The government of Bangladesh is being encouraged to accelerate reforms of the power sector by the World Bank. Without making any firm commitment for financial assistance, a suggestion of international funding is thought to have been made at a meeting with the power ministry.
Under a proposed three-year plan for the power sector the government intends to corporatise different sectors such as the Power Development Board and the Dhaka Electric Supply Authority (DESA) by December.
At least 25% of the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) and Dhaka Electric Supply Company (DESCO) will be issued through the capital markets by the end of 2006 under the plans.
Three power plant developments have also been proposed including the Sirajganj plant and Veramara plant at 450 MW each and the 150 MW Shikalbaha plant, for which World Bank funding is being sought.