Experts for finding alternate gas sources

Experts have advised finding alternate energy sources as a long-term solution to the ongoing gas shortage in the country.

In addition, they recommended stopping gas theft and opening up new onshore and offshore fields for exploration.

The experts made the suggestion at a webinar titled ‘Strategy for Optimum Utilisation of Natural Gas Resources in Bangladesh’ organised by the Bangladesh Energy Society on Saturday.

Ijaz Hossain a former professor at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) presented the keynote in the webinar.

He said gas reserves are running out, so we need to find alternative sources.

By lowering gas consumption, residents can have better access to electricity, which is also widely used for cooking in foreign countries, he added.

Meanwhile, he highlighted that LNG and LPG should be the future fuel for industries in Bangladesh.

Speaking at the programme, BUET Professor Md Tamim said, “Power is always given priority in the national budget, but energy is neglected, and the allocation is lower. However, the price of producing electricity will go up if there is no affordable fuel available.”

“Residents need access to gridline gas at the same price as LPG cylinders. Clients should be free to choose either,” added Tamim.

Nurul Islam, another former professor of BUET, said gas theft must be stopped. “Energy planning organizations are required to guarantee future energy security. There should also be a division for renewable energy.”

Among others, Abul Kalam Azad, former principal secretary to the prime minister, Mahbub Hossain, senior secretary of energy division, and Mahbubur Rahman, chairman of Bangladesh Power Development Board, spoke at the webinar.