Bangladesh issues 11 directives to save electricity, fuel in public offices

New rules mandate AC temperatures at 25°C or higher and daylight use to tackle energy crisis

The government has issued an 11-point directive for all public and autonomous offices to curb electricity and fuel consumption amid a mounting energy crisis.

The Cabinet Division on Thursday sent a letter to all government, statutory, and corporate bodies, stressing the need for "frugal and responsible behaviour" from officials and employees.

According to the directive, offices have been asked to avoid using electric lights during the day if there is sufficient natural light.

Windows, doors or blinds should be kept open to allow natural light inside.

Offices have also been instructed to use only half of the lights where possible and stop using unnecessary lighting.

During office hours, lights, fans, air conditioners and other electrical equipment beyond necessity must remain switched off.

When air conditioners are used, the temperature should be set at 25 degrees Celsius or higher, the notice said.

Officials and staff have also been asked to switch off all electrical equipment, including lights, fans and air conditioners, before leaving their rooms.

Unnecessary lighting in corridors, staircases and washrooms must also be stopped.

The directive further asks offices to use energy-efficient equipment and ensure that all electrical appliances – including lights, fans, computers, printers, scanners and air conditioners – are switched off after office hours.

All decorative lighting must be avoided, while the use of vehicles should be limited and fuel consumption reduced, the cabinet division said.