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Government of

Bangladesh / ADB
ADB TA 4626-BAN: Corporatization of
Bangladesh Power Development Board
Final Report – Main Document
21 July 2008
Government of
Bangladesh / ADB
ADB TA 4626-BAN: Corporatization of
Bangladesh Power Development Board
Final Report – Main Document
21 July 2008

© PA Knowledge Limited 2008

PA Consulting Group
Level 4
Prepared by: PA Consulting Group 369 Queen St
in association with HB Auckland 1010
Consultants New Zealand
Tel: +64 9 306 8895
Fax: +64 9 306 8896
www.paconsulting.com

Version: 1.0

Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08


FOREWORD

This report represents the work conducted by PA Consulting Group in association with HB
Consultants Ltd under ADB TA 4626-BAN: Corporatization of Bangladesh Power
Development Board. The PA team included Mike Crosetti (Team Leader/Corporate
Restructuring & Governance Expert), Bernard Ivory (Financial Expert), Ed Hourihan
(Commercial Expert), Ashit Ranjan (Human Resources Expert), Bruce Wickes (MIS
Expert), and Nihad Kabir (Legal Expert). The HB team included Shawkat Ali Ferdousi
(Corporate Restructuring & Governance Expert), Kazi Mostafa Alam (Financial Expert),
Zakir Hossain (Human Resources Expert), Syed Arifuzzaman (MIS Expert), and Sheikh
Fazle Noor Taposh (Legal Expert).

The team submitted a Draft Final Report in November, 2007. That report consolidated the
analysis, findings and recommendations of the consultants since the inception of the
project in March, 2006. The project continued for longer than the 12 months originally
anticipated due to the numerous changes that took place in Bangladesh over this period,
at one point resulting in a six month suspension of project activities.

The Government of Bangladesh provided comments on that report in January, 2008. This
report addresses those comments as well as comments received separately from ADB.

The consultants gratefully acknowledge the guidance and support of the counterpart team
from the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources (MPEMR) and Bangladesh
Power Development Board (BPDB) and its subsidiaries, in particular Dr. Fouzul Kabir
Khan, Secretary (Power), MPEMR, and Mr. Delwar Hossain, Director (System Planning),
as well as Mr. Pil-Bae Song of the Asian Development Bank and Mr. ANM Rizwan.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
ABBREVIATIONS

ADP Annual Development Plan


AGC Automatic Generation Control
AoA Articles of Association
APSCL Ashuganj Power Station Company Limited
BAS Bangladesh Accounting Standards
BB Bangladesh Bank
BERC Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission
BoD Board of Directors
BOI Board of Investment
BPDB Bangladesh Power Development Board
BSTI Bangladesh Standards Testing Institute
BTTB Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board
BWDB Bangladesh Water Development Board
CCIE Chief Controller of Import and Export
CE Chief Engineer
CEO Chief Executive Officer
CFO Chief Financial Officer
CI Controller of Insurance
CIFE Chief Inspector of Factories and Establishment
DESA Dhaka Electric Supply Authority
DESCO Dhaka Electric Supply Company Limited
DFSCD Department of Fire Service & Civil Defence
DOE Department of Environment
DOEXP Department of Explosives
DPDC Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited
EGCB Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Limited
EP WAPDA East Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority
EPMS Employee Performance Management System
ERP Enterprise Resource Planning
FERA Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947
FFU Fund Facilitation Unit
FMU Financial Management Upgrade
FRRP Financial Restructuring and Recovery Plan
FY Financial Year
GM General Manager
GOB Government of Bangladesh
GPS Ghorasal Power Station
G,T&D Generation, transmission and distribution
HO Head Office
HPSP Health and Population Sector Program
IDCOL Infrastructure Development Company Limited
IPPs Independent Power Producers
IVVR Identification, Verification, Valuation, Recording

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
Abbreviations…

IWTA Inland Water Transport Authority


KPIs Key Performance Indicators
kV kilo Volt
kWh kilo watt-hours
MD Managing Director
MIS Management Information System
MOA Memorandum of Association
MOC Ministry of Commerce
MOF Ministry of Finance
MOHA Ministry of Home Affairs
MPEMR Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources
MVA mega Volt-Ampere
MW megawatts
NBR National Board of Revenue
NLDC National Load Dispatch Center
NWPGC North West Power Generation Company Limited
NWZPDCL North West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited
O&M Operation and Maintenance
P&L Profit and Loss
PBS Palli Bidyut Samiti
PC Planning Commission
PDB Power Development Board (same as BPDB above)
PGCB Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Limited
PKSF Palli Karma Sahayak Foundation
PO Presidential Order
POA Power of Attorney
PPAs Power Purchase Agreements
PSIFP Power Sector Investment Funding Program
PSRB Power Sector Reforms in Bangladesh
RAJUK Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha
RCE Revenue to Current Expenditure
REB Rural Electrification Board
RJSC Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms
RLIF Revenue Loss Impact Factor
RPCL Rural Power Company Limited
RTC Regional Training Center
RTM Registrar of Trade Marks
SAIDI System Average Interruption Duration Index
SAIFI System Average Interruption Frequency Index
SBC Sadharan Bima Corporation
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
SEC Securities and Exchange Commission
SMU Systems Management Unit
SWM Sector Wide Management
TQM Total Quality Management
VRS Voluntary Retirement Scheme

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Abbreviations…

WASA Water and Sewerage Supply Authority


WDB Water Development Board
WZPDCL West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited
ZRS Zonal Repairing Shop

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

ES.1 Background & Objectives

Despite economic growth averaging some 5.1% annually over the past 10 years,
Bangladesh continues to face daunting problems in the power sector, notably:

• An electrification ratio of less than 40%.

