In Sylhet city, frequent power outages are affecting the daily lives of its residents and the local economy. The city has experienced severe load shedding in recent days, impacting traders and disrupting the water supply managed by the city corporation. Experts attribute the problem to a significant shortfall in power supply. The Sylhet region faces a gap, with demand ranging from 140-160 MW against a supply deficit of 40-60 MW. Shielding capital Dhaka from loadshedding masks reality of power cuts biting nation The Sylhet Power Development Board's records reveal stark disparities: on April 2, demand hit 141 MW against a mere supply of 56 MW; April 3 saw demand at 120-130 MW with only 66 MW supplied; and on April 4, the supply was just 69 MW against a demand of 135 MW. As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, traders, in anticipation of the festive rush, have decorated their establishments, only to rely on generators amidst the frequent outages. The disruptions have also inconvenienced residents during crucial times like Sehri and Iftar. Zakir Ahmed, a local trader from Golapganj, voiced the community's distress, stating, “General people and businesses are the worst sufferers, and we fear the power cut problems will only worsen with the summer heat.” Echoing the sentiment, Airin Sultana Nipa, a housewife from Lala Dighirpar, shared her struggles, “The power goes out before dawn, causing water shortages at critical moments like Iftar and Sehri. It's disheartening to face such challenges.” Days of sweltering heat, power cuts in northern India overwhelm hospitals as death toll climbs Jarjisur Rahman Rony, an assistant engineer at the Sylhet Power Development Board, shed light on the dilemma, “We're distributing what little electricity we have. The issue isn't with the infrastructure but stems from broader economic challenges affecting power generation, such as the dollar and coal crisis, forcing us into load shedding.”

Transmission from Adani’s Gadda Power Plant, in the Indian state of Jharkhand, to Bangladesh's national grid resumed at 3:43 am (early hour) on Thursday (June 8, 2023). According to official sources, the transmission line from Godda power plant tripped at 2:46 pm on Wednesday (June 7, 2023), worsening the already severe load shedding situation across the country. According to officials of the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB), the operation of the Godda power plant was first resumed at 11 pm on Wednesday night through sending auxiliary power from Bangladesh, and then after a series of technical checks in the system, power transmission to Bangladesh's national grid resumed. Read more: Adani's Godda plant commissioned with issues over coal tariff unresolved “Power supply from Adani's (Godda) plant became normal at 3:43 am on Thursday,” Badruddoza Sumon, spokesman of PGCB, told UNB. India's Adani Group set up the 1,600 MW capacity coal-fired power plant at Godda to exclusively supply electricity to Bangladesh. Its 800 MW unit started commercial operation in March while the second unit is now on test run -- generating 50-100 MW every day.   Read more: Adani Power starts commercial electricity supply to Bangladesh keeping tariff issue unsettled Meanwhile, officials of Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) said that excessive load shedding across the country continues with lower power supply. The official data from National Load Dispatch Centre shows that the country experienced a load shedding of 2961 MW at 1 am, 2976 MW at 2 am, 2939 MW at 3 am, 2819 MW at 4 pm, 2606 MW at 5 am, and 2463 MW at 6 am when power supply was between 11,700 MW and 11,300 MW against demand between 14,800 MW and 13,900 MW. Read more: Test transmission of power supply from Adani plant to Bangladesh's national grid starts BPDB officials said there is a projection that the country’s highest demand will be 15,200 while the highest generation will be 12,200, leaving a shortage of nearly 3000 MW. It is a widespread allegation that people in rural areas have to experience much more frequent power cuts than in urban areas, especially in the capital Dhaka and other major cities. People living in some rural areas say they experience load shedding for over 12 hours a day. Read more: The Tk 700 crore per month hole in the deal with Adani Power

