Dhaka, Mar 12 (V7N) – Bangladesh Bank has issued a set of strict energy-saving directives for all scheduled banks in the country as part of government efforts to address potential energy and power shortages amid the current global geopolitical situation.

The directive was issued on Wednesday (March 11) by the Banking Regulation and Policy Department (BRPD-1) of the central bank. It outlines several measures aimed at reducing electricity and fuel consumption in bank offices across the country.

According to the directive, banks must not set air conditioner temperatures below 25 degrees Celsius. Officials and employees have also been encouraged to use public transport instead of personal vehicles and adopt car-pooling or sharing arrangements where possible to reduce fuel consumption.

The central bank noted that the government is taking cost-effective measures to ensure energy security as disruptions in the global energy supply chain continue to affect many countries. The new instructions are aimed at ensuring the efficient use of state resources and minimizing energy wastage.

Key Instructions for Banks

Electricity Conservation:

  • Limit the use of electric lights, fans, air conditioners, and other electronic devices.

  • Ensure maximum use of daylight inside offices.

  • Turn off lights and AC units when not necessary.

  • Maintain AC temperatures at 25°C or above.

Fuel and Energy Saving:

  • Reduce fuel consumption of vehicles used for bank operations.

  • Encourage the use of public transportation instead of personal vehicles.

  • Introduce car-pooling systems where possible.

  • Limit or avoid unnecessary travel and related expenses.

Business Activities:

  • Follow prescribed schedules for lighting and electronic promotional display boards.

  • Avoid excessive or unnecessary lighting.

  • Take energy-efficient measures in the use of power generators.

The central bank also advised banks to comply with the earlier BRPD circular issued on September 7, 2022, which focused on the efficient use of electricity and energy-saving air-conditioning practices.

Bangladesh Bank stated that the directive has been issued in the public interest under Section 45 of the Banking Companies Act, 1991, and will come into effect immediately.

END/SMA/AJ