Electricity in Bangladesh in 2025
As of 2025, Bangladesh's electricity consumption is predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, with more than 80% of the electricity derived from these sources. Of the fossil fuels, natural gas is the most significant contributor, accounting for almost half of the electricity production, followed by coal, which generates nearly a third. Net imports also play a notable role, almost matching coal's contribution to the electricity mix. On the clean energy front, the picture is quite different, with low-carbon sources making up only a small fraction of the total. Solar energy contributes a little over 1%, while the overall low-carbon share is just above 2%. This highlights a significant opportunity for Bangladesh to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Bangladesh?
Looking at electricity consumption trends, it appears that Bangladesh is experiencing a slight decline in per capita consumption. The latest figures show an average consumption of 605 kWh per person, which is a decrease from the previous record of 649 kWh per person in 2022. This drop of 44 kWh/person marks a step back in electricity growth, which is concerning given the increasing demand for electrification and the aspiration to boost living standards. On a more positive note, there is a small yet encouraging uptick in low-carbon electricity, with per capita low-carbon generation rising from 12 kWh in 2024 to 13 kWh in 2025. This increase, although modest, signifies progress in the right direction toward a more sustainable power supply.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Bangladesh could learn from the successes of regions like North Macedonia and Germany, both of which have significantly increased their reliance on solar power with shares of around 49% and 19%, respectively. Additionally, Bangladesh can explore the potential of nuclear energy by taking inspiration from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power constitutes more than half of their electricity generation. By investing in these technologies, Bangladesh could reduce its heavy reliance on fossil fuels, curb pollution, and cater to growing electricity demands sustainably. Government initiatives, combined with international cooperation and investment in nuclear and solar projects, can pave the way for a greener and more resilient energy future for the country.
History
In reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Bangladesh, hydroelectric power has seen a series of fluctuations since the early 1980s, with several periods of increase and decline. Notable is the initial growth in the early 1980s and subsequent periods of decline, notably in 1995 and 2009, with sharp reductions in hydropower output. More recently, since 2022, solar energy has emerged as a new contributor, increasing its share gradually each year, including a positive change in 2025. Overall, the development has been inconsistent, but the recent growth in solar power presents an opportunity for a more stable and sustainable expansion of Bangladesh's low-carbon electricity sector. By focusing strategically on developing reliable low-carbon sources, particularly solar and nuclear, Bangladesh can enhance its energy independence and environmental sustainability while meeting future electricity needs.
