging and economically not viable at
present. This scenario may however change in future.
4.1.5 Use of Biomass Fuels
Biomass fuels play an important role (about 65% of primary energy) in meeting total
energy need of the country. But they are now being consumed beyond their regenerative
limits. Unplanned and uncontrolled use of biomass fuels is causing environmental
degradation.
In the foreseeable future there are limited prospects of increasing the supply of biomass
fuels. On the other hand, it is not economically viable to substitute all the biomass fuels
by commercial fuels. From environmental consideration there is a need to maintain the
supply of biomass fuels within the regenerative limits and the demand of biomass fuels in
excess of sustainable limits is to be met by commercial fuels.
In future, the demand of commercial energy will increase to meet the growing needs of
different end use sectors as well as to meet the demand exceeding their regenerative
limits.
4.1.6 Use of Renewable Energy Sources
About 65.5% of total primary energy sources are supplied by indigenous renewable
energy sources (e.g. biomass fuels 65%, and hydropower 0.5%). With the present state
of technology, unavailability of land and paucity of exploitable hydro power there is very
limited opportunity for further increasing the contributions of renewable sources of
energy in meeting the total energy need.
Access to electricity in Bangladesh is one of the lowest in the world, coverage today
stands at less than 30% of the total population. However the rural areas of Bangladesh,
where 85% of the population live, is deprived of the electricity facility. Larger energy
supplies and greater efficiency of energy use are thus necessary to meet the basic
needs of a growing population. It will therefore, be necessary to tap different sources of
renewable energy and to use them in an efficient manner for the benefit of the people.
For this, renewable energy development program needed to be taken in the areas where
potential renewable energy resources are available considering economical & technical
viability and keeping in view the Environmental Quality Standard (EQS). Plant location,
size and design may be considered on the basis of available energy resources of the
area and efficient conversion of energy may be given preference. Priority may be given
to the rural areas where national grid expansion is expensive. This will reduce the
pressure on the demand of commercial power supply and will help to avoid costly grid
expansion and will also keep environment pollution free.
Private capital investment for implementing the renewable energy is a major issue to be
considered. This policy envisages accomplishment of its objectives by mobilizing a
concerted national effort supplemented by co-operation with international organizations,
bilateral and multilateral funding institutions, non-government organizations, research
organization, universities etc. It has become increasingly clear that for the development
of renewable energy, the funding windows of non-government and private sources as
well as financial and development institutions should also be augmented. Furthermore,
innovative new financing opportunities including micro-financing may be utilized to attract
private capital to supplement the energy deficiencies in the rural areas and thus to fulfill
the aspiration of the poor people.
Compared with conventional energy it is found that renewable energy is not yet a cost-
effective technology. But the technology is advancing rapidly. In consideration of giving
benefit to the rural areas as a commitment and social objective, many governments have
formulated new policies for renewable energy development.
4.1.7 Use of Imported Fuels
In 2000-2001, total quantity of petroleum fuels consumed in the country was 3.40 million
tonnes.
Total amount of coal imported in 1997-98 was about 1,72,900.00 tonnes and was used
mostly for brick burning.
4.2 POWER
4.2.1 Power Generation Distribution & Consumption
Total installed power plants of the country is about 4230 MW of which 3475 MW is
located in the East Zone and 755 MW in the West Zone. Of the total installed power
plants, the effective operational capacity is about 4055 MW against the peak demand of
about 3459 MW in 2001. Timely maintenance and replacement of old units have not
been possible due to non-availability of funds. The so far maximum generation was 3171
MW (on 06-04-2002). As a result, it is difficult to maintain a reliable supply due to
shortage of available generation capacity. In case of emergency outage and or/major
overhauling, the supply is managed by load shedding. The situation has improved to
some extend with the establishment of some new generating stations by Independent
Power Producers (IPPs) and some rehabilitation of some existing power units.
Indigenous energy sources (e.g. natural gas, hydro) are used for the generation of
electricity in the East Zone and imported petroleum fuels (e.g. FO, LDO, SKO, HSD) are
used to generate electricity in some areas of the West Zone where natural gas supply is
not available. In order to minimize the effect of fuel cost on power generation, electricity
generated in the East Zone is transferred to the West Zone via East West Electrical
Inter-Connector established in 1982. The transfer capacity of the Inter-Connector has
almost reached its limit (450 MW). Gas is already available at Baghabari - Seraganj in
the West Zone through Jamua Bridge and there is plan to extend gas network all over
the West Zone. It is logical and economical to install gas based power plants in the West
Zone. Accordingly, gas power plants have been planned to be built gradually in the
West Zone for regional generation balance.
In 20001, total electricity generation was 17021 GWh and fuel mix was as follows: hydro
(5.71%), natural gas (87.56%) and petroleum fuels (6.74%). Total electricity generation
in 1999 was 13638.5 GWh and the fuel mix was as follows: hydro 6.08%, natural gas
(84.29%), petroleum fuels (9.63%).
In 2001, the average tariff of BPDB (including bulk sales to REB and DESA) was Tk.
2.25 / kWh against the cost of supply of Tk. 2.51 kWh. As a result, the utility had to incur
financial losses for each unit of power sold to the consumers.
Distribution of service connections in 2001 among the three utilities were as follows:
BPDB 15,42,650 (28%), DESA 5,89,754 (11%), REB 33,95,721 (62%). Distribution of
energy sales by the three utilities were as follows: BPDB 14003 GWh (including bulk sale
to DESA and REB), DESA 5381 GWh (including bulk sale to REB) and REB 3131 GWh.
The consumption of electricity in 2001 in different end-user categories were as follows:

domestic (41%), commercial (8%), industrial (44%), irrigation (5%) and others (2%).
During the period from 1982 to 2001 the share of domestic consumption of electricity has
increased from 15.3% to 41%, whereas the productive use (commercial, industrial,
agriculture) has decreased from 77.3% to 59%. In order to increase the contribution of
electricity in economic growth it is necessary to increase the productive use of electricity.
4.2.2 Rural electrification Programme
The overall programme of rural electrification is administered by Rural Electrification

Board; and the specific distribution system within a particular area is owned and
managed by the respective Rural Electricity Co-operative known as Pallibiddyut Samity
(PBS).
On the average, a PBS covers an area of 1800 KM2 and 6 Upazilas (Upzila
headquarters and adjacent rural areas). Total number of PBSs established upto 2000-
2001 were 67. Average investment costs of establishing a PBS upto the year 2000 was
approximately Tk. 1000 million (Equivalent to 20 million US Dollar).
The total installed transformer capacity of 67 PBSs upto June 2001 was 3000 MVA as
against the peak demand of 900 MW (using 0.8 as the factor of coincidence). Thus the
capacity utilization of the installed distribution network in terms of peak demand was only
30%.
Total number of consumers connection of REB upto June 2001 were 33,95,721 and the
mix of consumers was as follows: domestic 83.5%, commercial 11.6%, irrigation 2.7%,
industry 2% and others 0.2%. The total energy consumption in 2000-2001 was 3158
GWh and the shares of different categories of consumers were as follows: domestic
39.30%, irrigation 11.85%, industry 42.81%, commercial 5.77% and other 0.27% in the
year 2000-2001.
Based on the REB standard of 4 km per sq-km , the network now covers about 32,500
villages. Thus now about 38% of villages out of 86,000 have electricity network.
4.2.3 Load management
The annual load factor of the national electricity grid is about 60%. The characteristic of
demand is such that the evening peak is very sharp. In order to improve the performance
of the system, reduce investment as well as to rationalize the energy use there is a need
to undertake appropriate measures for the management of loads. Decision to adopt
some load management measures to reduce electricity consumption during peak hours
such as early closer of commercial shops, prohibition of using irrigation pumps during
evening peak hours etc. these measures are however, yet to be implemented fully.
4.2.4 System Losses
High system loss is a major concern for Bangladesh Power Sector. During the last
twenty five years overall transmission and distribution (T&D) losses varied between
27.2% and 40.2% of net generation. A high proportion of losses at T&D level includes
non-technical losses (e.g. theft, pilferage etc.). In the year 2001, the T&D loss in the
country was 30.97% of net generation.
Analysis show that present T&D technical losses should be about 17% of net generation.
Thus total loss including station use should not be more than 22%. In BPDB system the
T&D loss (including bulk sale to DESA and REB) was 15.40% of net generation in the
year 2000 compared to 16.76 loss in 1999.
Reduction of technical losses depends on large investment for up-gradation and

reinforcement of transmission and distribution network and retrofitting of plants with more
efficient auxiliary devices. Reduction of non-technical losses depend on good
management through administrative measures with some investment on supportive
hardware such as meters and test instruments. Poor management, weak administration,
indisciplined employees, corruption both at utility and consumer levels, lack of firm
political support were responsible for high non-technical losses in the power sector. In a
recent calculation technical losses for REB system varied between 8 to 10% at different
33/11 KV substations.
4.3 FINAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION
The total final energy consumption in 1990 was established as 683 PJ (Table 4.1). the
share of different type of energy sources in final energy mix were as follows: natural gas
12.2%, oil 10.1%, coal 1.8%, electricity 2.8 and biomass fuels 73.1%. Various end uses
of final energy were as follows: domestic 64.8%, industrial 19.5%, commercial 1.3%,
transport 4.0%, agriculture 1.7% and non-energy (Fertilizer) 8.7%.
The consumption of high proportion of final energy in domestic sector and heavy
dependence on biomass fuels are indicators of subsistence nature of the economy. In
order to enhance economic growth, energy demand in productive sectors are to be
increased and the demand is to be met by commercial fuels.
4.4 ENERGY CONSERVATION
In Bangladesh efficiency of energy use is quite low. There are good potential to reduce
energy demand through conservation measures (introduction of efficient technologies
and better management practices) in all the end-use sectors; domestic, industrial,
commercial, transport and agriculture. Some attempts have been made to implement
energy conservation projects in industrial sector and domestic sector. Energy
conservation measures should be implemented more aggressively and effectively. To
this end, a draft Act on Energy conservation has been prepared and it is in the process
of approval by the government for enactment.
4.5 RURAL ENERGY NEEDS
More than 80 percent of total population of the country lives in rural areas. At present
major portion of total energy needs is met by locally produced biomass fuels which is
mostly consumed in the household sector for cooking, Ongoing rural electrification
programme meets a small portion of total rural energy needs. For overall national
development there is a need to pay special attention so that the energy needs of rural
areas for subsistence and productive requirements (e.g. agriculture, industries, transport)
are met on a sustainable basis. An area based planning methodology will have to be
considered to meet the energy needs of different locations.
5.0. SUPPLY OPTIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENERGY RESOURCES
Two supply options (Current Option, Reference Option) have been proposed to meet the
projected energy demand. Salient features of the two supply options are presented
below.
5.1 CURRENT OPTION
The basic principle of Current Option is that the existing practices of energy development
programme will continue in future. There will be no major change in strategies. The
important conditions for the Current Option are listed below.
(i) Development of known indigenous natural gas will continue;
(ii) Development of indigenous coal at Bangladesh will continue;
(iii) Development of known oil deposits and use of natural gas liquid will continue;
(iv) Imported oil meet the major energy needs of liquid fuels;
(v) Imported coal will meet a part of the energy need mainly for brick industries;
(vi) Mainly indigenous natural gas, supplemented by coal, hydropower and imported
petroleum fuels will be used for power generation;
(vii) There will be no effective programme on energy conservation;
(viii) Development and management of biomass fuels will continue without having any
linkages with commercial energy development prorgramme.
5.2 REFERENCE OPTION
In comparison to Current Option, additional issues to be considered in Reference Option

are as follows: (I) enhancement of exploration, appraisal and extraction of indigenous
non-renewable energy sources, (ii) implementation of effective programmes on energy
conservation (iii) Aggressive CNG conversion, (iv) Establishment of uniform gas
transmission and distribution network through out the country and (v) integration of
commercial energy and biomass fuels program to maintain sustainable supply of
biomass fuels.
Specific assumptions for the Reference Option are presented below:
(i) Exploration and appraisal of oil and natural gas will be enhanced;
(ii) Development of natural gas will continue;
(iii) Development of coal will be enhanced;
(iv) Development of oil and use of natural gas liquid will continue;
(v) Harnessing of new-renewable sources of energy will be undertaken;
(vi) Imported oil will meet the major energy demand of liquid fuels;
(vii) Imported coal and LP gas will meet a part of total energy needs;
(viii) Mainly indigenous natural gas, supplemented by coal, hydropower and imported
coal, petroleum fuels will be used for electricity generation;
(ix) Effective programme will be undertaken for conservation of commercial energy

and biomass fuels;
(x) Effective program will be undertaken for establishment of gas based value added
industries so that the value added items could be exported on fulfillment of
national requirements.
(xi) Programs relating to strengthening of institutional and operational development of

exploration and production public companies will be undertaken.
(xii) Transport vehicles will be converted into CNG fuel base with a strict time bound
programme.
(xiii) Besides public sector efforts, private sector participation will also be encouraged
for installation of CNG refueling stations in major cities including Dhaka and along
the major highways and conversion of transport vehicles to environment friendly
CNG fuel
(xiv) Program for the establishment of an unified gas transmission and distribution
network through out the country (Western zone to be covered) will be undertaken.
(xv) Efforts will be made to reduce the dependence on external donors gradually by
internal financing to the extent possible and new mechanisms of project
financing, such as foreign private finance, joint venture, structured loan etc will be
expected.
(xvi) A comprehensive program of recruitment & training linked with career

