Debt Liabilities Major Challenge Of Energy Sector

Bangladesh’s energy and power sector is on the verge of collapse due to mismanagement, poor governance, and misappropriation of money. Huge debt liabilities have created overburden.

- Dr. Shamsul Alam

In my opinion, the interim government in the shortest possible time must act on a priority basis to relieve the energy and power sector from huge debt liabilities to keep the wheels of the economy rolling. This must be managed utilizing the provisions of the annual budget. If necessary, some less important development projects may be shelved. Necessary changes must be brought into the power and energy supply chain management. On the other hand, essential incentives and subsidies should be provided for rooftop solar power generation to relieve the power grid from traditional fossil fuel-based power.

Prof. Dr. Shamsul Alam, Dean of Daffodil University and Energy Adviser of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB), said this in an exclusive interview with Mollah Amzad Hossain, Editor of Energy & Power. Following is the full text of his interview:

Bangladesh's crisis-impacted energy and power sector is now at the center of discussion. What can be done to get out of it?