Bangladesh seeks energy funding and BRICS membership amid power production gaps

Bangladesh is facing significant gaps in electricity production relative to its installed capacity. Parliamentary figures reveal that gas-based power generation is producing between 4,000MW and 5,000MW despite a capacity of 12,022MW. Coal-based generation is producing 5,000MW to 6,000MW against a 6,927MW capacity, while liquid fuel plants are producing 2,500MW to 3,000MW against an installed capacity of 6,409MW.

To address energy needs and technological advancement, Bangladesh is seeking to join BRICS and is pursuing $3 billion for gas, power, and solar projects through the New Development Bank. Minister of Post, Telecommunications and Information Technology Faqir Mahbub Anam indicated that the country is looking toward BRICS and Russia for its technological future. Cooperation with Russia already includes training specialists for the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, with potential expansion into AI, healthcare, and satellite technology.

Additionally, the government is promoting renewable energy through rooftop solar incentives. Consumers who install solar systems by February 28, 2027, can receive Tk10.50 per unit for surplus electricity supplied to the national grid until February 2030.