The group continues supplying power to Bangladesh, despite outstanding payments

Adani Power, India’s largest private sector thermal power generator and part of the Adani Group, supplies power to Bangladesh from one of its power plants which is located in India’s Godda district in the east. This plant is dedicated to supplying to Bangladesh only and is not even connected to the Indian grid. This plant was set up with an investment of USD $2 Billion and was fully commissioned in June 2023.

The Godda plant provides power at one of the most competitive rates compared to other similar imported coal-based power plants. The plant meets 7-10% of Bangladesh's overall base load power demand, playing a crucial role in meeting the energy needs of the country’s northern region. Even during the recent unrest in Bangladesh and the subsequent change of government, Adani Power continued to supply Bangladesh through the Godda Power Plant.

During a recent media interaction, the recently appointed Bangladesh Bank governor revealed that the country owes ~US$800 to Adani Power, which it hasn’t been able to clear over several months due to various reasons like shortage of forex with the country’s central bank. This led to speculative questions that would Adani cease its supply till its dues are recovered? However, the company continues to supply power, exemplifying the spirit of partnership.

When contacted, Adani group didn’t comment on the quantum of dues but confirmed that it is continuing to supply power. “In the true spirit of partnership and goodwill, we continue to supply reliable and competitively priced power inspite of mounting dues. We are in constant dialogue with the Bangladesh government and have appraised them of this unsustainable situation where we are meeting not just our supply commitment but also to our lenders and suppliers despite rising receivables,”it said.

An Adani official said the company recognizes the significance of its power supply for the people of Bangladesh and continues not just meet its supply commitment but also to its lenders and raw material suppliers. The company has publicly affirmed its ongoing support for Bangladesh, though it has requested the timely settlement of outstanding dues.

This shows Adani Group’s commitment to its partners and goes beyond mere financial transactions.

In Sri Lanka, Adani Group is also planning to build wind power plants in the Northern Province, specifically in Mannar and Pooneryn. These power plants will add nearly 500 MW to the national grid. Unlike in Bangladesh’s case where the generating plant is located in India and in theory the company could stop the supply till its dues are settled, such a situation cannot arise here as Sri Lanka’s power will be generated within the country itself, using Sri Lanka’s natural (wind) resources. This will greatly enhance the nation's self-sufficiency and energy security.