Severe load shedding continued across the country amid the sweltering heat. As a result of power generation between 12,000 MW and 13,000 MW against the demand of nearly 16,000 MW, the people in capital Dhaka and elsewhere have been experiencing frequent power cuts that makes their lives unbearable in this peak summer when temperatures are soaring to 38-42 degree Celsius. Also Read: Coal shortage forces Payra Power Plant to shut down operation In the daytime power cuts already crossed 2,600 MW and it is apprehended that the outage may go up to 3,500 MW in the evening peak. It is alleged that power supply situation is worse in the rural areas as they get electricity for 3-5 hours a day while the rest of the time they have to remain without electricity.   Also Read: Load shedding increases again with fall in power generation  Interestingly, the official data of the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) shows that the extent of load shedding reaches the highest peak at midnights when people remain in deep sleep.     The data also shows the country experienced 2610 MW while the demand for electricity was 14,900 MW and the generation output was 12,166 MW at 12 noon on Tuesday. The power generation forecast at the evening peak was projected to be 14,900 MW against a projected demand of 15,800 MW when load shedding was planned for only 900 MW. “But the reality is totally different”, said a top official at  state-owned Bangladesh Power Development Board. At the evening peak the extent of load shedding reaches 2700 MW to 3500 MW, he noted, saying the official data always does not reflect the ground reality. Also Read: Power supply situation will improve in two weeks: Nasrul Hamid However, the official data of PGCB, responsible for power transmission across the country, shows that the load shedding was 2815 MW at 4 pm, 2735 at 6 pm on Monday, 3266 MW at 1 am Tuesday. The load shedding was 3215 MW at 1 am (midnight) and 3143 MW at 2 pm (midnight) on Tuesday.  Also Read: Frequent power cuts amid heat wave multiplies people’s woes   This means the extent of highest load shedding  at midnight is a new phenomenon as though the country’s demand decreases at midnight, the power generation also decreases to a level of 11,000 MW.   Normally, no load shedding was seen in the midnights in the previous years. This year, load shedding at midnights has become regular. No official from the BPDB was found to be willing to comment on the issue.       

