Energy Adviser Dr. Fouzul Kabir Khan expressed frustration over bureaucratic challenges, likening his efforts to “fighting with my own shadow” during a seminar titled ‘Predictable Energy Pricing and Supply Stability’ organized by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) on Saturday.
Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Khan pointed out inefficiencies within the system, particularly referencing Petrobangla's request to the Planning Ministry to waive the mandatory feasibility study for drilling projects in onshore gas fields.
“This feasibility study, typically conducted by a third party, requires a year to gather necessary field data. While the intention is not to bypass this process, Petrobangla already possesses the required data, and it could be managed internally,” he argued, calling the provision a "time-buying tactic" that demands reevaluation.
Dr. Khan announced a significant policy shift, stating the government would phase out Independent Power Producer (IPP) plants with 100% government off-take guarantees.
“Instead, we’ll encourage private-sector merchant power plants to sell electricity directly to their own buyers. The government will provide only 10-20% guarantees for power purchases,” he said, adding that investors would be allowed access to transmission and distribution facilities for selling electricity.
Describing the IPP model as outdated, Dr. Khan emphasized the need for a modernized approach in line with global trends.
The adviser revealed that the government will float an open tender next week for the development of 40 private-sector solar power plants, with advertisements being published in phases.
“All doors will be open at the power and energy ministry. Businessmen will no longer need personal relationships or ministry visits to secure contracts—only competitive offers will determine outcomes,” he assured.
Dr. Khan also noted plans to renegotiate agreements with power plants currently selling solar electricity to the government at 17-18 cents per kilowatt hour, suggesting these rates were unviable.
Eminent energy expert Dr. M. Tamim supported greater reliance on solar energy, particularly for meeting daytime electricity demands. He emphasized the need for supply-demand management and suggested limiting market hours to optimize energy consumption.
Other speakers at the seminar included former BUET Professor Dr. Ijaz Ahmed, Dhaka University Professor Badrul Imam, BSRM’s Saumitra Kumar Mussuddi, and Bangladesh Solar and Renewable Energy Association President Nurul Aktar.
Dr. Khan reiterated his commitment to streamlining processes within the power and energy sector, ensuring efficiency and fairness while reducing reliance on outdated models and fostering renewable energy development.
(Source: UNB)
BD-Pratidin English/Mazdud
