World Power Plants

Kaptai Hydro:Unit-1 2 3 4 5230 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Ranking as the 14th largest power generation facility in Bangladesh, the Kaptai Hydro: Unit-1 2 3 4 5 holds the distinction of being the only hydroelectric plant in the country. With a generation capacity of 230 MW, it contributes an impressive 1.94% to Bangladesh's total energy capacity of 11,840 MW, making it a vital component in the national energy profile. Commissioned in 1962 and operated by the Bangladesh Power Development Board, Kaptai Hydro stands as a crucial player in a predominantly gas-driven energy landscape. The presence of this hydro plant is particularly notable given that it is surrounded by several fossil fuel plants, including the Chittagong Roazan gas plant with a capacity of 553 MW and various oil-fired facilities. This unique geographic positioning highlights Kaptai Hydro's role as a renewable energy beacon in a region largely dependent on non-renewable sources. The facility’s ability to harness the natural flow of the Karnaphuli River has allowed it to provide a consistent and reliable source of electricity for decades, catering to the energy needs of the local population and industries. As Bangladesh looks to address its energy challenges and diversify its energy mix, Kaptai Hydro serves as an example of the potential for renewable energy sources to play a larger role. The future of this facility will be pivotal in the nation’s journey toward sustainable energy development and in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Capacity
230 MW
Commissioning Year
1962

64 years old

Owner
Bangladesh Power Development Board
Location
22.4950°, 92.2160°

Bangladesh, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 14. largest of 57 plants in Bangladesh
  • #6,945 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,339 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 1.94% of the installed capacity of Bangladesh
Age & fleet comparison

64 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Bangladesh Power Development Board operates 26 plants totalling 4,941 MW

Regional density

7 plants within 100 km, 1,124 MW combined

Nearest plant: Chittagong Roazan (24.8 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 22.495000, 92.216000
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Kaptai Hydro:Unit-1 2 3 4 5 is a hydro power plant producing approximately 806 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
Bangladesh
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

BangladeshEnergy Profile

57
Total Plants
11.8 GW
Total Capacity
GasOilCoalHydro
Top Fuels

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