development of human resources/professionals will be implemented.
(xvii) Research and Development activities will be institutionalized for productivity and
cost effective activities in the energy sector.
xviii. Policy(ies) will be formulated through MOPEMR regarding phase wise private
sector participation in the form of joint-venture with public transmission
company(ies) in the construction of gas transmission pipelines where it is beyond
the funding scope of GOB/Public Companies. GOB/Public retaining major shares
and controls over the transmission networks with the government.
xix. Development of biomass fuels will be considered along with the development of
commercial energy sources.
5.3 OBSERVATIONS ON THE SUPPLY OPTIONS
It is felt that implementation of Current Option would create strain on the economy with
sharp increase in the demand of energy. It would also require additional fuel due to lack
of conservation measurers; and would cause severe environmental degradation due to
over exploitation of biomass fuels. Therefore, considering the long-term benefit, it is
recommended that the country should aim to follow the Reference Option.
5.4 OBSERVATION ON THE USE OF INDIGENOUS NATURAL GAS
Natural gas can be used either as fuel or as raw material for various petrochemical
products depending on its composition. Natural gas available in Bangladesh contains
mostly methane; it is not a good raw material for producing different petrochemical
products, except chemical fertilizer and methanol.
Bangladesh has no indigenous source of commercial fuel other than natural gas and
recently discovered coal. In order to reduce the burden of fuel import bill on national
economy, during the last three decades, Government has been following a persistent
policy to reduce dependence on imported oil and increase the use of indigenous natural
gas in meeting the total energy demand of the country.
Considering the importance of electricity in boosting national economy and the prospect
of distributing the benefit of indigenous natural gas to different parts of the country
through national electricity grid, Government has given priority in maximizing the use of
natural gas for power generation. Moreover, extension of natural gas pipe networks to
power generation centres has been helping in improving the financial return on the
investment in gas infrastructures.
From the year 2004-5, indigenous coal output is expected to be one million tonne per
year; most of which will be consumed for power generation. However, availability of
indigenous coal will not appreciably reduce dependence on natural gas for power
generation in the foreseeable future.
Chemical fertilizer plays an important role in increasing agricultural production. For

strategic reasons Government has given necessary attention to allocate a substantial
portion of natural gas to produce chemical fertilizer for meeting local needs as well as for
export. It may be mentioned that on the same consideration natural gas for fertilizer
production is being supplied at a price cheaper than its economic price. Implications of
export of fertilizer at such a price of gas should be assessed properly in determining
future allocation of gas for fertilizer production. It is therefore, recommended, to limit the
total production of natural gas based fertilizer to meet domestic demand only.
Because of the above mentioned reasons, it is recommended to allocate adequate

quantity of natural gas to meet the demand of commercial fuels for various end use
sectors such as power, fertilizer, industrial, commercial, domestic etc.
It may be noted that in the present world it is not competitive to use natural gas as a
feedstock (raw material) for petrochemical industries in comparison to higher
hydrocarbon gases obtained as byproducts during extraction and refining of crude oil.
However the possibility of establishing a methanol plant may be given due consideration.
6.0. POLICY ISSUES
Policy formulation is a continuing process for decision making at different levels by

different institutions and individuals. At the time of operationalising National Energy
Policy there is a need to ensure that these decisions are taken in a synchronized manner
to achieve the stated objectives. Various levels at which there is a need for synchronized
decision making are stated as follows:
(i) At macro level, policy decisions are to be synchronized to ensure that the outputs
of the energy sector meets the energy demands of all the end use sectors, zones
and secio-economics groups on a sustainable basis.
(ii) At the sectoral (energy sector) level, policy decisions are to be synchronized to
ensure balanced development of different sub-sectors (e.g. coal, oil, gas, power
etc.). As for example, development in power sector may be affected due to
inadequate development in natural gas sub-sector.
(iii) At the sub-sector (utility) level, policy decisions are to be synchronized to ensure
balanced development of different programmes under a particular sub-sector. As
for example, the ultimate outcome of gas-subsector depends on chronological
development of exploration, appraisal, development, production, transmission
and distribution projects. Similarly, in Power Sub-sector, it is necessary to
consider chronological development of generation, transmission and distribution
systems.
Major policy issues and recommended policies are to be considered to achieve the
objectives of National Energy Policy have been presented in the following paragraphs.
6.1 DATABASE
A centralised database on different type of energy sources, their conversion, supply,

consumption, prices etc. are to be established. These data are to be published on a
regular basis to support planned development of energy resources.
6.2 RESOURCES ASSESSMENT
Resources Assessments as have been done and/or being done needs to be

institutionalised and the figures updated at regular intervals (annually) by our own
experts.
For energy planning purpose assessment of all types of energy resources (e.g. oil, gas,
coal, nuclear minerals, hydropower, biomass fuels, solar, wind, tidal, wave etc.) are to be
undertaken on a regular / continuing basis by the appropriate authorities.
Special incentives are to be given to undertake exploration and appraisal of petroleum

resources in the West Zone and off shore areas.
6.3 TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
Necessary arrangements are to be made to select appropriate technologies for

application in energy sector programmes. Different factors to be considered in assessing
the technologies are: conversion efficiency, transferability, adaptability, environmental
effects, cost etc.
6.4 MANAGEMENT OF GAS SYSTEMS
National gas grid will be established for maintaining reliable gas supply. To improve
management efficiency, production, transmission and distribution systems of gaseous
fuels will be managed as separate cost and profit centers. Each of the units will be
corporatised and allowed to operate on a commercial basis.
Development of gas fields through private sector, as a part of Government’s privatization

policy will be considered.
Private sector participation in the form of joint ventures may be considered for
construction of gas transmission pipelines where it is beyond the funding scope of
GoB/Public Companies.
Gas distribution companies may be privatised in phases for better management of the
distribution system.
6.5 MANAGEMENT OF PETROLEUM FUELS
In course of time import, processing, distribution and marketing of petroleum fuels will be
opened to the private sector provided the private sector investors develop their own
infrastructure like pipelines(s) including carriers, storage and distribution/handling
facilities.
6.6 MANAGEMENT OF COAL
Coal will play an important role in meeting the future energy needs of the country. A coal-
mining project is under implementation to extract coal from Barapukuria Coal Mine. To
ensure efficient management the mining activities will be conducted through Barapukuria
Coal Mining Company.
6.7 MANAGEMENT OF POWER SYSTEM
To improve management efficiency; generation, transmission and distribution systems of

power sector will be managed as separate cost and profit centers. Existing power utilities
will be corporatised and allowed to operate on commercial basis.
Rural Electrification Board will be allowed to continue the implementation and

management of Area Coverage Rural Electrification (ACRE) programme for designated
rural areas of the country.
6.8 ENERGY CONSERVATION
End use based energy planning method is to be undertaken to incorporate energy

conservation measures in energy planning process. Energy conservation measures will
be considered in generation of power, refining of crude oil and use of energy for various
end-uses (e.g. domestic, industrial, commercial, transport, agriculture). Necessary
incentives (e.g. technical support, preferential credit, tax exemption etc.) will be given to
achieve the targets of energy conservation.
There is a need to adopt Energy Conservation Act (in the process of approval by the
Government for enactment) to provide a legal basis and to decide appropriate strategies
for energy conservation.
6.9 ENVIRONMENT CONSIDERATION
Environmental issues will be considered for all type of fuels and in each and every step
of fuel cycle; namely, exploration, appraisal, extraction, conversion, transportation and
consumption.
6.10 MINING INSIDE THE FOREST AREAS
There should not be any commercial mining and quarrying inside the forest area (as
legally defined in the Forest Act) and within 3 (three) Km from the forest boundary.
However between 3 to 10 Km of forest boundary mining and quarrying may be allowed
only where EIA shows that there is no negative impact on forest. Transportation of
mining and quarrying materials should be controlled under the coverage of Forest Transit
Rules.
6.11 PRICING POLICY
Tariffs of different type of final energy such as natural gas, petroleum products &
electricity will be fixed on the basis of economic cost. When it is decided to give any
subsidy it will be made at end users level and Government shall make necessary
arrangement with the utilities on this accounts.
6.12 INVESTMENT POLICY
To allow healthy competition and to ensure efficient operation both public and private
sector enterprises will enjoy similar / uniform investment incentives offered by the
Government.
Corporatised public sector utilities shall be allowed to raise finance from the market
through floating of shares and debentures and also bank loans.
Considering the energy sector as the infrastructure for development, its projects, when
financed by the Government shall be allowed interest rates not more than the lowest slab
of interest for commercial loans.
6.13 ZONAL DISTRIBUTION OF ENERGY
Different projects being considered and that may be considered to meet the energy
demand of the West Zone are as follows:
(i) Special incentives for the survey; exploration and development of oil and gas.
(ii) Development of Barapukuria and other coal mine.
(iii) Implementation of energy conservation projects.
(iv) Construction of LPG bottling plants at suitable locations with necessary

infrastructure development for the assured delivery of LPG in the West-Zone
(v) Development of coal bed methane.
(vi) Establishment of coal based power plants.
(vii) Exploration and development of coal in unexplored areas
(viii) Establishment of petroleum depots at Mongla port and up country to maintain
reliable supply of petroleum fuels.
(ix) Expansion of electricity & gas transmission and distribution networks to the
western zone of the country for effective regional balance in energy supply.
(x) Special incentive package similar to those offered for oil and gas exploration in
off-shore areas to be offered for exploration in the west zone.
(xi) Implementation of gas based power plants in the west zone considering regional
balance in energy supply.
(xii) Establishment of the second Petroleum Refinery in West Zone of the country.
(xiii) Augmentation of tree plantation programme (by the Department of Forest)
6.14 AREA-BASED ENERGY PLANING
Area-based energy planning methodology is to be followed to ensure sustainable supply

of biomass fuels and to meet the energy needs of rural areas. At the implementation
stage commercial energy development programmes and biomass fuels development
programmes are to be co-ordinated. Areas (thana / district) having scarcity of biomass
fuels will be given priority under commercial energy distribution programme and biomass
fuels conservation programme (e.g. improved stoves). Reliable supply of commercial
fuels to rural areas is to be ensured.
6.15 STRATEGIC / EMERGENCY STOCK
(a) Petroleum Fuels
The strategic stock of petroleum products is to be maintained at 60 days of consumption.

Such reserves in storage tanks are to be distributed all over the country and reserve
capacities for each location are to be determined by considering extreme natural and
other events like cyclone, drought, flood and war.
(b) Coal
Adequate emergency stock of coal is to be maintained in off-shore islands and flood

prone areas to meet the cooking fuel needs of such places at the time of emergency.
(c) Natural Gas
Stand-by wells are to be provided to meet emergency situation. The reserve margin in
this case is recommended to be 20% of the producing wells.
6.16 IMPLEMENTATION AND EVALUATION OF PROJECTS
A master plan for the sector is to be developed, identifying projects along with the
recommended phasing of implementation. Bankable project documents are to be
produced for projects in accordance with its schedule identified in the Master Plan.
Necessary attention should be given for reducing the delay in the approval process. The
existing procedure should be modified as to enable the concerned utility to complete the
projects in time.
In addition to existing practices followed by IMED, Performance Evaluation Report (PER)
should be prepared to evaluate the actual performance of the projects after its
completion.
6.17 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Systematic research programmes will be undertaken for each type of the energy utility.
Necessary facilities and resources will be made available to implement different research
programme on a continuous basis. Collaborative linkages among utilities and R&D
institutions will be strengthened to implement different research programmes. A certain
percentage of earnings of the utilities should be dedicated for R&D purpose. Accordingly
various R&D institutions will also be established and strengthened (as applicable) under
the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.
6.18 HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive programme of human resources development will be undertaken for

each type of energy utility.
Training programmes are also to be organized for consumer groups to create awareness
on efficient use of energy.
6.19 INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources should undertake the tasks of
preparing a long-term energy plan (perspective plan). The proposed plan should ensure
balanced and sustainable development of different parts of the country. There is a need
to develop in-house institutional capabilities to prepare National Energy Plan.
One single Ministry (Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources) shall sponsor
and co-ordinate the entire range of energy related activities.
Appropriate institutional arrangement are to be established to implement area based

energy development programmes to ensure sustainable development of biomass fuels
and to meet rural energy needs.
Renewable Energy Developments Agency (REDA) is to be established under the

Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources for the development and diffusion
(dissemination / extension) of different type of renewable energy technologies. Until
REDA is formed Power Cell of the Power Division of the Ministry of Power, Energy and
Mineral Resources will carry out all primary and initial works related to development of
renewable energy.
An Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) will be established to carry out the following
regulatory functions of electricity and natural gas:
(a) To determine efficiency and standard of the machinery and appliances of the
institutions using energy and to ensure through energy audit the verification,
monitoring, analysis of the energy and the economy use and enhancement of the
efficiency of the use of energy;
(b) To ensure efficient use, quality services, determine tariff and safety enhancement of
electricity generation and transmission, marketing, supply, storage and distribution of
energy;
(c) To issue, cancel, amend and determine conditions of licences, exemption of licences
and to determine the conditions to be followed by such exempted persons;
(d) To approved schemes on the basis of overall program of the licencee and to take
decision in this regard taking into consideration the load forecast and financial status;
(e) To collect, review, maintain and publish statistics of energy;
(f) To frame codes and standards and make enforcement of those compulsory with a
view to ensuring quality of service;
(g) To develop uniform methods of accounting for all licencees;
(h) To encourage to create a congenial atmosphere to promote competition amongst the

licencees;
(i) To extend co-operation and advice to the Government, if necessary, regarding

electricity generation, transmission, marketing, supply distribution and storage of
energy;
(j) To resolve disputes between the licencees, and between licencees and consumers
and refer those to arbitration if considered necessary;
(k) To ensure appropriate remedy for consumer disputs, dishonest business practices or
monopoly;
(l) To ensure control of environmental standard of energy under existing laws; and
(m) To perform any incidental functions if considered appropriate by the Commission for
the fulfillment of the objectives of this Act.
6.20 LEGAL ISSUES
(i) Implementation of National Energy Policy will necessitate introduction of new

