Coal combustion and clean utilisation technologies in Bangladesh – environmental impacts and international perspectives

Bangladesh faces energy challenges as rapid depletion of natural gas reserves and rising electricity demand threaten near-term supply security. This study evaluates coal as a transitional energy source to enhance energy security while supporting sustainable development. It reviews national coal reserves, production trends, combustion technologies, environmental impacts, and policy frameworks, and compares Bangladesh with major coal-using countries. Bangladesh holds over 3.3 billion tonnes of proven coal, yet domestic extraction remains below 0.03% of potential. Existing coal capacity, such as Barapukuria (subcritical) and Payra (ultra supercritical), provides about 1,845 MWe, with additional high efficiency plants under construction. Quantitative analysis indicates adopting supercritical and ultra supercritical technologies can raise thermal efficiency to approximately 45% and reduce emissions by 15–20% relative to older subcritical units. Significant gaps persist in emission control, ash and waste management, and alignment with Nationally Determined Contributions. The paper recommends finalising a Coal and Clean Energy Transition Policy, mandating advanced pollution controls (FGD, SCR, ESP), promoting REE recovery from coal residues, and using coal revenues to finance renewables. Coal is framed as conditional, short-term bridge to secure electricity supply while enabling a managed transition toward a low carbon energy system. Findings inform policymakers, investors, and energy sector stakeholders.