Bangladesh is experiencing a power supply deficit of around 2,000 megawatts (MW) after disruptions at three coal-fired power plants, forcing authorities to impose load shedding in parts of the country, officials said.
The shortfall has resulted in scheduled power cuts, particularly in rural areas, as electricity demand outpaces available generation capacity.
“We are working to restore normal supply as quickly as possible,” a power sector official said.
According to Bangladesh Power Development Board officials, one generating unit at the Norinco coal-fired power plant is expected to resume operations after a 12-day shutdown. Electricity generation at the Rampal coal-fired power plant was also disrupted on Wednesday, further worsening the supply situation.
Meanwhile, officials expressed optimism that a generating unit at the SS Power plant will return to service on Thursday, which could help ease pressure on the national grid.