Acts and modifications of the relevant Acts and Ordinances in this regard.
(ii) Environmental issues to be considered under National Energy Policy are to be

mandated under National Environment Policy and Environment Act.
6.21 REGIONAL / INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
Regional / International cooperation on energy may be explored for minimizing the gaps
in energy supply of the countries in the region by developing a regional energy market.
6.22 ENERGY ADVISORY COUNCIL
A high power Energy Advisory Council consisting of representatives from politicians,

policy makers, professionals and experts of the energy sector may be formed. This
council, considering the overall national and international energy situation, may give
necessary policy guidelines for the energy sector.
7.0. RECOMMENDED ENERGY POLICY
7.1 NON-RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY
7.1.1 Assessment of Indigenous Resources
a. A comprehensive assessment of non-renewable energy resource base is essential

irrespective of the actual prospects of their exploitation under prevailing techno-
economic situation.
b. A comprehensive data base, containing all information and data required for
exploration, is required to be developed by continuously updating geological,
geophysical and geochemical information
c. Extensive exploration need to be continued to upgrade structural leads to established

structures.
d. Steps are to be taken to drill the established structures / plays to ascertain their
status.
e. Intensive exploration need to be continued to delineate new structures in the

unexplored and virgin areas.
f. Special incentive packages similar to those offered for oil and gas exploration in off-
shore areas are to be given for exploration of oil and gas resources in the West
Zone.
g. Foreign and local entrepreneurs are to be encouraged to invest in exploration for

petroleum and solid fuels in the country
h. The public sector utilities are to intensify exploration. For this number of exploration
drilling with internal resources is to be increased to at least four wells per year and
accordingly BAPEX, the lone public exploration and production company needs to be
modernized in harmony with the development of the oil and gas industries.
7.1.2 Supply and Augmentation of Indigenous Resources
A. Oil and Gas
a. Comprehensive reservoir study of the developed gas fields need to be undertaken to

determine their actual field potential.
b. Systematic appraisal of the discovered, partially developed and undeveloped gas / oil
fields is to be undertaken to determine actual recoverable reserve. In this context, the
oil/condensate rich fields are to be given priority.
c. Efforts are to be made to reduce the abandonment pressure wherever possible to

augment the recoverable reserve of natural gas.
d. Producible wells, which may now be idle for different reasons, are to be brought
under production on a priority basis. If needed, internal resources are to be allocated
for attaining this target.
e. Marginal gas fields are to be developed to augment gas production volume.
f. Gas fields having higher NGL content are to be given priority for development in
order to increase NGL supply.
g. NGL plants at Ashugonj and Kailashtila are to be commissioned at the earliest.
h. Development of the national gas grid, inter-connecting the demand centres with it
should be completed as soon as possible.
B. COAL
a. The target of producing one million tonne of coal from Barapukuria by 2004 is to be
achieved.
b. Techno-economic feasibility of Khalaspir coal deposit in Rangpur is to be taken up at

the earliest.
c. Appraisal of coal basins in Rangpur Dinajpur belt is to be completed and depending

on the findings, techno-economic feasibility of their exploitation are to be taken up.
d. Exploration for coal in the north-western part of the country including the identified
potential coal basins is to be undertaken on a priority basis.
e. The feasibility study on extraction Coal Bed Methane (CBM) from Jamalgonj and
Khalaspir is to be undertaken on a priority basis, if needed internal resources are to
be allocated for this. Depending on the findings of the Feasibility study, commercial
exploitation of CBM is to be considered for these and other prospective areas of coal
deposit. Private entrepreneurs may be encouraged to extract CBM.
C. NUCLEAR MINERALS
Areas having prospects of uranium and thorium deposits are to be appraised and,
studies may be conducted on the techno-economic viability of production at prospective
sties.
7.1.3 Reduction of Imbalance in Energy Consumption
A. RURAL-URBAN
a. Penetration of commercial fuels backed up by appropriate pricing policy is to be

accelerated to ensure equitable distribution of benefits.
b. Reliability of energy supply to the rural areas in terms of availability in adequate

quantity, in time and at a fair price is to be ensured
B. EAST ZONE AND WEST ZONE
Considering the importance of equitable development both in East and West Zone of the
country the following measures will be considered:
a. Special incentives for exploration and production of oil and gas;
b. Exploration and development of coal, including that at Barapukuria and Khalaspir,

and CBM;
c. Use of furnace oil of ERL for power plants and industries;
d. Establishment of adequate oil depots at the Mongla port and up country;
e. Construction of LPG bottling plant at Ashugonj, as well as, any other suitable places
in the western zone with necessary infrastructure development for the assured
delivery of LPG in the West Zone
f. Extension of natural gas pipeline;
g. Development of infrastructure for handling and inland transportation of imported fuels

like coal and oil;
h. Establishment of Petroleum Refinery
i. Railway should also develop appropriate facilities for POL product transportation and
handling.
7.1.4 Fuel Mix
a. Supply of indigenous fuels is to be maximized to the extent possible in meeting the

future demands.
b. The mix of imported fuels and their end-uses are to be determined on the basis of
their relative advantages and disadvantages. Reliance on a single fuel type is to be
avoided in order to minimize the effect of any future global energy crisis. Security of
energy supply, logistics of transportation and handling, environmental pollution along
with economics of energy supply will influence the mix of the imported fuels.
c. Import of liquid fuels is to be determined by the market force. However, its

consumption is to be limited primarily to such uses for which alternatives are not
either available or affordable by the vast majority of the population.
d. Size of new refinery(ies), whenever required, is to be determined on the basis of

growth in demand. At least one of the new refineries may be considered for
estabilishment in the west zone.
e. Infrastructure for transportation of crude to the refinery site, including pipeline if the
site is inland, should be developed in parallel to installation of the refinery (ies).
7.1.5 Allocation of Non-Renewable Energy Sources
A. Petroleum Products
a. Allocation of liquid petroleum products will depend on the dynamics of market

economy
b. In place of Furnace Oil (FO) produced in ERL alternate fuels with low sulfur content
should be used for power generation / Industrial units for protection of environment.
The FO produced in ERL should be used for production of Bitumen and international
Bunkering.
c. In the event of Compressed Natural Gas being available, it will be possible to replace
part of the liquid fuel by CNG.
B. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
Most of the LPG is to be allocated for the west zone until the equitable gas distribution
system is established, primarily for the domestic sector. LPG may also be imported for
meeting the demand of the country.
C. Coal
a. Major portion of local coal is to be used for Power generation in the west zone. The
remaining part of it may be used for other purposes in both zones depending on its
demand.
b. Allocation of imported coal will depend on the dynamics of the market economy.
D. Coal Bed Methane
The future production of Coal Bed Methane is to be used for power generation,
domestic, commercial and industrial purposes in the west zone.
7.1.6 Pricing Policy
a. All forms of non-renewable energy are to be priced at their economic cost of supply.
b. The present price of natural gas is to be raised in phases to reach its economic cost
of supply.
c. The price of PSC gas is to be linked to the price of high sulfur furnace oil as
recommended in the Petroleum Policy.
d. The present subsidy on gas price for power and fertilizer is to be removed gradually.
Subsidy, if required, is to be given at the end-user level and the related liabilities
cannot be passed on to the utilities.
e. Differential tariff is to be applied for use of gas by the bulk user (e.g. power and
fertilizer) for the off-peak and peak hours.
f. While fixing up price for Diesel, MS, Kerosene, LPG etc., adequate care has to be
taken to prevent adulteration of one product by the other or to discourage smuggling
of the product outside the country.
g. The price of coal is to be set at its economic cost of production and supply
7.1.7 Conservation
Following categories of conservation measures are to be strictly enforced to ensure

rational, economic and efficient use of energy.
A. ENERGY AUDIT
Energy audit is to be enforced at all levels, so that wastage of energy can be checked
and corrective measures taken. To this end, the Energy Conservation Act is to be
introduced and the role of Energy Monitoring and Conservation Cell (EMCC) is to be
strengthened.
B. REDUCTION OF WASTAGE
a. Use of efficient processes in fertilizer production, BMRE, retrofitting and other
measures are to be taken to reduce specific gas consumption in fertilizer production
first to the level of the present average consumption of the national fertilizer factories
and then at least to the specific consumption of Jamuna Fertilizer Factory. Any new
fertilizer factory must have efficiency acceptable at the international level.
b. Use of efficient technologies for power generation, BMRE or retrofitting are to be

undertaken for the existing power plants of different types having efficiency lower
than the national average of the technology. Future power plants must be base
plants where natural gas is available and peaking power plants (Gas Turbine) must
be highly efficient where natural gas may be or may not be available.
C. DEMAND MANAGEMENT
a. Single / double shift industries are to be operated during off peak period.
b. Decision on establishing gas-based new fertilizer factories will be taken in such a

way that total production is limited to the level of national demand
c. Incentives for fuel efficiency for all categories of end-uses may be given.
d. Fiscal incentives, including reduced taxes and duties may be given to promote the
use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in transports.
D. EFFICIENT USE
a. Use of improved cooking appliances and lighting devices using commercial fuels are
to be encouraged.
b. Use of efficient engines and furnaces as well as co-generation on industries, are to

encouraged wherever feasible.
7.1.8 System Loss Reduction
a. All types of technical system losses are to be reduced to acceptable levels and non-
technical losses are to be eliminated.
b. Adequate number of meters (system meters) are to be installed by the utilities at

designated points of the gas network at the earliest.
c. Electric and Gas meters are to be checked and calibrated periodically and on a
regular basis.
d. Power, fertilizer and all other industrial consumers are to provide their annual
production and total electricity gas consumption in order to estimate specific
consumption.
7.1.9 Environment Policy
a. Carrying out Environmental Impact Assessment (including a consideration of social

impact) should be made mandatory and should constitute an integral part of any new
energy development project.
b. Use of economically viable environmental friendly technology are to be promoted.
c. Use of fuel wood is to be discouraged and replacement fuels are to be made
available at an affordable price
d. Popular awareness to be promoted regarding environmental conservation.
e. In case of coal based power plants, disposal of ash and reduction of environmental
emission are to be considered in technology selection.
f. Use of lead free petrol is mandatory.
g. Use of low sulfur content Diesel will be encouraged.
h. Production of liquid fuels like Petrol, Kerosene, Diesel Oil from Natural Gas (NG) will
be encouraged.
i. Other technical options such as use of Catalytic Converter and Diesel Particulate
Filter will be encouraged to reduce vehicular emissions.
j. For improving the environment condition in the country, producing energy from
wastes will be encouraged.
7.1.10 Emergency Stocks
A. PETROLEUM FUELS
The emergency stock is to be maintained at 60 days of consumption. Such reserves in

storage tanks are to be distributed all over the country and reserve capacity for each
location are be determined by considering extreme natural events like flood and cyclone,
as well as drought.
B. COAL
Adequate emergency stock of coal, (equivalent to about one month’s consumption) of

off-shore island and flood prone areas may be maintained.
C. NATURAL GAS
Stand-by wells are to be provided to meet emergency situation. The reserve margin in
this case is recommended to be 20% of the producing wells. To materialize the
emergency reserve margin of 20% of the producing wells, immediate efforts are to be
taken for further drilling of sufficient additional production wells.
7.1.11 Investment and Lending Terms
a. Dependence on external donors is to be gradually reduced by internal financing to

the extent possible. Public sector utilities are to be encouraged to mobilize own
resources for their projects. The existing formalities for using internal resources of the
utilities for implementation of their projects are to be simplified.
b. A part of the contributions of Petrobangla and the BPC towards the national
exchequer is to be made available to the public sector utilities for investment in
development of the non-renewable energy sector.
c. Public sector utilities are to be allowed to mobilize finance from the market through
bank loans debentures and floating shares.
d. Private sector financing is to be encouraged.
e. In case of government funding, same set of financing conditions are to be applicable

for both the private and the public sector.
f. Considering the importance of energy as a vital infrastructure for development,

interest on loans provided by the Government is to be equal to the lowest slab of
interest for industrial loans.
g. Energy sector projects should be given protection against foreign exchange

