Bringing Bhola Gas Into National Grid

The post-COVID-19 period has seen a growing natural gas supply deficit in Bangladesh, with a 1,000 MMCFD shortfall. Despite repeated government promises, local production remains inadequate, and demand continues to rise, leading to gas rationing. LNG supply expansion by 2027 is uncertain, and domestic fields are unlikely to meet demand unless aggressive exploration campaigns are conducted. The Bhola Island holds potential reserves of 2.047 Tcf but remains underutilized due to a lack of national grid connection.

- Mollah Amzad Hossain

The primary fuel supply deficit steadily increased with time in the post-COVID-19 period. Particularly, the natural gas supply deficit widened over the past two years. It is not unknown that the situation has not changed much though the past government repeatedly assured people of addressing it. Pledges were made to increase local production to 2,3002,400 MMCFD with new supply. But that pledge could not be realized. Production from the local gas fields has depleted to 2,000 MMCFD. Chevron-operated Bibiyana gas field alone is supplying 1,000 MMCFD. Production from this field is on the verge of depletion. Sudden major depletion may happen at any time. The total supply may remain limited to 3000-3050 MMCFD with 1,100 MMCFD of RLNG. The official estimate states a 1,000 MMCFD supply deficit. The deficit will increase with the depletion of production. On the other hand, demand keeps on increasing with time. Gas supply is being rationed for power and fertilizer. Industries are not getting the required gas supply per demand.