Uninterrupted gas supply by 2026: Nasrul

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid announced a commitment to ensuring uninterrupted gas supply to consumers by 2026.

This statement came during a discussion with reporters on Tuesday about the power and energy sector's advancements, potential, and obstacles.

Having achieved the milestone of 100 per cent electricity coverage, Hamid noted the government's focus is now on providing continuous power and gas supply by 2026. He highlighted that Bangladesh currently imports 20 per cent of its gas, utilising 80 per cent from domestic sources, with no immediate plans to increase imports.

The exploration of gas in deep sea areas could significantly bolster the energy division, Hamid mentioned. He acknowledged the existing challenges, particularly the ongoing gas shortage, attributing it to reliance on a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU). Hamid assured that the current gas crisis is temporary, partly due to reduced pressure during severe winters.

Plans are underway to operationalise the FSRU soon, which is expected to add 400 mmcf of gas to the system. Additionally, another FSRU is set for renovation, with an aim to maintain uninterrupted gas supply starting next March. The minister revealed plans to incorporate two more FSRUs around 2026 and 2027 to meet the anticipated gas demand of 6,000 MMCF in 2027.

Hamid expressed optimism about domestic gas exploration, noting that most drilled wells have discovered gas. He emphasized the Bhola to Barishal gas pipeline as a top priority, with activities commencing this year. Gas from Bhola, currently supplied in CNG form, is expected to increase and be fully operational by mid-March next year.

The Bibiyana gas field also holds promise, with the minister expressing confidence about significant gas findings there. The immediate goal is to drill around 46 wells by mid-2025, followed by an additional 100 wells. This exploration is projected to add 500 mmcf of gas from domestic sources between 2024 and 2025.

Hamid concluded with a hopeful note on the Bibiyana field, which potentially harbours about 1.6 tcf of gas, further enhancing the nation's energy security and self-reliance.