The SS Power Plant, strategically located in Gandamara, Banshkhali, Chittagong, is on the verge of transforming the region’s energy dynamics, aiming to fully operationalize this year.
Despite initial operational hurdles, stakeholders remain optimistic about the plant’s pivotal role in addressing the escalating demand for uninterrupted power supply during the upcoming summer months.
The completed construction, concluded several years ago, has already contributed to the power grid for the past six months. However, challenges in sub-grid capacity hinder the plant’s full utilization, producing electricity at an economical Tk10-12 per megawatt. Officials are optimistic about overcoming these challenges by May, unlocking the plant’s complete capacity.
Presently, a single unit, generating 660MW, has been in operation since January 2023. The anticipation is for both units to be commissioned to meet the rising demand for electricity during the summer.
As a joint venture between Bangladesh and China, the SS Power Plant boasts an impressive 1,320MW capacity, with a cost of Tk28,000 crore. Currently contributing 451MW to the national grid, the completion of the 400KV Madunaghat substation in Chittagong between April and May aims to channel the plant’s entire electricity output into the national grid, with further expansion planned for September.
ASM Alamgir Kabir, advisor to SS Power, views the power plant as a historic achievement for Bangladesh, emphasizing its potential to save the government over Tk1,144 crore per month when fully operational.
Despite challenges like rising dollar prices and coal import issues, Ebadat Hossain Bhuiyan, the CFO of the power plant, highlights the government’s gradual payment of dues, totaling around Tk1,700 crore. Proactive measures are already underway to ensure uninterrupted power supply and generation during the summer.
The project’s infrastructure includes a coal unloading jetty, a 275-metre-high colored chimney, and specialized coal handling facilities. Advanced environmental measures, such as Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) systems, reduce carbon emissions by an impressive 99.87%.
The parent company, S Alam Group, envisions a sustainable future with plans to construct a 3,000MW power plant in Banshkhali, costing approximately $3 billion and emphasizing renewable energy sources. The project is set for implementation by 2027.
The SS Power Plant has not only boosted the economic landscape but has also led to infrastructural improvements, transforming livelihoods and reducing unemployment from 50% to below 20% in the once salt-reliant coastal area of Banshkhali. Director SM Alamgir Kabir notes the substantial positive impact on the standard of living for locals.
