Power Division Seeks Time to Address Load Shedding Issue
In a recent development, State Minister for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid has acknowledged the challenges faced by the Power Division in implementing schedule-wise power cuts nationwide. Due to the prolonged duration of power outages in various regions, the State Minister has requested a one-week timeframe to evaluate the situation comprehensively and devise an effective strategy to address the issue.
The government’s decision to implement countrywide power cuts with designated timetables for specific areas was driven by the need to conserve fuel amidst escalating global energy prices. Additionally, all diesel-fired power plants, which contribute significantly to the national grid’s daily power generation, have been temporarily shut down as part of the austerity measures.
Proposed Strategies and Future Plans
Following the assessment of the first week of power outages, the government aims to formulate new schedules for load shedding in the upcoming week, with the expectation that the situation will gradually improve over time. State Minister Nasrul Hamid emphasized the importance of analyzing the data from the initial week to inform future decisions regarding electricity rationing.
Furthermore, the State Minister highlighted the potential utilization of alternative energy sources in certain power plants as a temporary measure to mitigate the current challenges. He expressed optimism that the demand for power would decrease in the upcoming season, facilitating a more efficient management of the situation.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While addressing concerns about the escalating oil and gas crises, Nasrul emphasized the significance of prudent electricity consumption by the public to alleviate pressure on the existing resources. Disparities in power demands between urban and rural areas were also underscored, emphasizing the need for a balanced distribution of energy resources.
The State Minister noted that a substantial portion of the country’s diesel reserves is allocated to sectors beyond power generation, such as agriculture and transportation. With the daily power supply deficit exceeding 1,500MW, concerted efforts are required to streamline energy distribution and consumption patterns.
In conclusion, the State Minister reassured the public that the government is actively engaged in dialogue with stakeholders to address the challenges posed by the current energy crisis effectively. By implementing strategic measures and fostering responsible energy consumption practices, a sustainable solution to the prevailing issues can be achieved in the near future.