fluctuations
7.1.12 Project Planning and Implementation
a. Master Plan for the sub-sector is to be developed, identifying projects along with the
recommended phasing of implementation. The master plan may also include
information on the project cost and economic analysis. Bankable documents are to
be produced for a project in accordance with its schedule identified in the master
plan.
b. Necessary attention should be given for reducing the delay in the process of project
approval. The existing procedure should be modified so as to enable the concerned
utility to implement the project according to the time schedule given in the project
proforma.
7.1.13 Institutional Issues
Though Petrobangla has been organized in the functional line and operating companies
have been registered as Public Limited Company, yet Petrobangla continues to remain
as a Government Agency in the form of a Corporation. Petrobangla is to be corporatised
and converted into a Public Limited Company (Holding Company) under the Companies
Act of 1994 with necessary organizational and financial restructuring and the ownership
to remain with Government. The new Company should have the right to select
employees on its own terms and conditions of employment so as to attract and retain
high quality staff.
An Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) will be established to carry out the following
regulatory functions of electricity and natural gas:
(a) To determine efficiency and standard of the machinery and appliances of the
institutions using energy and to ensure through energy audit the verification,
monitoring, analysis of the energy and the economy use and enhancement of the
efficiency of the use of energy;
(b) To ensure efficient use, quality services, determine tariff and safety enhancement of
electricity generation and transmission, marketing, supply, storage and distribution of
energy;
(c) To issue, cancel, amend and determine conditions of licences, exemption of licences
and to determine the conditions to be followed by such exempted persons;
(d) To approved schemes on the basis of overall program of the licencee and to take
decision in this regard taking into consideration the load forecast and financial status;
(e) To collect, review, maintain and publish statistics of energy;
(f) To frame codes and standards and make enforcement of those compulsory with a
view to ensuring quality of service;
(g) To develop uniform methods of accounting for all licencees;
(h) To encourage to create a congenial atmosphere to promote competition amongst the

licencees;
(i) To extend co-operation and advice to the Government, if necessary, regarding

electricity generation, transmission, marketing, supply distribution and storage of
energy;
(j) To resolve disputes between the licencees, and between licencees and consumers
and refer those to arbitration if considered necessary;
(k) To ensure appropriate remedy for consumer disputes, dishonest business practices
or monopoly;
(l) To ensure control of environmental standard of energy under existing laws; and
(m) To perform any incidental functions if considered appropriate by the Commission for
the fulfillment of the objectives of this Act.
7.1.14 Participation of Private Sector
a. Incentive packages defined through the Petroleum Policy are to be offered to the
local and foreign entrepreneurs. Similar incentive packages is to be developed for the
solid fuels as well.
b. In case of marketing of fuels by the private sector, the price fixation and the reliability
of supply to all categories of consumers in the rural as well as the urban areas are to
be regulated through the Energy Regulatory Commission.
7.1.15 Research and Development
a. A comprehensive R&D programme addressing the problems of development of non-

renewable energy is to be drawn up and implemented in co-operation with the
existing R&D and educational institutions of the country.
b. A National Data Bank on energy will be established in any suitable location under the
direct control of Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.
7.1.16 Human Resource Development
a. A comprehensive programme on training linked with career Planning of professionals

is to be drawn up and implemented.
b. Sufficient funds are to be allocated for human resource development. A certain

percentage of PSC shares and revenue generated by the utilities is to be earmarked
for this purpose.
7.1.17 Legal Issues
Appropriate modifications / revisions of the existing laws, acts, regulations, ordinances,

etc are to be made in consultation with the Ministry of Law in order to facilitate
implementation of various provisions of the National Energy policy.
7.2 PETROLEUM POLICY1
7.2.1 Objective
The basic objectives underlying the policy are to:
i. Undertake systematic survey, exploration and exploration of petroleum

resource and to ensure their rational use for sustainable development of the
country.
ii. Adopt uniform policy instrument for both public and private sector (local and
foreign) enterprises,
iii. Expedite exploration and development of indigenous petroleum resources,
iv. Mobilize domestic and external financial and technical resources from private
and public sector especially the former for the development of petroleum
exploration, refining, import, export, storage, distribution and marketing,
v. Consider development of gas fields through private sector, as a part of

Government’s Privatization policy,
vi. Replace oil import by gas as far as possible and to augment energy supply by
other undeveloped commercial energy sources such as coal, coal bed
methane, peat as well as LPG and all other possible sources of conventional
and non conventional energy,
vii. Strengthen the research, technical and administrative capabilities of the

government agencies responsible for making policies and their effective
implementation,
viii. Encourage involvement of private sector in the petroleum industry and trade,
ix. Create a competitive environment for giving the best deal to the consumer in
price and quality, and
x. Promote measures for environmental impact assessment in this sector.
7.2.2 Implementation
For achieving these policy objectives, the measure specific to various segments of the oil
and gas sector are spelled out below:
A. LEGAL AND PROCEDURAL
1
For the purpose of the petroleum policy, petroleum means any naturally occurring hydrocarbon,
whether in liquid, gaseous or solid state as defined in the Bangladesh Petroleum Act, 1974.
i. Steps will be taken to amend the existing acts and rules to implement the
policy wherever necessary.
ii. All applications for exploration licenses will be decided within six months and
disputed or contested application will be decided within nine months,
iii. A comprehensive database necessary for promotion exploration will be

developed and made available on payment of necessary fees for the use of
exploration companies and confidentiality rules will be amended to bring it in
line with the international practice wherever necessary, and
iv. The model production-sharing contract will be reviewed at intervals.
B. FISCAL
i. Repatriation of profit as per production sharing contract (PSC) provision will

be allowed.
ii. Private and public sectors will be treated uniformly,
iii. No administering fee or signature bonus will be necessary on signing of PSC.

Contract service fee to be paid annually will be biddable with a minimum of
US $ 50,000.00(fifty thousand US dollars),
iv. Special consideration will be given to application for PSC in offshore areas,
v. For offshore production, rate of bonuses and the Government’s share would
be lower than onshore production,
vi. No duty will be levied on machinery, equipment and consumables imported

for petroleum operation during exploration, development or production stage,
vii. The equipment imported for enhanced oil and gas recovery will also be
subject to the same concessionary rate duty, and locally manufactured
machinery and equipment used by the exploration companies will be entitled
to all such benefits as are admissible on their export,
viii. Pre-shipment inspection of machinery and other imported items will be

mandatory,
ix. Companies will remain harmless of taxes as are determined under the terms
of PSC. and,
x. Incentive oriented agreements will be made for exploration in and recovery

from deeper horizons.
C. COMMERCIAL
i. Local private companies will be encouraged to seek joint ventures with

foreign companies and /or with BAPEX in exploration,
ii. The practice of accepting a commercial discovery on the basis of the first
exploration well followed by one appraisal well to determine the extent of the
reservoir will be changed and declaration of commerciality on conclusive
ground will be accepted even on basis of one well,
iii. The gas production companies will be assured a market outlet within a
reasonable time of commercial discovery, and if indication of an outlet is not
given by the government within 12 months of the declaration of commercial
discovery, the producer would be free to find market outlet within the country,
and
iv. The companies would be required to undertake optimal development of oil

gas fields for maximum recovery.
D. PRICING
i. The pricing for associated gas would be on a cost plus basis, while for non-
associated gas it will be 75% of international price of high sulfur heavy fuel oil
with negotiated discounts, and to encourage exploration in offshore areas,
associated or non-associated gas from such fields will be priced at 25%
higher than those from onshore areas,
ii. The price of locally produced LPG will be linked to international kerosene
price on BTU basis with appropriate discount to encourage its local
production, and
iii. The value of oil from each production area will be determined on the basis of
market value comparable to Asia Pacific Petroleum Price Index(APPI).
7.2.3 Oil Refining
i. Private sector will be free to set up new refineries, with approval from any
authority designated by GOB.
ii. Private sector will be encouraged to install secondary conversion units for
upgrading residual fuel to higher value products in collaboration with the
existing refinery,
iii. New marketing companies linked with investment in development of

infrastructure (storage, pipelines, wharves and other facilities) will be allowed,
iv. Joint venture companies for i., ii. and iii. outlined above will be encouraged,
v. The pricing formula for refinery products will be based on import parity prices
with a negotiated discount,
vi. Refineries will be allowed to import required crude oil after lifting locally
produced crude oil allocated from local source(s), and foreign exchange for
import of crude oil will be made available,
vii. Refineries will be free to sell their products to any marketing company or
directly from the plant to any customer(s) within the country, and
viii. Foreign companies investing in refinery or in blending plants whether on their

own or in association with local investors will enjoy the benefit of Foreign
Private Investment (Promotion and Protection) Act, 1980.
7.2.4 Lubricating Oil
i. Lubricating oil products will be free from price control,
ii. Permission may be obtained from GoB for import or establishing lubricating
oil blending plants, grease and wax manufacturing plants subject to
registration for quality check,
iii. Investors will be free to procure raw materials from local or foreign sources,
iv. Unless the regulations are enacted for disposal of used lubricating oil these
will exclusively be used as FO (Furnace Oil) and no recycling will be allowed
to protect environment.
v. Quality standards of lube oils will be defined according to the international

standards and enforced through checks; each plant will be required to
establish adequate testing facilities. Penalty as per "Petroleum Act & BPC
Ordinance" for non compliance will be imposed.
vi. It will be preferable to have a licensing arrangement with internationally

reputed oil company(s) or lubricant blending plants for product formulation.
vii. The minimum standard of lubricating oil will be API-SC/CC for engine oils and
for industrial grades as per manufacturer’s recommendation. For two stroke
engines minimum standard should be API TC or JASO FB level.
viii. Marketing of Straight mineral oil, mild additive treated lubricating oil and any
type of loose lubricating oil is prohibited. Marketing of lubricating oil are to be
encouraged in small pact’s/sachets.
ix. All blending plants (including private) should be of international standard and
must be upgraded with laboratory facilities.
7.2.5 Marketing and Distribution
i. In consultation with the Government, the prices of products will be fixed and
equalized for main installation and depots at various places in the country and
freight will be added beyond these points,
ii. Subject to uniformity in coverage development of retail outlets will be done by

the marketing companies and individual investors based on environment,
explosive and safety rules,
iii. The commission of marketing companies and dealers will be excluded from
the notified prices, and the dealers commission will be left out to be
determined by the marketing company or by the individual retailer,
iv. The private sector will be encouraged to invest in infrastructure like pipeline(s)
including carriers, storage and distribution /handling facilities,
v. Private sector may also be involved in phases in import and distribution of

POL.
vi. Marketing companies (under BPC) may import POL products after lifting the
locally produced products, and
vii. To check adulteration and to enforce quality & quantity existing laws will be
updated.
7.2.6 Liquefied petroleum Gas (LPG)
After meeting the domestic LPG requirement, the surplus may be considered to be used
as automotive fuel.
7.2.7 Research and Development
Research and Development measures will be implemented as stipulated in the National

Energy Policy. Accordingly to implement this policy, the monitoring, research and
development capabilities of Petrobangla, Bangladesh Petroleum Institute, Bangladesh
Petroleum Corporation, Geological Survey of Bangladesh, and other Institutions will be
strengthened by allocating a fixed percentage of the government share of the PSC and
by utilizing the technical assistance provided by the petroleum producing companies
under production sharing contracts.
7.2.8 CNG in Transport
In order to reduce the air pollution in Dhaka and other cities, the Government has given
emphasis on the best possible use of environmental friendly fuel CNG in transport
sectors. As such government has liberalised and opened the sector for private
participation to supplement the activities of the public sectors. The use of CNG in all
types of road and riverine transports replacing motor spirit and diesel will be
commercialized. No duty, sales tax or surcharge will be levied on equipment imported for
compression and refuelling of natural gas and for conversion of vehicles. Local as well
as foreign private capital will be encouraged to invest in all phases of CNG business.
The strategy for the development of CNG as transportation fuels are:

(i) Banning of diesel buses and trucks in cities roads with a rigid cut off date
(ii) To convert existing petrol vehicles to CNG by establishment of sufficient
number of conversion workshop by Public/Private Sector in all the major
cities
(iii) To install and operate adequate number of CNG refueling station by
Public and Private Sector in the major cities and the connecting highways
(iv) Set up emission standard for CNG vehicles
(v) Elimination of two-stroke baby taxi
(vi) Encourage introduction of CNG dedicated buses and four-stroke Baby
Taxis through reduction of duty.
(vii) Monitor CNG converted vehicles closely to ensure quality of emission and
to ensure pollution control
(viii) To introduce appropriate regulatory frame-work for more systematic
monitoring, closer control and regulation. (Meanwhile, GOB has already
introduced gazetted the guideline and procedure for establishment of
CNG refueling station and conversion workshop).
7.2.9 Safety and Environmental Protection
Laws, Rules and Policies formulated by the Government in this regard will be followed.
The following 3 (three) new rules are being framed which will provide safety and
efficiency in the respective field.
(i) The CNG (automotive fuel) Rules
(ii) The Liquefied Petroleum Gas Rules
(iii) The Oil & Gas Exploration Safety Rules.
7.3 MARGINAL GAS FIELD DEVELOPMENT POLICY
In Bangladesh 22 gas fields of sizes ranging from 25 to 4000 Bcf have so far been
discovered. Fifteen of these gas fields have been brought under production. Some of
these fields, which have been in the process of depletion for continued production over
time, have become commercially unviable and remained unattended. There are yet other
gas fields, which have not been put under operation for want of commercial viability right
from the beginning. All these gas fields, which have no apparent prospect for further
development under the existing techno-economic considerations, may be termed
marginal/abandoned. Development of marginal gas fields requires investment with
significant risks. In order to provide a transparent mechanism to deal with such
marginal/abandoned gas fields, a set of procedural guidelines is deemed necessary.
7.3.1 A. OBJECTIVES
The objectives if this procedure are to :
i. Facilitate development of gas resources of marginal/abandoned gas

fields;
ii. Introduce the state-of-the-art technology for development of marginal/

abandoned gas fields;
iii. Maximize ultimate recovery of gas from marginal/abandoned gas fields;

and
iv. Attract private investment (domestic and foreign direct) in the

development of marginal/abandoned gas fields.
7.3.2 B. DETERMINATION OF MARGINAL GAS FIELDS
Petrobangla from time to time, with the approval of the Government, may declare
certain gas fields as marginal/abandoned on the basis of the following procedure:
i. Petrobangla shall constitute a technical committee, which will evaluate the

status of all gas fields on the basis of geological, geophysical and engineering
data, production history, cost effectiveness, size of the fields, remaining
recoverable reserve, well deliverability, cost of production, access to pipeline
and market etc. and determine which gas fields may be considered as
marginal/abandoned.
ii. The recommendations of the technical committee will be reviewed by

