Dhaka: The World Bank has given its approval for a substantial funding of 300 million U.S. dollars to support Bangladesh in enhancing the efficiency of its gas distribution system and reducing methane emissions. The Gas Sector Efficiency Improvement and Carbon Abatement Project aims to implement prepaid metering systems for residential and industrial consumers, thereby curbing wastage and improving monitoring capabilities along the gas transmission and distribution network.

One of the key components of the project is the installation of over 1.2 million prepaid gas meters in Dhaka and Rajshahi divisions. In Greater Dhaka, 1.1 million prepaid meters will cover 54 percent of residential customers served by Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Limited. Additionally, 128,000 prepaid meters will be deployed in the Rajshahi division, encompassing the entire residential customer base of Pashchimanchal Gas Company Limited (PGCL). To further demonstrate the effectiveness of smart meters, about 50 such meters will be piloted for larger industrial users, facilitating better monitoring and management of gas consumption in the industrial sector.

Another significant aspect of the project involves the implementation of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition and Geographic Information System on the PGCL network. This system will enhance gas flow monitoring and aid in identifying and repairing methane leaks, thereby contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The project's focus on energy efficiency is vital for Bangladesh to meet its 2021 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) commitment of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. According to Abdoulaye Seck, the World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, this initiative will help in cutting down natural gas wastage in households and industries and reduce fugitive methane emissions resulting from gas production, processing, transmission, and distribution.

Overall, this funding from the World Bank is expected to play a significant role in enhancing Bangladesh's gas distribution system, promoting sustainability, and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.