Bangladesh is considering extending weekends, introducing work-from-home options, adjusting office hours, and holding part of school and college classes online as global energy uncertainties put mounting pressure on the country's power and fuel supply.
Officials say the government is weighing at least eight measures aimed at conserving energy and reducing strain on foreign currency reserves amid rising fuel import costs.
Proposals under discussion include adding an extra day to the weekend or allowing officials to work from home for two days a week. Office hours may also be adjusted, either by starting earlier or finishing later, while the Energy Division has been tasked with preparing detailed proposals to be placed before the cabinet for approval.
"No decision has been made so far; the cabinet will determine which steps to adopt," an official said.
To reduce energy use in educational institutions, half of weekly classes may be held online. Beyond conserving electricity, these measures aim to ease pressure on the country's foreign currency reserves, as rising energy import bills are expected in the coming weeks.
Additional proposals under review include restricting overseas trips by officials and avoiding unnecessary government borrowing. While the government may consider raising fuel prices, officials say no final decision has been made, reflecting a cautious approach given the potential impact on households.
Several ministries have already begun drafting their own energy austerity plans. Measures include using natural light during office hours, maintaining air-conditioning at 25°C or higher, switching off unused electrical equipment, and avoiding unnecessary lighting.
Authorities stress that coordinated energy-demand management is now necessary to ease pressure on the national grid, especially after recent fuel hoarding and supply constraints.
Officials warn that the current crisis could extend beyond short-term measures if the global situation worsens.
"If the global situation deteriorates, we may need to move beyond short-term steps," a senior official said, noting that mid- and long-term strategies, spanning six months to a year, are under consideration. Lessons from the COVID-19 period suggest that swift decision-making is crucial, with some calling for special cabinet meetings and involvement of officials experienced in past crises to accelerate implementation.
Bangladesh's energy vulnerabilities stem largely from global supply disruptions, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz-a vital corridor for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Any disruption along this route directly affects import-dependent countries like Bangladesh, where power plants rely heavily on overseas gas and fuel.
In recent weeks, supply shortages have forced Bangladesh to scale back imports under long-term contracts and turn to the spot market, where prices have surged amid ongoing Middle East conflicts.
The government says a three-month short-term plan is being drafted to manage these pressures, while mid- and long-term strategies remain under review depending on global developments.
Officials emphasized that coordinated energy management, responsible consumption, and prudent financial measures are key to mitigating the crisis while ensuring public services continue uninterrupted.
