JERA Meghnaghat Power Limited (JMPL) has officially commenced commercial operation of its gas-fired power plant after a successful second attempt, according to officials.
The plant had initially failed to complete its test run during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays. However, during a second attempt last week, the test was successfully completed, clearing the way for full commercial operation, officials confirmed.
Located in Meghnaghat, Narayanganj, the state-of-the-art combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plant has a gross capacity of 745 megawatts (MW) and a net output of 718 MW, said an official statement.
The plant is expected to supply up to 5 percent of the country’s peak electricity demand.
Electricity from the plant will be sold under a 22-year long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), providing a stable and reliable power supply to support the nation’s growing energy needs.
“As Bangladesh continues its journey toward becoming a developed country by 2041, access to reliable electricity will be essential to drive industrial growth and improve quality of life,” said Yasunori Katsumata, Chief Executive Officer of JMPL.
“This project, backed by a consortium of financial institutions including the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and the Asian Development Bank, delivers highly efficient and flexible power generation that can respond to the country’s evolving energy landscape,” Katsumata added.
Bangladesh’s electricity demand is projected to reach 51,000 MW by 2041. Large-scale power projects like this are seen as critical in meeting future demand while ensuring affordability, energy access, and environmental sustainability.
“The development of such modern infrastructure not only empowers local industries and supports employment but also reinforces Bangladesh’s long-term energy resilience,” Katsumata said. “We are committed to continuing our collaboration with government authorities and local partners to support a sustainable energy future.”