Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan on Monday (Feb 17) requested government and private offices, mosques, and households to set air conditioner (AC) temperatures at 25 degrees Celsius.

Fouzul Kabir made this request to tackle any possible crisis during upcoming Ramadan and summer.

He also warned, saying that a special monitoring team will ensure compliance. "If our request is ignored, legal action may be taken, including power disconnection.”

Speaking to reporters on Monday (February 17) after the second day of the Deputy Commissioners' (DC) Conference at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka, the adviser said the government has taken all necessary preparations to ensure a steady power supply.

The adviser assured there will be no shortage of electricity during the upcoming Ramadan and summer. 

"During winter, our electricity demand is around 9,000 MW, but in summer, it rises to 17,000-18,000 MW. This 8,000-9,000 MW gap is caused mainly by irrigation and cooling loads. Irrigation alone requires an extra 2,000 MW, which is a top priority to maintain food production," he said.

He said the need to control cooling loads. "AC usage accounts for 5,000-6,000 MW. Setting the thermostat at 25 degrees Celsius can save 2,000-3,000 MW. 

The adviser said the government will request mosque authorities, through the religious affairs ministry, to keep ACs at 25 degrees or higher. Offices, including the Secretariat, will also be urged to follow the same rule.

BDST: 1937 HRS, FEB 17, 2025
MSK