Petrobangla and after review Petrobangla shall prepare and forward for
consideration and approval of the Government the list of gas fields to be
declared as marginal/abandoned.
c. Processing
1. Available data for the respective marginal/abandoned gas fields will be provided
to the investors on payment of necessary fees. The confidentiality agreement
will be signed in line with the international practice.
2. GOB/Petrobangla may invite proposals for private investment for the
development of marginal/abandoned gas fields. The offers received will be
evaluated on declared criteria and the best offer will be selected for negotiation
and finalization of the contract.
3. The model production sharing contract 1997 as it relates only to gas and its
associate products and as may be modified from time to time by the government
shall be used as far as practicable as guidelines for negotiation. However,
established norms and procedures will be taken into consideration while
finalizing the contract between the parties.
4. Offers received prior to the adoption of these procedures will be appraised by a

technical committee appointed by Petrobangla. After appraisal a joint venture
agreement (jva) will be concluded between the selected investor and
petrobangla/ company(ies) and forwarded to government for approval.
5. In line with the general GoB policy of diversification and wider participation of
investors in order to minimize risks and encourage competition, foreign
companies already engaged in exploration and/or production shall not be eligible
for participation in the development of marginal/abandoned gas fields except
specifically allowed by the government.
d. Fiscal Incentives
i. Repatriation of dividends, capitals, repayment of loans etc. shall be in accordance

with the policy of the Government/Bangladesh Bank.
ii. Payment and exemptions of import duty shall be in accordance with SRO-202,
issued on 28.11.95 by the National Board of Revenue.
iii. The investors will be encouraged to use locally produced equipment and
services.
iv. Except as provided for in d(II) above, existing GOB rules shall apply for payment
of corporate tax and all other taxes as applicable for such investment.
e. Commercial Aspects
i. The investors shall conduct all operations at their sole risks and expenses. If
there is no commercially viable production in the marginal/abandoned gas field,
or if the production achieved by the investors under the contract is insufficient to
reimburse the costs, the investors shall bear the losses.
ii. The investors will be required to undertake optimal development of marginal/

abandoned gas fields for maximum recovery.
iii. If an indication of a market outlet it not given by Petrobangla within 6 (six)

months after a request is made by the investors, they will be free to find the
market outlet within the country.
iv. The investors will be entitled to recover investment within an agreed period of
time under the terms of the contract. Investment recovery shall be limited only to
the respective field.
v. The investors will have the right to produce annually an agreed volume of gas
following good reservoir management practices.
vi. The investors will indemnify GOB/Petrobangla against any damage to resources
and third parties.
vii. The investors will be required to pay annually to Petrobangla a contract

administration fee and a training grant, which will not be included as recoverable
cost.
f. Pricing
Price of natural gas and associate products to be produced and delivered will be
determined through negotiation.
g. Safety and Environmental Protection
Laws, rules and policies formulated by the Government of Bangladesh from time
to time in this regard shall be followed.
h. Right Of Interpretation
In case of any ambiguity with regard to interpretation of any provision of these

procedures, the GOB’s interpretation shall be final.
i. Explanatory Note:
• For the purposes of these procedures, Chhatak, Kamta and Feni gas fields shall
be deemed to have been declared marginal/abandoned gas fields, and, the
negotiations/ discussions conducted so far with the approval accorded by the
government in 1999, shall be deemed to have been in compliance with the
above procedures.
7.3.1 Welfare
The private companies in consultation with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral
Resources/ Petrobangla will contribute towards the:
1. Development of roads, water supply, health and education facilities in the areas
of their operation and towards any such other activities to be undertaken,
2. Undertake programs to improve the state of environment in their areas of

operation.
7.4 RENEWABLE AND RURAL ENERGY POLICY
7.4.1 General Policy Issues
A. SUSTAINABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT
All energy development programs are to be aimed at sustainable development with

minimal environmental effect.
B. RURAL ENERGY
Rural sector plays a vital role in the national life in terms of economic activities,
agricultural production and population. Therefore, energy needs of the rural areas are to
be given priority in all activities related to the overall development of the energy sector.
C. BIOMASS FUELS
Direct and total replacement of biomass by commercial energy will be prohibitive for
financial and infrastructural constrains. Biomass fuels will, therefore, continue to play an
important role in the energy scene of the country for many years to come.
D. COMMERCIAL FUELS
Upper limit of supply of biomass fuels, imposed by the availability of land, would
necessitate supplementing the supply side in the rural areas with commercial fuels.
Penetration of commercial fuels into rural areas and all other activities related thereto are
be planned and implemented when the overall program for development of the
commercial fuels are drawn up.
E. ENERGY-MIX
Demand of total energy in the rural areas are to be met by a mix of bio-mass fuel,
commercial fuels and the renewable energy technologies and their composition would
vary from place to place.
7.4.2 RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY
A. INTRODUCTION
A.1 Energy is one of the most important ingredients required to alleviate poverty, realize socio-
economic and human development. The energy prospect is generally assessed on the basis of
available commercial sources i.e., fossil fuel like gas, coal, oil etc. In Bangladesh efficient
utilization of renewable energy resources is yet to assume commercial dimensions and hence a
rational policy dissemination on renewable energy usage is essential. The renewable energy
covers solar, wind, biomass, small hydro, geo-thermal, tidal, wave etc. in different form.
A.2 The frightening prospect of scarce non-renewable energy sources in a strife torn world
presents one of the major concerns of mankind today. Though, energy derived from oil, gas and
coal will play a vital role in meeting a growing demand for many years to come, the realization of
the exhaustive nature of world’s fossil fuels have focused interest and effort on harnessing
alternative energy resources. Time has come to give recognition to the use of renewable energy
resource which is free from environmental pollution, keep control over deforestation and abating
atmospheric emissions.
A.3 At present the organizations/utilities under the following ministries are responsible for
taking care of the various types of energy in Bangladesh
• Ministry of Power, Energy & Mineral Resources
• Ministry of Science, Information & Communication Technology
• Local Government Engineering Department
B. GOVERNMENT POLICY
Government of Bangladesh has adopted a National Energy Policy (NEP) in the year
1996 giving emphasis for the development of Renewable Energy.
The major objectives of the NEP are:
• To provide energy for sustainable economic growth so that the economic

development activities of different sectors are not constrained due to shortage
of energy.
• To meet the energy needs of different zones of the country and of different
socio-economic groups.
• To ensure optimum development of all the indigenous energy sources (e.g.
commercial fuels, biomass fuels, and other renewable energy sources).
• To ensure sustainable operation of the energy utilities.
• To ensure rational use of total energy sources.
• To ensure environmentally sound sustainable energy development programs
• To encourage public and private sector participation in the development and
management of the energy sector.
In order to translate these policy objectives into actual investment projects government
has taken keen interest to formulate and adopt a Renewable Energy Policy. To
accelerate the growth of renewable energy sector of the country, NEP has
recommended establishing Renewable Energy Development Agency (REDA).
C. IMPORTANCE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT
C.1 Fossil energy resources in Bangladesh consist primarily of natural gas. Domestic
oil reserve is considered negligible. Bangladesh has also some deposits of peat in the
south-western region of the country which have low calorific value. However, the country
has substantial bituminous coal deposits in the north western region at Barapukuria and
also more coal fields bear potential for large scale mining of them are under active
consideration of Government for exploration.
C.2 Access to electricity in Bangladesh is one of the lowest in the world; coverage
today stands around 32% of the total population. However the rural areas of Bangladesh,
where 76% of the population live, is seriously deprived of the electricity facility. Larger
energy supplies and greater efficiency of energy use are thus necessary to alleviate
poverty and to meet the basic needs of a growing population. But it is difficult and
expensive only utilizing commercial energy. It is therefore, necessary to tap different
sources of renewable energy and to use them efficiently for the benefit of the people. For
this, renewable energy development program will be taken in the areas where potential
renewable energy resources are available considering financial, economical & technical
viability and keeping in view the Environmental Quality Standard (EQS). Plant location,
size and design will be considered on the basis of available energy resources of the area
and efficient conversion of energy will be given preference. Priority will be given to the
rural areas where national grid expansion is expensive. This will reduce the pressure on
the demand of commercial power supply and will help to avoid costly grid expansion and
will also keep environment pollution free.
C.3 GOB has declared its vision to provide electricity for all by the year 2020. Major
electrification through grid expansion is not a viable option mainly due to inaccessibility
and low consumer density. Renewable energy is environmentally sustainable, socially
acceptable and economically viable option in the off-grid locations. To fulfil the GOB’s
objectives of electrification, development of renewable energy resources will play a vital
role for off-grid electrification.
D. RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY REQUIREMENT
D.1 Prior attempts to develop renewable energy in Bangladesh have met with limited
success due to policy, institutional, financing, market, information, technical and human
resource barriers. This policy intends to reduce these barriers and provide a sound and
sustainable implementation framework to tap the renewable energy potential of
Bangladesh.
D.2 Private capital investment for implementing the renewable energy is a major issue
to be considered. This policy envisages accomplishment of its objectives by mobilizing a
concerted national effort with the continued co-operation and commitment of
government, international organizations, bilateral and multilateral funding institutions,
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Community Based Organizations (CBOs), Non-
government Organizations (NGOs), research organizations, universities and private
sector etc. It has become increasingly clear that for the development of renewable
energy, a favorable atmosphere is to be established to attract private investment as well
as cheaper sources of funding need to be exploited. Furthermore, innovative new
financing opportunities including micro financing may be utilized to attract private capital
to supplement the energy deficiencies in the rural areas and thus to fulfill the aspiration
of the poor people.
D.3 To encourage private sector participation for the development of renewable

energy resources through establishment a institutional framework, formulation of
Renewable Energy Policy is essential.
E. OBJECTIVES OF RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY
The major objectives of the renewable energy policy are:

• Promotion of renewable energy attracting private capital investment
• To accelerate electrification program using renewable energy resources
• To reduce pressure on commercial fuels
• Generation of power utilizing renewable energy to share at least 5% of total
demand by 2010 and 10% by 2020.
• To ensure optimum development of all renewable energy sources
• To ensure environmentally sound sustainable energy development programs
• To encourage public and private sector participation in the development
renewable energy
• To promote competition among the entrepreneurs
F. MODALITY FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS
6.1 Renewable Energy Development Agency (REDA) will be established under the Power
Division, Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral for promotion and development of different type
of renewable energy technologies (RETs). REDA will start functioning with GOB fund and
subsequently devise its business plan for long-term sustainability. REDA will look after
government interest in renewable energy projects. Until REDA is formed Power Division of the
Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources or its assignee will facilitate the development of
renewable energy.
G. FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
• GOB may allocate funds for financing the capital investment required for
renewable energy projects.
• A revolving Renewable Energy Trust Fund may be created with grants from
Global Environmental Facility (GEF) and other climate change abatement
funds to support renewable energy projects in Bangladesh.
• Government of Bangladesh (GOB) may establish renewable energy projects

considering carbon emission trading as a signatory of Kyoto Protocol.
• GOB may secure funds from International Donors by implementing Clean

Development Mechanism (CDM).
• Funds may be raised for the development of renewable energy projects

issuing Corporate Bonds with the consent of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC).
• Foreign banks may be allowed to underwrite the issue of shares and bonds
by the private power companies with the recognition by SEC of such
underwriting.
• Tax facilities for private sector instruments as available to Non-Banking

Financial Institutions.
H. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)
It is stipulated that the project proponent must follow “Bangladesh Environmental

Conservation Act’ 1995” and “Environmental Conservation Rules’ 1997” at the time of
establishing renewable energy project and clearance from the Department of
Environment would also be needed in this regard.
I. TARIFF FOR SALE OF POWER
I.1 POWER OFF TAKE

