The floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), or LNG terminal, operated by Excelerate Energy at Maheshkhali in Cox’s Bazar has resumed gas supply today following a three-day shutdown. According to Petrobangla Chairman Abdul Mannan, the FSRU resumed operations at around 2:00 pm today and is currently supplying around 100 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of gas to the national grid. With gas supplied from the country’s two LNG terminals, the total LNG-based supply has increased to around 686 mmcfd, while another nearly 300 mmcfd of gas may be added to the grid by the middle of tonight.
Background on the Shutdown and Restart
The Excelerate energy LNG terminal at Maheshkhali was shut down following a fire on July 21. Although the terminal later resumed LNG supply, operations were suspended again from August 19 as there was no LNG cargo available. The recent restart was facilitated by the early arrival of an LNG cargo, which was originally scheduled for August 23 but arrived a day ahead of schedule.
Impact on National Gas Supply
Before the arrival of the new LNG cargo, LNG-based gas supply stood at only 580 mmcfd. Following the arrival of the cargo, supply began to increase and now it has reached around 686 mmcfd. Of the total LNG supply, Summit is currently providing around 580 mmcfd of gas. Meanwhile, the country’s overall gas supply has increased to around 2,300 mmcfd.
Future Outlook
Petrobangla Chairman Abdul Mannan stated that they are working to bring more cargoes to keep gas supply at a reliable stage. The improvement in gas supply is crucial for the country’s energy needs and economic stability.
Why This Matters for Bangladesh
The resumption of operations at Excelerate’s FSRU is significant for Bangladesh as it helps stabilize the national gas supply. Reliable gas supply is essential for various sectors including power generation, industrial activities, and domestic use. The increase in LNG-based supply helps mitigate the risk of gas shortages and supports the country’s energy security.
