Instead of opting for the potentially lethal option of having a nuclear (U236) radiation-laced Russian power plant; we should do what South Africa to deal with its power shortage, more than a decade back; and it will cost us less than what we are planning to spend for the, in my opinion, unjustified feasibility study from the Russians!
Similar problems were faced in South Africa where the gap between power production and its demand became large, during the 1990s. A well considered and planned Demand Side Management (DSM) policy, combining load reduction and aggressive drive to ensure power consumption efficiency both at the domestic, commercial and industrial sector was undertaken and implemented in a totally objective manner.
Peak demand was rationalised, by having staggered working hours for offices as well as commercial and industrial locations, based on geographic location, both around the country with a focus on large populous cities, where peak demand is often concentrated. In-house generation was encouraged, by providing easy capital to invest in generating equipment, and also providing by providing rebates on a monthly basis; so that their power costs did not become excessive.
Lighting was rapidly converted to CFL lighting, and this provided considerable load relief in cities and with regard t0 industrial lighting. In Bangladesh, CFL prices based on, a 20W bulb was reduced from Tk70 each in the 1990s to Tk16.50 each.
The target for the year after this in South Africa was introduced as a minimum of 12%. The long term plan, spread over 20 years, was to reduce the load by over 4000MW by 2010. Another important step, conspicuously missing in Bangladesh, was to reduce import duties and taxes for all electrical appliances like ACs, heaters, refrigerators and related consumer goods. The impact of this move was very effective, and it is something we have totally ignored.
These steps resulted in the achievement of a reduction of around 1kg of carbon dioxide emission and 1.2 ltr of water per KWh of electric power. Sector-wise gross saving of direct power consumed was 197MW and their target was achieved by 2004; from load management and increased energy efficient appliances. For us, chronically short of power, we must follow similar steps immediately!
We must ensure the maximum use of CFL lamps, through prohibitive duty and taxes for filament lamps, and reducing duties and taxes on CFL bulbs. This should be incorporated in the 2013-14 financial year. Harness all sizable private (in-house) power generation wherever possible to mitigate power shortages during maximum demand period. Adopt all possible measures to rationalise and minimise the use of power all over the country.