(BSS) - Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has asked the organizations concerned to make a working paper to make the country’s electricity transmission and distribution systems safer, smarter, and more modern as part of preparations for entering the era of nuclear power.

He issued the directive at a review meeting with the chairmen and managing directors (MDs) of transmission and distribution-related organizations and companies under the Power Division in the ministry’s conference room here today.

The meeting discussed the country’s existing electricity transmission and distribution capacity, current weaknesses, smart grid systems, and the potential challenges and preparedness required for the introduction of nuclear power generation and management.

The minister said that potential challenges associated with entering the nuclear power era must be identified and addressed through prompt preparations.

He also emphasized the importance of establishing a National Research Center to ensure a safe and modern electricity system.

He noted that nuclear power is a highly technology-driven sector, and therefore all necessary preparations must be completed before power generation begins.
To this end, he said that the Power Grid Bangladesh PLC has been instructed to conduct the necessary studies and prepare a concept paper, he said.
The minister added that the concept paper will be evaluated by international consultants with experience in nuclear power.

Based on their recommendations, the country’s transmission and distribution systems will be upgraded and modernized before nuclear power generation starts, he said.

Iqbal said Bangladesh has moved from gas-based electricity generation toward a diversified energy mix. Alongside coal and solar power, the country is now advancing toward nuclear energy, he said, adding that effective coordination between transmission and distribution systems is therefore essential.

He further stated that in the past, adequate coordination was not established among different levels of the power sector.

As a result, there is a risk of system failures if timely measures are not taken, he said. To avoid such situations, initiatives have been undertaken to build the necessary preparedness and modern smart infrastructure, he added.

During the meeting, the minister instructed Power Grid Bangladesh PLC chief engineer and relevant officials to present a detailed concept and working paper on smart grid systems. The officials assured him that an action plan and proposals would be submitted promptly.

The minister also said that nuclear power is extremely important for the country’s energy security. However, because it is a highly technology-intensive and complex system, the highest level of caution and preparedness must be ensured, he said.
He stressed that public safety remains the top priority.

He informed the meeting that unnecessary projects in the power sector have already been identified. Investigations will be conducted to determine responsibility and accountability, and appropriate action will be taken against those involved, he said.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the minister urged all stakeholders to work with patriotism and professionalism for the development of the power sector.

Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) Chairman Engineer Md. Rezaul Karim and Power Grid Bangladesh PLC chief engineer (system operation) Md. Monzurul Islam briefed the minister on the current capacity, challenges, and progress of development activities in the power sector.

Power Division Secretary Mirana Mahrukh was also present at the meeting.