Banks asked to cut power, fuel use

Bangladesh Bank has called on banks to take precautionary steps to reduce electricity and fuel consumption in their offices in view of ongoing global geopolitical uncertainties that could disrupt energy supplies.

Through a circular, the central bank instructed banks to adopt a series of energy-saving measures at their head offices, branches, and sub-branches to ensure efficient use of electricity and fuel.

The directive noted that the current global situation has created risks of disruptions in international fuel supply chains, raising concerns about potential energy shortages. To address the situation and ensure optimal use of national resources, the government has already taken several austerity measures, it added.

As part of these measures, banks have been asked to limit the use of electrical equipment, including lighting, fans, and air conditioners, inside their offices. They must also maximize the use of daylight and keep lights and air conditioners switched off when not necessary.

The central bank further instructed banks to maintain air conditioner temperatures at no lower than 25 degrees Celsius.

To reduce fuel consumption, banks have been advised to limit the use of vehicles and adopt cost-saving measures in both personal and institutional travel. Officials have also been encouraged to use public transport or car-sharing where possible.

In addition, banks have been asked to restrict unnecessary travel and minimize fuel use for generators.

The circular also directed banks to avoid excessive decorative lighting and limit the use of promotional electronic display boards in bank buildings in line with scheduled operating hours.

The regulator reminded banks to strictly follow earlier instructions issued on September 7, 2022, regarding efficient use of electricity and fuel and proper management of air-conditioning systems.

According to Bangladesh Bank officials, the move is part of broader efforts to ensure prudent energy use in the financial sector amid global uncertainty in fuel markets.