Energy conservation key to end load-shedding: Minister
During peak summer periods, however, power supply may be disrupted due to shortages of primary fuel, limitations in transmission and distribution infrastructure, maintenance work, as well as storms and rainfall, he said.
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has outlined a series of energy-saving measures – including limiting excessive lighting, switching off appliances after use, maintaining air conditioner temperatures at 25 degrees Celsius or above, and restricting high-energy equipment during peak hours – as part of the government's plan to curb load-shedding.
Responding to a question from Dhaka-18 Member SM Jahangir Hossain at the seventh sitting of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad today (2 April), he said there is currently no overall shortfall in electricity generation in line with demand.
During peak summer periods, however, power supply may be disrupted due to shortages of primary fuel, limitations in transmission and distribution infrastructure, maintenance work, as well as storms and rainfall, he said.
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He also informed that the country's total power generation capacity is now 32,332 megawatts (MW), of which grid-based power generation capacity stands at 28,919 MW. He added that on an average 14,500 to 15,000 MW of electricity is being generated daily as of March 2026, depending on demand.
The minister noted that with electricity demand steadily rising, the Power Division has undertaken a series of initiatives to meet growing consumption and reduce load-shedding.
Key among these is the formulation and implementation of short-, medium- and long-term plans for power generation, alongside the construction and upgrading of transmission and distribution infrastructure in line with generation capacity.
The government is also prioritising fuel diversification and placing increased emphasis on renewable energy-based power generation, the minister said.
Alongside supply-side measures, the government is placing strong emphasis on demand-side management to promote energy conservation.
To strengthen energy efficiency, the Power Division has undertaken energy audit programmes at designated consumer facilities. In the first phase, audits are underway at 74 such facilities in Mymensingh, Ghorashal and Narayanganj.
The government has also developed a pool of 42 certified energy auditors and 178 certified energy managers to enhance energy efficiency in industrial and commercial establishments, with efforts ongoing to expand this capacity.
The state minister further said integrated guidelines have been formulated to ensure efficient use of electricity and energy in government office buildings.
To raise public awareness, the government has carried out extensive campaigns, including leaflet distribution, television broadcasts and the placement of stickers at key locations, he added.
Awareness initiatives have also been widely promoted through newspapers. Two television commercials have also been aired to promote these practices.
Awareness campaigns have been conducted in mosques, households, shops and government offices, urging people to maintain air conditioner temperatures at or above 25 degrees Celsius. Monthly public hearings are also being used to promote the avoidance of high-energy appliances – such as water pumps, ovens, heaters, irons, washing machines and welding equipment – during peak hours.
Regular vigilance drives are being conducted to discourage excessive lighting in markets and shopping centres during peak periods. Consumers are also being encouraged to refrain from using heavy electrical equipment at such times.
Auto-charging stations are being advised to avoid charging during peak hours, while regular night-time drives are being carried out to curb illegal electricity use.
