Bangladesh’s energy transition tilts towards coal

Workers carrying coal in Bangladesh. (PA)

Bangladesh estimates it needs $40 billion of investment to boost its generation capacity from its current 16 GW to 60 GW by 2041, with coal playing a key role.

The country plans to expand its coal-fired power capacity by more than three times its current level by 2040, largely neglecting its vast potential for solar power – which could be complemented by gas as a back-up fuel.

A roll-out of coal-fired plants would enable the South Asian nation to take advantage of its coal deposits while reducing...