In Bangladesh, where frequent power outages or load shedding are common, having a reliable backup power solution is crucial. This is where an IPS (Instant Power Supply) or Home UPS comes into play. An IPS provides uninterrupted power to essential appliances and devices during power cuts, ensuring that crucial tasks can be carried out without interruption.  Whether it's running important medical equipment, operating computers, or simply keeping the lights on, an IPS is a necessity for households, offices, and businesses alike. Let’s explore the different types of IPS systems available in Bangladesh under various price ranges. Things to Consider When Buying an IPS or Home UPS When rushing to buy, customers often fall prey to the persuasive tactics employed by sellers, leading them to make ill-informed choices. To avoid such pitfalls, here are a few crucial factors to consider when purchasing an IPS/UPS system. Terms and Works It's important to understand the distinction between IPS and UPS. While both supply power during a mains power failure, UPS seamlessly switches the connection without any noticeable power drop, whereas IPS requires a minimum of one second or more to switch. Nowadays, most IPS systems come equipped with UPS functionality, allowing them to function interchangeably. Read more: Top Charger Fans in Bangladesh in 2023 Types When it comes to UPS systems, there are two types to choose from: online and offline. Offline UPS systems are more affordable but are better suited for short power outages. On the other hand, online UPS systems tend to be more stable and reliable, and the higher the price, the better the quality you can expect. Power Coverage Before making a purchase, it's crucial to calculate the power requirements of your devices and the number of connected devices. The IPS/UPS system may not perform optimally if the demand exceeds the supply. You can determine the wattage of each device by checking the information stamped on the appliance itself. Warranty Warranty is vital, as the lifespan of an IPS/UPS system is typically determined by the battery's longevity. Batteries usually last around two to three years, so it's important to check the warranty coverage provided. Read more: Home Theater Buyer's Guide with Price Ranges in Bangladesh Price Price is undoubtedly a significant factor while choosing an IPS/UPS system. As a result, prospective buyers must exercise caution and consider their options carefully, as it represents a significant investment. Selecting the right IPS/UPS system depends on identifying and aligning the essential features with your specific needs and budget. A clear understanding of what one is looking for will simplify one’s decision-making. Features and Prices of Some Popular IPS/Home UPS Models Available in Bangladesh Best IPS Under BDT 15,000 Luminous IPS Eco Watt Neo 1050 12V The Luminous Eco Volt Neo 1050 IPS with a 200 AH battery is a product from the Luminous brand. It offers a sine wave inverter type with a capacity of 900 VA and a rated power of 756 W. This IPS supports a single battery and has a maximum charging current of 17A. The dimensions of the device are 27.5x26.2x12.0 cm. It comes with a 2-year warranty. Read more: Inverter AC Prices in Bangladesh in 2023 The specially designed 200 AH lead-acid rechargeable battery ensures high energy density and heavy-duty performance. This IPS is ideal for 1000VA IPS/UPS standard use. The price of this product is BDT 11,999. Rahimafrooz Power Pack 900VA The Rahimafrooz Power Pack 900VA IPS is a versatile and efficient power solution. It functions as both a UPS and an IPS, offering dual-mode functionality. A pure sine wave output ensures a smooth and stable power supply. The inverter capacity is 900VA, with a rated power of 725 watts, allowing it to handle various electrical loads. It includes a battery with a capacity of up to 200Ah, providing ample backup power. The IPS features overloading, overcharging, and short-circuit protection for enhanced safety. It can support 9 LED energy lights, 4 ceiling fans, 1 LED or LCD television, and 3 mobile chargers. The price of the Rahimafrooz Power Pack 900VA IPS in Bangladesh is BDT 13,000. Read more: Air Cooler price in Bangladesh with Buying Tips Smarten IPS-700VA This reliable and powerful system, manufactured in India, is considered one of the best IPS in Bangladesh. With a capacity of 500 Watts, it can easily support up to 6 or 7 lights and 3 fans, ensuring a comfortable and well-lit environment during power cuts. The user-friendly design and efficient performance make it accessible to users of all technical backgrounds. With a recommended 12-volt battery, you can enjoy uninterrupted power for extended periods. The Smarten brand is reputable and trusted in the electronics industry, known for delivering high-quality products that exceed customer expectations. The Smarten IPS system is an excellent investment for your home or office, offering impressive features and reliable performance. It comes with a 2-year warranty, and the price is BDT 14,000. Read more: Dhaka alone experiencing over 600 MW of load shedding during daytime

