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JERA Meghnaghat Power Limited (JMPL) has begun commercial operation of one of the largest and most efficient gas-fired power plants in Bangladesh.
The company announced the development in a statement issued on Monday, marking a major milestone in its commitment to bolstering Bangladesh's energy security and driving economic growth.
This combined-cycle gas-turbine (CCGT) power plant at Meghnaghat in Narayanganj has a gross generation capacity of 745 megawatts (MW) and a net output of 718 MW.
The state-of-the-art power station is set to supply up to 5 per cent of Bangladesh's peak electricity demand.
Electricity generated from the plant will be sold to the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) under a long-term power purchase agreement spanning 22 years from the date of commercial operation.
As Bangladesh works to modernise its energy infrastructure and ensure affordable, reliable access to electricity, large-scale projects like JMPL's plant are viewed as vital long-term investments.
The country's electricity demand is projected to reach 51,000 MW by 2041, in line with its goal of achieving developed nation status.
"A reliable power supply is critical to sustaining a thriving economy and improving livelihoods across Bangladesh," the company said.
Yasunori Katsumata, Chief Executive Officer of JMPL, emphasised that the project is backed by a strong consortium of lenders including the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The plant, he noted, is engineered to deliver highly efficient and flexible generation capacity that will not only meet current energy needs but also adapt to future demand sustainably.
"By supporting the development of much-needed energy infrastructure in Bangladesh, we are empowering local industries and creating employment opportunities," said Katsumata. "We will continue to work closely with relevant authorities and our local partners to contribute to a more energy-secure Bangladesh."
With the successful start of commercial operations, JMPL says it remains committed to advancing Bangladesh's energy transition and fostering long-term partnerships to deliver sustainable development outcomes.
Azizjst@yahoo.com