IEEFA has published a report called ‘Navigating Bangladesh’s energy trilemma’ that highlights practical steps to keep power reliable, affordable and cleaner while reducing costly fuel imports, and the note offers a clear, action-focused view for policymakers, utilities and industry. The analysis explains that Bangladesh has made large gains in electricity access yet now faces a three-way challenge of energy security, equity and environmental goals, meaning the country must balance steady supply with fair prices and cleaner power. The report finds heavy reliance on imported LNG and costly oil-fired peaking plants is pushing up bills and eating public funds, and it notes very large import bills that narrow fiscal space. IEEFA recommends boosting energy efficiency, cutting technical and commercial losses, and using local gas where sensible to limit expensive imports. The brief also urges stepped-up renewable power, wider rooftop solar for factories, and clearer rules for corporate power purchase agreements so industry can buy green power and keep export markets. It points out gaps in enforcement of efficiency rules, weak monitoring, and the need for more investment in transmission, storage and smart grids so variable renewables can be used without disruption. Practical moves include switching some gas boilers to electric boilers, improving captive power efficiency, and tightening gas network losses to cut overall fuel needs. The report stresses that staged pilots, careful procurement and strong monitoring can reduce the risk of sudden price shocks and avoid heavy subsidies that push tariffs up. It argues for more funding for local gas exploration and clearer tools to compare the real costs of imports with domestic supplies before expanding import infrastructure. The note also highlights financing paths such as green loans, rooftop incentives and public-private corporate deals that can lower costs and emissions while helping factories meet buyer demands. The paper recommends training for engineers, better meters and billing so customers can see and save energy, and pilot projects to test storage and grid upgrades. It also highlights quick wins that need modest spending: a national drive for rooftop solar on factories and public buildings, incentives to replace old motors and pumps, and simple rules to cut theft and technical loss. Small, visible steps can build trust, create green jobs in installation, lower bills and help scale renewable projects, creating jobs for local installers. The report offers practical, low-risk ideas that, if followed with clear targets and close cooperation among government, utilities, industry and banks, can help Bangladesh secure affordable, reliable and cleaner energy while protecting consumers and the budget.
