Persistent tensions in the Middle East, disruptions in crucial shipping routes, and fluctuations in fuel availability and costs are once again underscoring the global importance of energy security. For Bangladesh, these challenges are increasingly evident as fuel shortages, power outages, and government-imposed conservation measures highlight deeper vulnerabilities in the energy system.
While many major economies like China also face energy-related issues, the difference lies in their preparedness and energy infrastructure. China’s energy challenges stem from scale and occasional supply disruptions due to various factors. However, China’s robust energy system, including strategic reserves, diverse import sources, and strong domestic production, enables it to manage crises effectively.
India, on the other hand, has bolstered its energy security through strategic reserves, diversified sourcing, and rapid expansion of renewable energy. Despite facing localized disruptions like LPG shortages during the Middle East crisis, India’s aligned energy planning with logistics development has proven successful. In contrast, Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imports has led to periodic emergency measures due to constraints in foreign exchange and limited domestic production.
With approximately 95% of fuel requirements imported, Bangladesh is highly susceptible to global disruptions impacting domestic energy supply. The country’s reactive measures, such as fuel rationing and adjusting operations, address immediate needs but fail to tackle underlying structural vulnerabilities.
A critical aspect often overlooked in Bangladesh’s energy security is logistics. The movement of energy through supply chains, predominantly reliant on maritime transport, plays a crucial role in ensuring a continuous energy supply. Inefficiencies in port operations and coordination can exacerbate supply delays during global disruptions, leading to shortages in the absence of strategic reserves.
Unlike China, Bangladesh lacks an integrated approach to energy security that incorporates logistics resilience. While investments have primarily focused on power generation, enhancing supply chain resilience is imperative, especially during crises.
Furthermore, rising fuel import costs strain foreign exchange reserves, heightening sensitivity to price fluctuations and disruptions. To address these challenges, Bangladesh should adopt a system-level approach to energy security by strengthening port infrastructure, diversifying supply routes, developing strategic reserves, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.
One feasible strategy involves utilizing industrial and logistics infrastructure for rooftop solar power generation, offering a practical solution to reduce import dependency and enhance energy resilience. Introducing incentives for solar investments and improving institutional coordination across energy, ports, and logistics sectors are essential steps towards a more integrated and resilient energy system in Bangladesh.
In conclusion, learning from global practices, Bangladesh can enhance its energy security by aligning infrastructure, logistics, finance, and policy within a unified framework. By addressing these gaps proactively, the country can better prepare for future disruptions and ensure a more sustainable energy future.
(Ahamedul Karim Chowdhury, adjunct faculty at Bangladesh Maritime University, is a maritime, logistics, and supply chain policy analyst.)