Dhaka has alone been experiencing more than 600 MW of load shedding during daytime when demand for electricity remains relatively low than nighttime. According to official sources, like the previous few days the country has been seeing over 2000 MW of power shortage.   As a result, consumers across the country are facing power outages for 6 to 7 hours in different spells during the day. Also Read: After record, country’s power generation again drops below 15,000 MW “After the evening, the situation will be deteriorating with the increase in demand,” said a top official of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) preferring anonymity. He attributed the gas shortage for the severe situation in power supply. “Actually, we have been getting lower supply of gas that forced us to keep at least 25 generation units across the country shut,” he said. Also Read: Load shedding in Sylhet: PDB engineer receives threat; GD filed He, however, said that if the BPDB receives normal supply of gas, it can produce 6,500 MW of electricity from its gas-fired plants. “But now we’re producing 4667 MW and about 1,833 MW of electricity is not available for gas shortage,” he noted. Meanwhile, managing director Dhaka Electric Supply Company (Desco) Md. Kausar Ameer Ali said that the area under the organization was experiencing a load shedding of 308 MW in the daytime. Read more:  Gap between power generation, supply widening: Nationwide load shedding over 1500 MW “The Desco is receiving about 800 MW against a demand of 1111 MW,” he told UNB. Desco is entrusted with the responsibility to distribute electricity in Dhaka city’s north, north-west and eastern parts while Dhaka Power Distribution Company (DPDC) is responsible for power supply in the south, southeast and central part of Dhaka city.    DPDC Managing director Bikash Dewan said that  area under DPDC has been experiencing a shortage of about 340 MW which might be up after the evening. Also Read:Load shedding in Sylhet: PDB engineer receives threat; GD filed He said DPDC has been resorting to load shedding of more than 340 MW to manage a demand of more than 1600 MW as it has been receiving 1250 MW.      However, consumers are complaining that they have to experience a huge load shedding. In some areas, people are allegedly experiencing power outages just in every alternative hour. Also Read: Load shedding amid intense heat wave makes life miserable in Khulna “Power cuts are frequent and we have been experiencing load shedding in every alternative hour,”  said Abdus Selim, a resident in the city’s Niketan area. The same experience was shared by Nazim Uddin who lives in Moghbazar area. State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid on Sunday said that it will take two days to improve the power and gas supply situation in the country. Also Read: Loadshedding becomes insufferable: Locals vandalise Palli Bidyut office in Feni He said that after the suspension of gas supply from two floating LNG terminals, one terminal left its place for safe location while another one remained stationed at its own location. The suspension caused a huge shortage in gas supply that triggered the current level of load shedding across the country. “The current disruption in power and gas supply will improve as one of the two LNG terminals will resume supply within two days,” he told reporters at his office in the ministry. Also Read: Record heat driving record power generation, even as loadshedding increases “But I hope, gas supply will resume from one terminal within two days which will improve the situation with the supply of 400 mmcfd gas,” he said, adding that it will take 10-12 days to resume gas supply from the other LNG terminal.

After about 5 hours of partial grid line failure, power supply was restored in west Dhaka, including Mohammadpur, Dhanmondi and Mirpur areas. “From our end, power transmission was restored at the 230 kV grid line at 10:38 am. But it takes some time to fully restore electricity supply to distribution line,” Badruddoza Sumon, public relation officer of Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB), told UNB. “We hope, gradually power supply will be restored in all areas,” he added. Shahnaz Begum, who lives on Babar Road in Mohammadpur, said that her home was without electricity as of 11 am. Also Read: Aminbazar-Agargaon grid line failure: No electricity in Mohammadpur, Mirpur areas The 230 kV grid line from Aminbazar-Agargaon failed at 5:50 am today (February 21, 2023) — leading to no electricity in the western part of Dhaka city, including the entire Mohammadpur and Mirpur areas. Officials from both PGCB and Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited  (DPDC) confirmed the development. “The grid transmission line tripped at 5:50 am,” PGCB official Sumon earlier said. Further explaining, he said due to dense fog, sometimes grid lines can break down. Read More: Committee to review existing deals on coal purchase for power generation This is not a technical fault of the system, he added. Aminbazar-Mohammadpur grid line is one of the main sources supplying electricity to some of Dhaka city’s important establishments, including the Prime Minister’s official residence and Dhaka cantonment. Power supply continued through alternative sources to those important establishments although regular consumers are without electricity.  Read More: TIB for reviewing Dhaka's power purchase deal with Adani Group

Many areas in Dhaka and Narayanganj cities plunged into darkness following a huge disruption in power supply that authorities blamed on the approaching Cyclone Sitrang.   According to officials of the Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited (DPDC) and Desco, the two entities which control the distribution network in Dhaka and Narayanganj, following a fault in Sympur, Ulan and Maniknagar grid line, many areas experienced blackouts for hours.   “Due to the grid-disruption, power supply went off in Dhanmondi, Sher-e-Banglanagar, Kakrail, and Kajla in Dhaka city and also some areas in Narayanganj city," Bikash Dewan, managing director of DPDC, told UNB.   Read Cyclone Sitrang weakens into depression   He said many areas also experienced blackouts due to the collapse of trees on the power distribution lines due to cyclone Sitrang.   Some 32 teams of DPDC have been working to restore supply in the disrupted areas, he added.   He also said that power supply came down to 700 MW from 1,400 MW following the disruption in some grid lines in DPDC areas.   As a result, consumers have been experiencing loadshedding despite relatively cool weather, he said.    Read Cyclone Sitrang: Educational institutions in 3 divisions declared closed   Desco managing director Kausar Ameer Ali noted that power supply was disrupted in Uttara, Gulshan and Mirpur areas.   “Mainly falling of trees and flying construction materials and other objects over the distribution lines led to the disruption in Desco areas,” he noted.   A good number of Desco teams are working to fix the problems and restore power supply, he added, saying consumers in his area have been experiencing loadshedding since evening due to lower supply against the demand.   Read 110 evacuated from isolated char in Bhola ahead of Sitrang landfall

