Written by The Banking Post
Bangladesh must reduce its heavy reliance on imported fuel and accelerate investment in renewable energy to ensure long-term energy security, experts said at a roundtable in Dhaka.
The discussion, held at the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific and organised by Change Initiative, highlighted growing risks from global energy volatility.
A study presented at the event found that more than 60 per cent of the country’s energy supply depends on imports, exposing the economy to price shocks and putting pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
It suggested that shifting investment away from liquefied natural gas (LNG) toward renewable sources could yield substantial long-term benefits. “For every $1 redirected, the system could generate up to $17 in long-term gains,” the study noted.
The report also proposed a “zero-arable land” strategy—focusing on non-agricultural land use for energy projects—along with a $32.82 billion investment plan to strengthen energy independence.
Speakers stressed that diversifying the energy mix is now critical, especially amid global uncertainties affecting fuel supply and prices.
They also called for stronger policy support and coordinated efforts to accelerate the transition, warning that continued dependence on imported energy could deepen economic vulnerabilities in the years ahead.
