A recent report presented at the Jatiya Press Club on November 9, 2024, highlights the staggering costs and potential health risks associated with Bangladesh's new liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. Authored by Market Forces, Waterkeepers Bangladesh, and DHORA, the report estimates that these LNG power projects and import terminals will require an investment of $50 billion [241ee249]. This significant financial commitment raises concerns about worsening air quality and exacerbating pollution, which could contribute to climate disasters [241ee249].
The report outlines plans for 41 new gas power plants, which experts warn will further deteriorate the country's environmental conditions [241ee249]. Notably, the report suggests that redirecting $36 billion towards renewable energy initiatives could enable the development of 62 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy capacity, presenting a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels [241ee249].
Involving foreign companies such as GE Vernova and JERA, these LNG projects are part of a broader energy master plan developed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ) [241ee249]. Experts have called for a shift towards renewable energy and greater accountability for projects that pose health and environmental risks, urging the government to reconsider its energy strategy in light of these findings [241ee249]. As Bangladesh navigates its energy future, the balance between economic investment and environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge.