It will be the responsibility of the renewable energy entrepreneurs or sponsors to find
customers for electricity. Sponsor will have direct contract with the customers for the
sale of electricity on terms mutually agreed upon. The distribution system required for
the supply of electricity to the contracted customers may be built by the Sponsors
themselves or they can use the existing transmission and distribution systems, if there is
adequate capacity. The sponsor will require to pay a wheeling charge to the owner of
transmission/distribution facilities. The wheeling charges and other terms and conditions
will be mutually agreed upon between the sponsor and the owner of the
transmission/distribution facilities. Utilities (BPDB, DESA, DESCO, REB) may buy
electricity generated from grid-connected renewable energy projects through mutually
agreed “Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)”
I.2 PRICE REGULATION
GOB will not regulate the price of electricity generated from renewable energy source
which shall be the contracted price between the sponsor and the consumers. After
establishment of ERC, it will decide about future price regulation based on GOB policies.
J. FISCAL INCENTIVES
The following Fiscal Incentives would be provided to renewable energy projects

sponsors:
J.1 Renewable energy project sponsors whether public or private shall be
exempted from corporate income tax for a period of 15 years.
J.2 100% depreciation in the first year for solar photovoltaic, solar thermal
projects and 100% depreciation in five (5) years for wind, biomass, geothermal,
tidal and small hydro projects.
J.3 The sponsors will be allowed to import plant and equipment directly related
to renewable energy projects without payment of customs duties, VAT (Value
Added Tax) and any other surcharges as well as import permit fee provided that
the equipment is not manufactured or produced locally.
J.4 Repatriation of equity along with dividends will be allowed freely in case of
foreign investors.
J.5 Exemption from income tax in Bangladesh for foreign lenders to such
companies.
J.6 The foreign investors will be free to enter into joint ventures.
J.7 The companies will be exempted from the requirements of obtaining
insurance/reinsurance only from the National Insurance Company, namely
Sadharan Bima Corporation (SBC). Private power companies will be allowed to
buy insurance of their choice as per requirements of the lenders and the utilities.
J.8 The Instruments and Deeds required to be registered under local regulations
will be exempted from stamp duty payment.
J.9 Power generation has been declared as an industry and the companies are
eligible for all other concessions, which are available to industrial projects.
J.10 The private parties may raise local and foreign finance in accordance with
regulations applicable to industrial projects as defined by the Board of Investment
(BOI).
J.11 Local engineering and manufacturing companies will be encouraged to
provide indigenously manufactured equipment of international standard to
renewable energy project sponsors.
K. OTHER FACILITIES AND INCENTIVES FOR FOREIGN INVESTORS
The following other facilities and incentives would be provided to renewable

energy projects sponsors:
K.1 Tax exemption on royalties, technical know how and technical assistance
fees and facilities for their repatriation.
K.2 Tax exemption on interest on foreign loans.
K.3 Tax exemption on capital gains from transfer of shares by the investing
company.
K.4 Avoidance of double taxation in case of foreign investors on the basis of

bilateral agreements.
K.5 Exemption of income tax for upto three years for the expatriate personnel
employed under the approved industry.
K.6 Remittance of upto 50% of salary of the foreigners employed in

Bangladesh and facilities for repatriation of their savings and retirement
benefits at the time of their return.
K.7 No restrictions on issuance of work permits to project related foreign

nationals and employees.
K.8 Facilities for repatriation of invested capital, profits and dividends.
K.9 TAKA, the national currency, would be convertible for international

payments in current account.
K.10 Re-investment of remittable dividend to be treated as new foreign

investment.
K.11 Foreign owned companies duly registered in Bangladesh would be on the
same footing as locally owned companies with regard to borrowing
facilities.
K.13 All the fiscal incentives listed in section J (Fiscal Incentives) & K (Other
Facilities and Incentives for Foreign Investors) will also be applicable for
renewable energy based captive generation having separate accounts
and inventory statement.
L. RIGHT OF INTERPRETATION
In case of any ambiguity with regard to interpretation of any provision of this policy
document, the GOB interpretation shall be final.
7.5 POWER POLICY
7.5.1 Demand forecast
a. The methodology of forecasting linking electricity with socio-economic goals of

the country is to be used for projecting demand for electricity.
b. An agreed overall projection on demand is to be developed and used for all

planning purposes. The projection is to be updated and if needed readjusted
periodically based on achievement of targets.
c. A database on the power sector is to be developed which shall be continuously

updated.
7.5.2 Long Term Planning and Project Implementation
a. Long term planning for development of the power sector is to be drawn up on the
basis of the projection on demand, cost of supply, reliability and quality of supply
and adequate transmission and distribution facilities.
b. Least cost approach is to be the basis for generation planning. Realistic

exogenous constrain like transportation and logistic of fuel supply, energy
security, maximum unit size, project management and environment impact of
technologies are to be defined and used as inputs for least cost expansion
planning. Sufficient constraints may be built into the controlling factors related to
supply in the west zone.
c. An overall master plan for electricity is to be developed incorporating the least

cost generation expansion plan, transmission plan and distribution plan and
phasing of projects. This master plan shall be the basis for all development
programs and projects of the power sector.
d. Bankable documents and detailed feasibility studies of such identified projects to

be implemented at specific sites are to be prepared in advance by the respective
utilities/private companies for financing either by the Government or the
commercial banks.
e. Special projects are to be identified (for example power plants in the west zone or
the off-shore islands), implementation of which within a time frame are essential
either to improve operational performance of the grid or to provide electricity on
socioeconomic considerations. Criteria for their acceptance may differ from the
overall criteria for other projects of the sub-sector.
f. Distribution agencies such as REB, DESA as well as BPDB and the possible
distribution companies in the private sector are to take up marginal expansion
projects for their respective franchise area or a part or parts of it in annual rolling
sequences under five year plans.
7.5.3 Investment and lending terms
a. Development of the power sub-sector is to be such that the utilities can function
economically and reliably and their financial situation permits generation of
resources internally for financing at least a part of their development activities.
b. Utilities are to develop appropriate corporate financial structures along with
efficient systems of accounting and financial management in order to facilitate
accountability, transparency, to help assessing financial performance, decision
making in investment, cost control and economic operation.
c. The terms of lending for financing offered by the Government to the utilities is to
be fixed in such a way that the interest does not exceed the lowest slab of
interest on loans offered by the commercial banks of the country.
d. The utilities are to be permitted to procure generating plants and other items of
generation, transmission and distribution through international competitive bids
and local suppliers/manufacturers to be provided with adequate incentives to
participate in such bids.
e. Efforts are to be made to raise capital from the market for the utilities as a whole
or its individual projects through bank loans, floating share certificates and bonds.
Efforts are to be made to encourage non-resident Bangladeshi, including wage
earners abroad, to invest in the power sub-sector.
f. Incentives like tax exemption may be provided to encourage investments in the

energy sector. A tax holiday of at least 5 years may be offered for the energy
related projects.
g. No duty (including VAT) is to be levied on machinery, equipment, spares and

other consumables for energy related projects. In case it becomes necessary to
impose customs duties and taxes, then separate budgetary allocations are to be
made to cover such expenses.
h. Public sector utilities, implementing government financed projects, are to be

allowed moratorium periods for repayment of loans covering at least the
implementation phases of their projects.
i. Existing public sector institutions are to be transformed into public limited

companies over a period of time in phases and when so done are to be
registered with stock exchanges in Dhaka and overseas.
j. Public sector utilities are to have the option to enter into joint venture with private
sector (Local and Foreign) in the fields of generation and distribution of electricity.
k. Protection from foreign exchange fluctuations should be given to power sector

development projects.
7.5.4 Fuels and Technologies
a. Efforts are to be made to maximize use of indigenous fuels, namely natural gas,
coal, hydro-electricity and coal bed methane in the future generation mix of the
country.
b. A mix of fuel for power generation is to be evolved so as to reduce reliance on

any particular fuel type. Least cost fuel option for generation of electricity should
be chosen.
c. Criteria for selection of a technology are to include its provenness, maintainability,

reliability, adaptability and efficiency and environmental compatibility.
d. Local coal is to be given preference for the future coal fired plants. In case of
import of coal, infrastructure for its handling and transportation are to be
developed in keeping with the volume of coal import for power generation.
e. Construction of nuclear power plants is to be considered on the basis of its cost-

economics viz-a-viz alternatives using imported fuels and the problems of
logistics of handling and transportation of oil and coal. Safety and waste
management are to be given priority in selecting technology for nuclear power
project.
f. Efforts are to be made to standardize systems, sub-systems and components of

energy equipment so as to optimize cost, improve reliability of the system,
facilitate operation and maintenance and optimize inventory of spares.
7.5.5 Power Supply to the West Zone
a. Efforts are to be made to gradually bridge the gap in electricity supply between
the west and east zone.
b. Gradually a regional lead generation balance is to be established in the West

Zone. The inter-connector should not be loaded beyond 50% of its capacity so
that outage of one circuit will not overload the other circuit. The second East West
inter-connector may be taken up in future for reliability and stability of the power
system.
c. More Gas based power plants should be planned and implemented in the West
Zone. The first coal-fired plant in the west zone is to be taken up for
implementation urgently.
d. Effort are to be made to implement the Ruppoor Nuclear Power Project, if this
option is found competitive with the imported fuels, e.g. coal and oil.
e. Transmission and distribution network shall be developed in keeping with the

planned growth in demand in the west zone.
f. Reliability and quality of supply in the west zone is to be improved.
7.5.6 Power Supply to Isolated and Remote Load Centres
a. Plans for generation of electricity for isolated and remote areas like off-shore
islands are to be drawn up separately and criteria for its acceptance shall be fixed
on the basis of fuels and technology options relevant to such areas
b. Transmission and distribution plans for similar load centres are be developed on
an area basis.
7.5.7 Tariff
a. The tariff setting will be consistent with the financial requirements of the power
sector institution.
• Meets operating expenses
• Earns adequate return for self investment in future expansion
b. The tariffs will take into account
• Load management and energy conservation
• Efficiency improvement
c. The GOB’s policy objectives will be addressed in tariff setting and

recommendations especially on social commitments.
• Tariff to each consumer class reflects the cost of supply
• BPDBs be subsidised by direct transfer from the GOB with the aim of
promoting rural development
• Gradual withdraw of subsidy for agriculture consumers
• Gradual withdraw of subsidy for domestic consumers except those fall in

the life line slab (0-100) units presently).
• In the interim subsidies to domestic and agriculture consumers be

supported through the national budget.
d. Automatic price adjustment due to change of the following using a well specified
formula:
• Exchange rate
• Consumer / industrial price index
• Fuel price
7.5.8 Captive and Stand-by Generation
a. Permission to install captive generation facilities is to be accorded by the

regulatory authority.
b. Categories of activities where captive generation may be allowed shall include

the following:
Process industries, where loss of power may cause loss of a batch of

production.
Co-generation by industries.
Industrial activities like fertilizer, paper and rayon where fluctuations in

frequency may cause the loss of a batch of production.
Stand by generation for Cinema halls, recreational facilities with capacity

for not less than 100 persons, hospitals and other facilities of the health
services like preservation of temperature sensitive drugs needing reliable
power supply, cold storage, aviation, railway communication and related
facilities, media services, including TV and radio, telecommunication and
for high rise buildings.
c. Price of gas used as fuel for captive generation (including stand-by) shall be fixed
from time to time as done for other gas consumers.
7.5.9 System Loss Reduction
a. Total system loss is to be brought down to a level typical to the successful utilities
of the developing countries in the region, subject to cost effectiveness of such
reduction in loss.
b. The auxiliary consumption of existing power plants is to be reviewed and

attempts to be made to minimize such consumption through retrofitting subject to
availability of financial resources.
c. Measures like transmission at higher voltages, optimum sizing of conductors, use

of appropriate reactive power sources and adaptation of other technical
measures are to be explored. Identified measures are to be implemented if found
cost effective.
d. Optimization of the distribution systems through rehabilitation of distribution lines,

sizing of transformers, use of capacitor banks are to be undertaken to reduce
distribution loss. Standards for the distribution network are to be developed and
implemented. Elevation of the existing distribution voltage is to be considered on
the basis of its cost economics.
e. Energy meters are to be checked and calibrated periodically as follows:
Bulk commercial and industrial consumers : at least twice every years
Domestic consumers : at least once every 5 years
System meters : at least once a year
f. All industrial consumers are to provide information on their total production and
total consumption of electricity in order to estimate their specific energy
consumption.
g. Consumers are to be motivated through a social movement to realise that paying

for electricity consumed is a social and moral obligation of each citizen.
h. Dishonest consumers and the personnel of the utility found guilty of collaborating
with such dishonest consumers are to be liable to severe punishment.
i. Attractive incentive and prohibitive punishment scheme is to be developed and

implemented in order to motivate utility employees to improve commercial
operation.
7.5.10 Load Management and Conservation
a. Measures are to be taken to reduce peak hour load. The possible areas where
policy intervention can help implement such measures are as follows:
(i) Commercial activities in shopping centers and malls are to be closed

down at 6 P.M. on working days. Exception to this shall be
restaurants, medicine shops, groceries and shops for provisions.
(ii) Ceremonial illumination (for the purpose of private receptions, parties,
wedding ceremonies) etc are to be restricted.
(iii) Industries are to stagger their holidays so that the holidays are
distributed over the week.
(iv) Second off-peak tariff may be introduced for consumption between 11

P.M. and 5 A.M. to encourage industries to stagger their second shift.
(v) The use of Fluorescent tube lights / compact fluorescent tubelights

