The Rampal Thermal Power Plant has quietly contributed to Bangladesh’s economy by contributing over 10.5 billion units of electricity to the national grid.
At present, the plant supplies 7 to 8 percent of the country’s total electricity to the grid.
According to project officials, the initiative generates electricity while contributing to the socio-economic development of the local population and the protection of the environment.
The 1,320-megawatt power plant, operated as a joint venture between Bangladesh and India, is implemented by Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) in collaboration with India’s state-owned NTPC Limited.
Commercial production from the plant’s first unit began in December 2022, and the second unit commenced commercial operations in March 2024. Both units are currently running at full capacity, supplying electricity to the national grid.
An analysis of the plant’s production data shows that in June this year, it achieved its highest monthly output of 676.73 million units.
On June 1, Unit-2 recorded its highest daily electricity generation rate at 100.3 percent. On June 15, Unit-1 recorded its highest daily generation rate at 100.46 percent. In April, Unit-1 achieved its highest monthly operational efficiency rate of 99.96 percent. In June, the overall plant recorded its highest monthly operational rate of 97.28 percent.
From April to June—Q4 of the fiscal year—the maximum station declared capacity (DC) stood at 92.2 percent. The station DC for the fiscal year was finalised on April 12.
According to economists, the Rampal Power Plant is driving industrial development and supporting the broader economy by consistently supplying electricity to the national grid. In addition to contributing significantly to the national grid, it invigorates the local economy. The plant is reportedly generating employment for local youth and implementing community development programmes for women and underprivileged groups.
Project Director Ramanath Pujari of the Rampal Power Plant told Banglanews, “So far, more than 10,359 billion units of electricity have been supplied to the national grid from this power plant. Each month, the plant contributes approximately 7 to 8 percent of the country’s total electricity production. Over the past three months, uninterrupted coal supply has allowed us to maintain desired levels of electricity generation. We are currently able to meet the demand allocated to us. From one 660-megawatt unit, the daytime demand ranges between 400 and 500 megawatts, while between 7 pm and 3 am, it rises to 600 to 660 megawatts. On June 1 and 15, both units achieved 100 percent of their respective capacities.”
When asked, Dr Ijaz Hossain, Professor at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and an expert on energy and sustainable development, told Banglanews, “Rampal Power Plant is certainly contributing to the economy. Our coal-based power plants are becoming increasingly important. Domestic gas reserves and production are declining steadily, while we are also unable to increase LNG (liquefied natural gas) imports. In this situation, there is no room to consider expanding gas-based power production. Therefore, coal-based plants are crucial. Given the overall scenario, all coal-based power plants in the country are very important and are playing a role in national development.”
Uninterrupted coal supply to the power plant
Senior officials at the Rampal Power Plant said the plant’s coal supplier continued to provide uninterrupted delivery despite outstanding dues. This allowed the plant to maintain full-capacity production. They also confirmed that there is currently an adequate stock of coal.
Project Director Ramanath Pujari said that the plant has not needed to shut down due to fuel shortages. However, because of lower electricity demand during rainy periods, one unit is sometimes kept offline. A plan has been undertaken to increase coal storage capacity to mitigate future risks. The goal is to maintain a reserve of four to five lakh metric tonnes of coal at all times.
Solar power project inside the plant premises
Rampal Power Plant has initiated a 10-megawatt solar power project on the rooftops and vacant spaces of its various buildings. Electricity will be generated from solar panels installed on the rooftops of township buildings, labour colonies, jetties, and open areas. An in-house pre-feasibility study has already been completed, and a consultant is being recruited to conduct a detailed feasibility study. Project officials say that the solar electricity generated will reduce the plant’s internal consumption and surplus power can be supplied to the national grid.
Ramanath Pujari said, “The 10-megawatt solar power initiative within the Rampal Power Plant is in its preliminary stage. We hope it can begin production as a pilot project within a year. We will need permission from the Power Development Board for this. The generated electricity will be sent to the national grid. In the future, there are plans to expand solar power production by an additional 40 megawatts at the plant.”