After two weeks of remaining out of order, the 210 MW capacity unit-5 of Ghorashal Power Station has resumed operation. “Unit-5 of Ghorashal Power Station is in operation since yesterday and is now generating 170 MW electricity, against its installed capacity of 210 MW,” Shamim Hasan, public relations director of Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), told UNB. Ghorashal Power Station’s unit-5 went off along with other units following the National Power Grid failure on October 4, 2022. Read: Power supply in Dhaka: Until Ghorashal working in full capacity, situation won’t improve Except unit-5, almost all other units of the power station resumed operation the same day. As a result, Dhaka city and adjoining areas were getting relatively less power supply from Ghorashal. The power station plays a major role in electricity supplied to Dhaka. Due to a major technical fault, officials failed to resume power generation from unit-5 of Ghorashal. After repair, BPDB engineers managed to resume the unit’s operation at the plant yesterday (October 19, 2022). Read: PGCB names 2 suspended officials for power grid failure Power generation resumption from unit-5 will help improve the electricity supply situation in Dhaka and surrounding areas, said another BPDB official. Dhaka city and adjoining areas are still experiencing frequent load shedding due to a huge gap between power supply and demand. BPDB data shows the country’s power generation varies between 11,000 MW and 12,000 MW, following the national power grid failure on October 4, 2022 – against a demand for about 14,000 MW. Read Theft in power sector behind grid failure: Fakhrul

Demand for candles has skyrocketed with the recent endemic load shedding in Dhaka as well as across the country. Frequent load shedding, which is causing public suffering, has, however, revived candle factories – putting smiles on the faces of those involved with this business. Haji Monir, the owner of a candle factory in Dhaka’s Kamrangirchar, said that they usually get more orders for candles during religious events and festivals. However, due to the rise in both frequency and duration of load shedding over the past few months, demand for candles has increased significantly. “There were ten candle factories in this area, but only my factory is in production now,” he added. Due to the price hike of raw materials, price of candles has almost doubled. Read No hope of improvement before Nov, Nasrul Hamid says

Prime Minister’s Energy Advisor Dr Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury has said there is no immediate solution to the existing load shedding as the government has reduced import of primary fuel to conserve foreign currency reserve. “We have to cut fuel import considering the future situation as part of the plan to conserve foreign currencies,” he told reporters on Sunday on the sideline of a seminar on the country’s development. Reinterring his call to people to be more patient and try to check any misuse of power in their consumptions, he said developed nations like Britain and Germany are now experiencing 4-5 hours of load shedding. The energy advisor said that the government had thought that Russia-Ukraine war would stop but it has not happened. Read: Load shedding: No hope of improvement before Nov, Nasrul Hamid says He said there was a plan to import 1600 MW of power from India’s Adani Group and also get 1000 MW from Rampal power plant. But transmission lines for these two projects are not ready and it will take 3-4 months more to get electricity from those. “As a result, it is unlikely to improve power supply situation very soon,” he said. He, however, said the government is trying to bring some natural gas from Bhola district and raise 1000 MW of power generation from solar energy. There is also a plan to replace some existing diesel-run irrigation pumps with solar-run irrigation system, he added.