(CFL) and energy saving bulbs are to be encouraged in place of
incandescent lamps resulting in drastic reduction in system demand.
b. Following measures are to be taken for conservation of energy.
(i) Use of Power Factor Improvement plants are to be made mandatory

for all new consumers using induction motors in industries, bulk
commercial consumers and irrigation pumps. Existing consumers of
these categories are also to be encouraged to install such plants.
(ii) Attempts are to be made by the utilities to improve efficiency of the

operating plants to the extent possible through rehabilitation.
Replacement of power plants shall be made if this is more economic
than rehabilitation.
(iii) High efficiency appliance like fluorescent lamps with efficient ballast,
electronic regulators for fans and high efficiency electric motors are to
be used. Replacement of existing devices shall be encouraged.
(iv) Industries producing conventional appliances are to be encouraged to

change / modify their production line for manufacturing identified
efficient appliances.
(v) The utilities, local R & D and educational institutions shall undertake a
joint survey to identify measures of conservation at the end-use level.
Consumers will be motivated to adapt such identified measures.
c. Commercial banks should be encouraged to provide loans at softer terms for

implementation of conservation measures at the end-use level.
7.5.11 Reliability of Supply
a. Adequate generation capacity is to be installed on an emergency basis to overcome

the existing power crisis.
b. Adequate reserve margin is to be provided by installing capacities in excess of peak

demand (say 25%) so that the system can reliably accommodate planned
maintenance and forced outage. Reliability criteria like loss of load probability of the
system are also to be prescribed and reviewed from time to time, which are to be
considered for generation expansion plans.
c. Planning of major maintenance, including overhauling, retrofitting and rehabilitation is

to be done meticulously and ahead of time so that necessary spares, experts and
logistics are available in time. Interim replacement or rehabilitation of power plants
are to be ensured at appropriate time (12 to 15 years for steam turbine and 8 to 10
for gas turbines), for which adequate funds are to be made available in time.
d. Yearly maintenance schedule is to be drawn up and implemented strictly without any

exception.
e. Procurement method for spares and expert services are to be simplified so that
supplies and services can be procured on call from abroad. An appropriate inventory
of spares and consumable is to be maintained.
f. Continued training of maintenance personnel is to be ensured to develop an

adequate number of maintenance manpower. Dissemination of knowledge and use
of feedback from past maintenance works are also to be ensured. Attractive salaries,
remuneration and other forms of incentives and facilities are to be given to such
personnel.
g. Expertise is to be developed in the field of protection engineering so as to ensure co-

ordination, reliability and availability of protection systems.
h. Maintenance of distribution system is to be separated from functions of commercial

operations. Maintenance personal are to be dedicated exclusively for operation and
maintenance works.
7.5.12 System stability
a. Adequate transmission links between generators and major load centers are to be
provided to enhance system stability.
b. Fast acting relays and breakers, auto re-closing of transmission line, co-ordination
among protective devices, quick acting governors and excitation system along with
automatic load shedding scheme are to be provided.
c. Continuous monitoring and analysis of problems, setting and resetting of control and
protective devices to respond to changed conditions are to be ensured.
7.5.13 load Dispatching
a. Load dispatching center is to ensure co-ordination among the power stations and
load centers for economic, efficient and reliable operation of the power system
through continuous control of load flows, regulation of voltage and reactive powers
and reduction of transmission losses.
b. The load dispatch center of the concerned utility is to be equipped with state of the
art technology for ensuring the above objectives.
7.5.14 Institutional Issues
Power Sector is to be restructured along functional lines. The functions of generation

transmission and distribution of electricity are to be separated.
A. GENERATION
Measures to improve efficiency and operations in the existing generation stations

should be pursued along with the addition of more capacity in the private and public
sectors. All existing power generation units are to be separated through a
corporatized national power generation entity which will pave the way for
restructuring power generation on commercial lines. Individual power stations may be
incorporated as independent power generation companies in future, if deemed
appropriate and necessary. In case of new generation, projects would be selected to
enable the desired security of supply at generation level to be met at least cost. The
new generation capacity would be sought through a mix of sources i.e. both public
and private.
Private sector power generation policy of Bangladesh has been announced to

facilitate private sector participation in the power generation.
B. TRANSMISSION
Efficient network development, expansion and management capable of accessing

the most efficient supply of power and transport it to customers should be designed
and implemented. Resources, domestic and foreign have to be arranged for these
purposes. The transmission network will be owned, operated, planned and
developed by a corporatized entity in the public sector.
C. DISTRIBUTION
Commercial and financial performances of the distribution entities are to be improved

in order to reduce system loss. Moreover projects and programs should be put in
place to expand the scope for demand management and explore the possibilities of
innovative solutions like remote reading, computer networking, dividing BPDB and
DESA's distribution system into a number of profit center based on commercial lines
etc. These steps would ensure the viability of the industry, increase its attractiveness
for investment and serve more customers within any given supply of electricity. In this
context the specific measures to be considered to strengthen the distribution
segment are as follows:
• Introduction of consumer voice and organisational accountability in the form of

citizen/client charter.
• The existing distribution system of BPDB and DESA is to be transformed into a

number of new corporatized entities to be incorporated under the Companies
Act. 1994. A new distribution company named Dhaka Electric Supply
Company Ltd. (DESCO) has been created in November 1996
• Introduction of private capital and management participation in distribution

companies
• The rural Electric co-operatives (PBSs) under the overall assistance, co-
ordination, advice, supervision and monitoring of REB to continue functioning
and additional PBSs to be formed as and when required.
• Remote Area Power Supply System (RAPSS): Introduction of distributed

generation along with distribution area franchise for a certain period for rapid
coverage of off-grid remote areas. Adequate government support including
fiscal incentives is to be provided to private entrepreneurs to attract private
investment.
• Frontier application of technologies such as remote reading, monitoring and

control including accessing intranet network
D. REMOTE AREA POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM (RAPSS)
An approach of off-grid distribution
Access to electricity by the majority people by 2020 is a befitting national goal. But it is
not possible only through national grid system. To increase the electricity penetration
special effort need to be given on remote area electrification programme. To this end,
Government is considering “Remote Area Power Supply System (RAPSS)” programme.
It will be implemented in the private sector. Such off-grid area will be given to the
entrepreneurs/investors by allowing distributed generation and providing distribution area
franchise for a certain period. Adequate government support including fiscal incentives is
to be provided to the sponsors promote RAPSS programme and to make electricity
available to the consumers at reasonable and affordable price.
E. POLICY GUIDELINES FOR SMALL POWER PLANTS (SPP) IN PRIVATE SECTOR:
Policy Guidelines for Small Power Plants (SPP) in Private Sector has been approved in
1998 to serve non-grid areas and provide opportunity for sale of excess power from
captive generators to consumers in the neighbouring area. SPPs have given similar
fiscal and other incentives as provided in “Private Sector Power Generation Policy of
Bangladesh.
Single Buyer
A single buyer model may be adopted where the buyer purchases all the required power
from the generators based on economic load dispatch and sells to different distribution
companies. The Single Buyer shall be a public sector company.
a. There may be a board of Directors, to be appointed by the Government for each of

the companies as mentioned above, for directing and monitoring the performance of
the company. Majority of Directors, including the chairman are to be from various
interest groups outside the Government. Government may retain indirect control on
specified matters through nominated Directors (from within the Government) with
voting rights.
b. The new companies should have the right to select employees on their own terms
and conditions of employment so as to attract and retain high quality staff. The
Government shall ensure that the interests of the employees of the existing utilities
are protected during the restructuring process.
7.5.15 Private Sector Participation
a. Local and expatriate entrepreneurs are to be allowed to participate in development of

the power sector.
In order to create appropriate and enabling conditions for improved public sector
performance, attracting private and multilateral capital flows on a sustained basis and
giving value for money to customers, a series of reform measures have been
undertaken which would be continued and to be updated/revised as and when
necessary.
i. Generation: To introduce competition, induct foreign private capital and more
importantly, to increase power supply to alleviate the acute shortage, specific
projects included in the list of generation projects identified through national
planning should be offered for private investment. Competitive tenders on the
basis of Build-Own-Operate (BOO) and joint venture should be invited. For
existing old Power Plants, Rehabilitate, Operate & Maintain (ROM) project
may be considered as & where appropriate.
ii. Distribution: To encourage and attract local entrepreneurs in distributed

generation and supply in remote off grid areas, Remote Area Power Supply
System (RAPSS) policy may be adopted providing similar fiscal and other
incentives as provided in the "Policy Guideline for Small Power Generation
(SPP) in Private Sector.
iii. Contracting of Services: Contracting out some of the commercial functions

currently performed by BPDB and DESA may be considered particularly meter
reading, billing and/or collections.
iv. Wheeling Arrangement: The electricity generated by private generators may

be supplied to grid system as per agreement with the power purchaser/single
buyer and Transmission Company. The private / public generators may also
sell directly to large consumers through the transmission and distribution
facilities of other companies provided the facilities are adequate and the
commercial terms and conditions of such wheeling arrangements are
acceptable to all concerned.
b. Terms and conditions under which the private sector shall participate in generation
and distribution are to be settled jointly by the Government, the proposed regulatory
commission, entrepreneur and the concerned utility companies.
7.5.16 Organizational and Human Resource Development
a. Organization charts for operation and maintenance of new corporatized entities are
to be designed in such a way that total manpower does not exceed the optimum
level.
b. Present manpower of the utility are to be reviewed to identify excess manpower.

Such excess manpower may be utilized for future projects and expansion.
c. Distribution utility boundaries are to be rationalized in order to avoid parallel

operation and to optimize human resource utilization.
d. Employment opportunities or labour intensiveness should never be a criterion for-

acceptance of projects of power sub-sector.
e. A comprehensive training program is to be developed for the power sector, which

shall encompass all functional areas of the power sector and specifically include
system planning, construction management, system operation and maintenance,
utility management, financial management and computer aided operation.
f. Training is to be linked to career planning of professionals of the utilities.
g. The Government and/ or the utilities are to provide adequate funds for
implementation of the training program.
h. Training facilities available in other local institution are to be utilized.
i. Local training facilities are to be strengthened. Professionals receiving training

abroad are to participate in local training as resource personnel in specific training
program for ensuring smooth dissemination of technology and knowledge.
j. Local training facilities are to be made available to the future entrepreneurs of the
private sector on payment of prescribed charges.
k. Inter-utility linkage in the field of human resource development is to be strengthened.
7.5.17 Regional / International Co-operation
a. Possibility of Cross Border electricity trade among neighbouring countries may be

examined.
b. Linkages of local utilities with those in other countries are to be established to form a
basis for exchange of experience in power development and training of human
resources.
7.5.18 Technology Transfer and Research Program
a. Transfer of technology is to be given due consideration in development of the power

sector.
b. Efforts are to be made to substitute import by local inputs. This may include both
hardware and software like engineering, design and project management. At
distribution level in particular, locally produced materials and equipment are to be
used to substitute import.
c. Local industries are to be assessed in order to identify manufacturing capabilities

relevant to projects of power sector. Industries, thus identified, are to be encouraged
to manufacture identified items as per standards.
d. Utilities are to form a group of experts to provide advisory and consulting service in
the power sector. Such groups shall be allowed to function on a commercial basis.
e. A comprehensive Research and development program addressing problems of

electrical energy is to be drawn up and implemented in cooperation with local
universities/ BITs and R & D institutions. Adequate funds are to be made available for
implementation of the R & D program.
7.5.19 Environmental Policy
a. Development of power sub-sector shall be such that it is sustainable environmentally

and cost-effective at the same time.
b. Environmental Impact Assessment shall be mandatory for any project of electricity

generation. Clearance of projects from environmental point of view shall be accorded
without undue delay so as to avoid cost and schedule over runs.
c. The Department of Environment shall prescribe standard contents and formats of EIA
to be submitted on electricity projects and also define other regulatory codes, guides
and standards on emission and thermal pollution from generating plants. Same
environmental standards shall be applicable to the new plants in the private and the
public sectors.
d. All new projects shall conform to the limits, codes, guides and standards that may
exist at the time of project planning. In case of power plants already existing or under
implementation, efforts shall be made to reduce the pollution as close as possible to
the permissible level. In such cases economics of power generation and its effect on
tariff shall be taken into account in reducing their pollution level.
e. Provisions under the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Control Act (Act 21 of 1993, the
Government of Bangladesh) and its regulations in addition to environmental
standards of the Department of Environment shall be mandatory in installation,
operation and maintenance of nuclear power plants.
f. Mode of disposal of wastes in case of coal-fired plants and radioactive wastes of

nuclear power plants, as defined by the Department of Environment and the Nuclear
Safety and Radiation Protection Division of BAEC, shall be followed.
g. Watershed management should be an integral part of a hydropower project.

Concerned government agencies should take care of the soil conservation and
afforestation /reforestation issues and other activities to arrest soil erosion and
consequently siltation within the dam area.
7.5.20 Legal Issues
Appropriate modification/revisions of the existing Law, Acts, Ordinances, Regulations,

etc are to be made in consultation with the Ministry of Law in order to facilitate
implementation of various provisions of the National Energy Policy.
7.6 RURAL ELECTRIFICATION POLICY
7.6.1 General Policy Issues
a. Planning of rural electrification is to be made consistent with the overall goals of

socio-economic development of the country.
b. Economic viability and overall economic sustainability are to be considered at the

time of extension of rural electrification program.
7.6.2 Specific Policy Issues
F. DEMAND ESTIMATION AND PLANNING
a. Demand for electricity in any rural area is to be duly assessed for different time
horizons based on the demands for different categories of end-users.
b. Factors influencing growth in demand like possibilities of surplus income,

changes in life style, scopes for diversification of economic activities and
interdependence of end-uses and their effect on the demand for electricity are to
be taken into cognizance and to be reflected in demand forecasts.
c. Area of coverage within a PBS or the PBS itself is to be determined on the basis
of load quantum, numbers and mix of consumers and load factor.
d. Phasing of coverage of an area within a defined utility boundary and also an utility
unit (PBS) is to be drawn up on the basis of growth of load and economics of
extension.
e. The existing Master Plan is to be updated to provide a realistic program on

bringing all the rural areas of the country under electrification in phases. Such a
Master Plan, delineating load center and their growth potentials, is to be the basis
for rural electrification irrespective of the utility to be actually involved in its
implementation. Area based micro planning is to be integrated for preparing the
Master Plan on rural electrification.
G. APPROACH FOR EXTENSION
a. Primarily the techno-economic considerations are to determine the priority of

areas to be electrified.
b. In case of resource constraints, areas with better prospects of utilization and

better economic return shall be given preference over others.
c. In case an area within a PBS or a PBS itself is taken up for electrification for
reasons other than technical and economic viability, then the concerned PBS is to
be given financial support, including rescheduling of debt servicing {e.g. extended
moratorium).
H. PALLI BIDYUT SAMITY (PBS)
a. Electrification through Palli Eidyut Samity with scopes for participation of rural
consumers in the entire program is to be continued.
I. FINANCING FOR EXTENSION OF REB NETWORK
a. Adequate financial resources are to be allocated for implementation of the Master

