Refreshing Energy Transition Strategy

Despite existing plans like the Energy and Power Master Plan 2023 IEPMP), renewable energy policy drafts, and the Mujib Climate Perspective Plan, questions arise about Bangladesh's need for a new energy transition roadmap. Experts express differing views: some suggest revising the IEPMP with real data, while others emphasize the urgency of a roadmap considering legal and investment issues. Another perspective suggests an energy strategy from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, aligning with national efforts for low-carbon development and netzero emissions.

- Mollah Amzad Hossain

A question arises as to why fresh policy or strategy papers should be formulated for developing the energy, power, and environment sectors and associated areas despite having existing plans. There is genuine logic behind this. After years of animated discussion, Bangladesh adopted a comprehensive integrated Energy and Power Master Plan 2023 (IEPMP) only last year. Besides, there is a draft renewable energy policy and an under-implementation Energy Efficiency and Conservation Roadmap. Mujib Climate Perspective Plan is also approved. There is also a low-carbon development strategy as a national policy. Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) is also there. Work was taken up to update the NDC as well. NDC embodies directives and guidelines for Energy Transition. There are guidelines for reducing and limiting carbon footprints in the power energy, and transport sectors. The IEPMP 2023 also has guidelines for achieving Net Zero. There are allegations that IEPMP 2023 is not based on reliable data and information and does not provide specific directives. All these raise genuine questions about whether Bangladesh needs to formulate an Energy Transition Road Map with expediency. Experts and analysts, however, have differing views and opinions. Many observe that Bangladesh should formulate an integrated plan for 2030 after reviewing real data-based dating of IEPMP 2023. Others believe that formulation and adoption of an energy transition road map is urgent now, considering all legal impediments to implementation, responsible assignments, source of investment, and appropriate fuel mix. Another school of thought is that an energy transition strategy may appear from the Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change to formulate a low-carbon development strategy. This will be reflected in the government initiative to update the NDC. Of course, there is a meeting in minds in that whatever may be the name given the focus is setting the target for achieving net zero emissio