Plan on rural electrification.
b. Conditions of financing (interest rate and repayment schedule) are to be such that
a PBS can meet the debt servicing liabilities without frequently increasing the
tariff rates.
c. The existing system of repayment of debts by the PBSs for 30 years including a
grace period of 5 years may be continued with some relaxation for financially
weaker PBSs (having low load density and low utilization factor), especially
during the initial years of their commercial operation.
J. COST OPTIMIZATION AND NEED FOR IMPORT SUBSTITUTION
a. Capital cost for establishing PBS and construction of distribution lines including
other equipment is to be reduced by gradually replacing import with equivalent
locally produced items.
b. The private sector is to be encouraged to produce identified items of rural

electrification in sufficient quantities and according to the standard and quality to
be specified by REB.
c. Local producers are to be offered the opportunity and terms and conditions
equivalent to the imported items for rural electrification network in order to
encourage them to produce such items locally. Reduced duties may be charged
on imported raw materials to be used by the concerned manufacturing industries.
K. NUMBER OF PBS AND THE AVERAGE SIZE
a. Each PBS may cover on the average 6 Thanas and the average size of a PBS is
to be of the order of 1,800 Sq. Kilometers.
b. Minimum size of a PBS in terms of installed capacity is to be 20 MVA, while the

maximum size is to be determined by the trend of growth in demand. If
management of a PBS of size larger than lOO MW appears to be difficult, then
the PBS may be split into two PBS or a part of its load may be merged with an
adjacent smaller PBS, if available.
c. Depending on the area served, physical distance of the furthest consumer from
the PBS Headquarters, a PBS may be split into more than one rural
electrifications district. In this case the overhead of maintaining district offices is
to be optimized.
d. If an utility other than REB is given the responsibility for electrification of the
districts in Chittagong Hill Tracts, then the expansion of rural electrification
network in those areas is to meet the criteria followed for the REB network.
L. CAPACITY UTILIZATION AND LOAD FACTOR
a. Efforts are to be made to increase capacity utilization of the existing and future
PBS in order to improve their economic performance.
b. Target minimum annual sale of a PBS is to be not less than 60 GWh in order to
help them attain an economic break-even point.
M. DEMAND MANAGEMENT
a. Demand in a PBS is to be managed efficiently, so that the average to peak

demand ratio may be as high as possible. The peak demand is also to be
restricted so as to facilitate efficient demand management and economic
operation of the national grid.
b. Use of energy during off-peak hours is to be encouraged in order to improve

financial performance of the rural electrification network and the national grid.
N. DOMESTIC USE OF ELECTRICITY
c. Domestic connections to as many households in an electrified area as possible

is to be aimed so that an average household can have two incandescent lamps
of 100 W each or 3x60 Walt bulbs and one fan (70 W).
d. Domestic consumers are to be encouraged to avoid wasteful use of energy.
O. INDUSTRIAL DEMAND
e. Scopes for growth in industrial demand for electricity shall be exploited to the
extent possible.
f. A congenial astrosphere and incentive packages are to be developed and
offered to the private sector for establishing industrial units in the rural areas.
g. Categories of industries for implementation in rural areas are to be identified,

and if needed new industries of such categories are to be allowed to be set up in
rural areas only.
h. A list of industries may be drawn up for each PBS based on analysis of

resources available, priority and other techno-economical considerations. Such
a list of industries may be annexed to the master plan for rural electrification.
i. PBS with surplus cash may be encouraged to invest in local industrial ventures.
The local financial institutions may be encouraged to accept a solvent PBS as a
collateral security.
j. Credit for rural industries may be provided at softer terms and conditions based
on the consideration that the resulting improvement in rural economy,
diversification of activities and improvement in life style would help restriction of
migration and unplanned urbanization.
P. SYSTEM LOSS REDUCTION AND CONSERVATION
a. Efforts are to be made through the PBS members to bring down the non-
technical loss. Villagers are to be motivated to realize their social and moral
obligations to reduce loss. They should be convinced that the reduction of loss
would fetch many financial benefits to them, including scopes for equity
participation in industrial projects.
b. Villagers are to be motivated to avoid wasteful use of energy and the use of
electricity during peak hours is to be restricted.
c. Each Palli Bidyut Samity is to identify measures at different end-use levels so

that wasteful use of energy can be avoided through technological interventions.
Q. POWER GENERATION
If it becomes necessary to install separate power plants for the REB network,
the same are to be planned keeping in view the expansion plan for the national
grid and cost economics of such a project viz-a-viz its effect on the tariff
structure.
R. ENVIRONMENT
a. Environmental Impact Assessment for possible future power plants built by the
PBS/REB are to be conducted in the same line as applicable for any other
power plant.
S. TARIFF STRUCTURES
a. Tariff structure for rural consumers is to be developed in such a way that the
PBS is economically viable, while the rates are within the purchasing power of
the rural communities.
b. Rural industries may be offered lower tariff than the urban industries during off-
peak hours in order to stimulate rural industrial activities and to facilitate efficient
demand management.
c. Considering the importance of agriculture, special tariff facilities is to be offered

for irrigation pumps during off-peak hours.
d. Electricity consumption in rural commercial sector during peak hours is to be

discouraged through the differential tariff structure.
e. Operation of husking and milling units during peak hours are to be discouraged
by imposing high rates.
f. Any concession allowed to the agriculture, industries etc. due to tariff setting
below cost of service may be compensated by the Government.
T. RATIONALIZATION OF UTILITY AREAS
a. The supply areas are to be such that the network can be efficiently planned,
implemented and managed. If needed a utility area with low load density may be
merged with the adjacent utility area.
b. System load is to have sufficient magnitude. A minimum of about 15 MW would

be necessary while optimum levels would be over 50 MW.
c. The consumers served are to be at least of the order of about 50,000 with a
good mix of consumer types.
d. The demarcation between adjacent operational units is to be such that efficient

network configurations can be attained.
e. The supply area is to be contiguous and one utility should not have pockets of
supply areas within another utility.
U. INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
a. Scopes of REB activities may be widened for rapid rural electrification by

incorporating activities related to stimulation of demands for electricity;
especially in the industrial sector.
b. Advisory roles of external agencies (BPDB, BRDB, BADC and BSCIC) are to
aim at rural industrialization and diversification of economic activities. The
advisory board of REB is to be widened by inclusion of private sector
representative.
c. REB is to be provided with additional financial resources enabling it to

enhance its capability in expansion of the network to 20,000 Km per year in
place of present 12,000 km/year to electrify the rural areas of the whole
country by the year 2020.
Table 2.1 Agencies Responsible for Planning of the Energy Sector
Energy Sources Planning Commission Ministries and Agencies

Division Section/Wing
Commercial Energy Industry & Energy 1. OGNR Ministry of Power, Energy &
2. Power Mineral Resources and
3. Rural & Renewable concerned agencies
4. Energy Modeling &
Economics
Biomass Fuels Agriculture and Forestry Wing Ministry of Environment &
Rural Institution Forests and concerned
agencies
Animal Draft Power Agriculture and Ministry of Fisheries &
Rural Institution Livestock & concerned
agencies
Table 2.2 Agencies Involved in Development & Management of the Energy Sector
Functions Ministry / Agency

1. Commercial Energy Ministry of Power, Energy & Mineral Resources
1.1 Indigenous Fuels
a. Survey, geological mapping, a. Geological Survey of Bangladesh, IOCs
Exploration minerals
b. Leasing for extraction of Minerals b. Bangladesh Bureau of Mines
c. Exploration, Production, Transmission c. Petrobangla and its subsidiaries
distribution & marketing of indigenous
petroleum fuels
c1. Exploration of oil & gas c1. BAPEX, IOCs
c2. Operation of gas fields c2. BGFCL, SGFL, BAPEX, IOCs
c3. Transmission & distribution of gas c3. BGSL, GTC, JGTDSL, TGTDCL, WESGAS
within franchise areas
c4. Marketing of CNG c4. RPGCL, Private Company
d. Research, Training on Oil & Gas d. Bangladesh Petroleum Institute
1.2 Import of crude & petroleum product 1.2 Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation & its
processing, distribution & marketing of subsidiary companies
petroleum products
a. Import of crude & petroleum products a. BPC
& export of refinery products
b. Refining of crude b. ERL
c. Bitumen production c. ABPL
Functions Ministry / Agency
d. LPG Botting d. LPGL, Private Company
e. Blending of Lube Oil e. ELBL, SAOCL and private Company
f. Distribution & marketing of f. PADMA, MEGHNA AND JAMUNA OIL COMPANY
petroleum products
1.3 Electricity
a. Regulatory functions a. Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and chief
Electric Inspector
b. Generation b. BPDB, RPC, IPP
c. Transmission & distribution c. BPDB, DESA, REB, PGCB
d. Distribution
d1. In rural areas d1. REB
d2. In metropolitan area of Dhaka d2. DESA, DESCO
d3. All other areas excluding d1 & d2 d3. BPDB
1.4 Import of Coal 1.4 Private Sector

1.5 Energy Conservation: Conservation of 1.5 EMCC
energy in industrial units through energy
audits and studies.
2. Biomass Fuels and Animal Power
2.1 Production of Agricultural Residues 2.1 Ministry of Agriculture and its agencies,
farmers and households
2.2 Development & Management of Forest 2.2 Ministry of Environment and Forest
Resources Department of Forest for state owned forest
and also for extension support to village
forests.
2.3 Development of livestock resources 2.3 Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
Department of Livestock
3. Development of other Renewable
Energy Sources
3.1 Hydropower 3.1 BPDB
3.2 Research & Development on New- 3.2 BAEC, BAU, BCSIR, BUET, DU, REB and
renewable Energy Technologies Private Sector.
Table 3.1 Presently Known and Exploitable Indigenous Primary Energy Resources
Resource (location) Location Net Recoverable Production / Supply Comments

Reserve
Present Projected
64 Million tonnes 310,000 tons/yr 1 Million tonnes/year Reserve 300 Million tonnes
Barapukuria
(trial production) from 2004 in place
Coal (West Zone)
Khalaspir 137 Million tonnes - - -
Phulbari 80 Million tonnes - - -
Crude Oil (East Zone) Haripur 5.5 Million barrels 0 Not yet ascertained Appraisal of the field needed
(June'93)
Natural Gas (East Zone) 22 gas fields 15.4 TCF (June 2001) 1250 MMCFD
(April 2004)
Natural Gas Liquid (East Producing gas 45.4 Million barrels 532 tonnes/day After Commissioning of
Zone) Fields (June 2003) (June 2003) Kailastila & Beanibazar fields
Hydropower (East Zone) Kaptai N/A 1000 GWh/year 1000 GWh/year Only kaptai site being
exploited

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GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH

MINISTRY OF POWER, ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES

NATIONAL ENERGY POLICY

DHAKA, MAY 2004

1.0. INTRODUCTION ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

1.1 Background ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

2.0. EXISTING INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS----------------------------------------- 3

3.0. ENERGY RESOURCES --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4

3.1 Primary commercial energy resources---------------------------------------------------------- 4

4.0. Status of energy consumption --------------------------------------------------------------------- 8

4.1 Primary energy sources --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8

5.0. Supply options for the development of energy resources---------------------------------- 14

5.1 Current Option ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14

6.0. Policy Issues----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17

6.1 Database ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 17

7.0. recommended energy policy --------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

7.1 NON-RENEWABLE ENERGY POLICY ------------------------------------------------------ 23

Table 2.1 Agencies Responsible for Planning of the Energy Sector

Table 2.2 Agencies Involved in Development and Management of the Energy

ABPL Asphaltic Bitumen Plant

ACRE Area Coverage Rural Electrification

ADB Asian Development Bank

ADP Annual Development Programme

BAEC Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission

BAPEX Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration Co. Ltd.

BAU Business As Usual Option

BBM Bangladesh Bureau of Mines

BCF Billion (109) Cubic Feet

BCSIR Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research

BEPP Bangladesh Energy Planning Project

BGFCL Bangladesh Gas Fields Co. Ltd.

BGSL Bakhrabad Gas System Ltd.

BMEDC Bangladesh Mineral Exploration and Development Corporation

BMRE Balancing Modernisation Rehabilitation and Expansion

BOGC Bangladesh Oil and Gas Corporation (Short name Petrobangla)

BOGMC Bangladesh Oil, Gas and Mineral Corporation (Short name of

BPC Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation

BPDB Bangladesh Power Development Board

BPI Bangladesh Petroleum Institute

BUET Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology

CBM Coal Bed Methane

CNG Compressed Natural Gas

CUFL Chittagong Urea Fertilizer Factory, Chittagong

DOE Department of Environment

DOF Department of Forest

EA & CEI Electrical Advisor and Chief Electric Inspector

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

ELBP Eastern Lube Blending Plant

EMCC Energy Monitoring and Conservation Center

ERC Energy Regulatory Commission

ERL Eastern Refinery Ltd.

FBCCI Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries

GOB Government of Bangladesh

GSB Geological Survey of Bangladesh

GWh Giga (109) Watt Hour

HHS Hydrocarbon Habitat Compound

HOBC High Octane Blending Compound

HSD High Speed Diesel

IMED Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division

JBO Jute Batching Oil