• Extensive load shedding. Load shedding sometimes approaches 1,000 MW,


equivalent to about 25% of total de-rated generation capacity in the country.

The electrification ratio can be improved by extending rural electrification, and load
shedding can be reduced by adding and rehabilitating generation capacity, and where
necessary, upgrading transmission and distribution capacity. However, these actions
require capital investment, which is not available in sufficient quantities to make major
progress in addressing these problems.

The lack of capital investment is a symptom of more fundamental problems within the
sector. Specifically, tariffs and Government subsidies are inadequate to recover the cost
of supply, and the overall cost of supply itself is high due to excessive losses and other
inefficiencies. The current situation is summarized in Exhibit ES.1.

Exhibit ES.1: Fundamental Problems in the Bangladesh Power Sector

Root Causes Symptom Consequences

Losses & Other


Inefficiencies Low Access
T&D losses are 23% of Electrification ratio < 40%
total net generation.
State-sector generation Insufficient
relatively inefficient.
Capital Funding

Inadequate Poor Reliability


Tariffs &
Extensive load shedding due to
Subsidies estimated peak time shortfall of
Sector revenue generates operating profit some 1,000 MW
before depreciation & interest equivalent
to only 2.2% of net fixed assets.
Inadequate to maintain & expand capacity

Through the 1994 Power Sector Reforms in Bangladesh, the 2000 Vision and Policy
Statement, and the 2005 Power Sector Reform Roadmap, the Government of Bangladesh
has defined a comprehensive approach to addressing these problems. As part of this
approach, the Government has embarked on corporatization of the operating units of the
Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). The Government’s corporatization effort
aims to expand the autonomy of these units to operate on commercial and technical
grounds while simultaneously introducing mechanisms to hold these companies
accountable for their performance. Experience with unbundling and corporatization of
BPDB operating units has demonstrated positive results such as lower losses and higher
collections.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
Executive Summary…

The corporatization process requires the creation of a new state-owned company in


addition to the existing public body, as shown in Exhibit ES.2. Successful corporatization
introduces new business processes that contribute to better governance, improved
performance management and greater efficiency. Existing business processes need to be
reviewed and if appropriate either re-designed or replaced entirely before the newly
corporatized entity commences operations. Once these processes have been established
and the new entity legally constituted, assets and liabilities may be transferred from the
legacy entity, contracts assigned, and personnel recruited and/or transferred. It can then
begin commercial operation.

Exhibit ES.2: The Corporatization Process

The Existing Entity (Public Body)

HR Transfer Scheme
Fin. Transfer Scheme

Human Resources
Wind-up

Contracts
Liabilities

Assets
New Process Development

The New Entity (State-owned Company)

Legal Time
establishment

A holding company is a company that owns other companies. A non-operating holding


company does not directly produce any goods or services for purchase by final
consumers but instead leaves that up to its subsidiaries. This is not a trivial role. An
effective non-operating holding company will actively drive performance in and seek to
optimize investment across its subsidiaries by virtue of its powers as shareholder in those
companies. Exhibit ES.3 depicts the principal functions and issues in a state-owned
holding company structure.

Exhibit ES.3: Functions and Issues in a Holding Company Structure


LEVEL ROLE ISSUES
Shareholder • Appointment, removal & composition of
• Appoints Board Board
Government • Monitors Board performance • Performance improvement mechanisms
against targets • Owner’s representative

Holding Company • Performance improvement mechanisms


• Shareholder of Subsidiaries • Operating vs. non-operating
• Insulates against government • Planning, coordination, support and
Holding Company interference Single Buyer functions
• Drives commercial performance • Financial role
• Corporate governance

Subsidiary Companies • Autonomy and boundaries of authority &


• Conduct operations responsibility
Regulator • Performance management mechanisms
• Contract with other firms
 Tariffs • Serve customers • Commercial arrangements with outside
 Codes entities
 Licenses

Other
Subsidiaries
Firms
 Contracts
 Can be other  Payments
subsidiaries  Service

Customers

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

This study aims to create the blueprint for corporatization of BPDB as a holding company.
This blueprint covers the organizational, financial, legal, human resource, and information
technology dimensions of the corporatization strategy. The report distinguishes between
BPDB and the new successor holding company, referred to here as HoldCo. While
corporatization of BPDB as a holding company can accelerate and expand the gains
achieved through reform efforts, it is not a panacea. To be effective in the long term,
corporatization must go hand-in-hand with tariff reform. Corporatized entities can improve
reliability and increase access only if they are financially viable.

ES.2 Target Corporate Structure & Migration Plan

Five options are considered for the medium-term target structure of HoldCo:

1. No holding company, i.e. HoldCo is not established and all operating companies
are owned directly by the Government.

2. An operating holding company, where HoldCo would continue to conduct the


generation and distribution activities currently conducted by BPDB

3. A non-operating holding company that owns the single buyer

4. A non-operating holding company with the single buyer as a separate entity owned
directly by the Government

5. Multiple holding companies, in which a separate Generation Holding Company and


Distribution Holding Company are established.

These options were assessed against seven criteria:

1. Financial coordination & optimization. The structure helps ensure that HoldCo can
optimally allocate whatever limited financial resources are available across
generation, transmission and distribution parts of the business, with a long-term
commercial view reflecting the Government’s broader policy objectives for the
sector.

2. Autonomy. HoldCo helps insulate state-owned power sector operations from


Government interference. The Government will of course remain involved in the
sector by virtue of its policy-making and funding roles, but HoldCo can take on
commercial management of the sector. Greater autonomy must of course be
accompanied by better performance management to ensure accountability, and
HoldCo can focus on developing and applying performance management systems
while providing operating entities with the latitude and incentives to make the best
possible commercial decisions.

3. G, T & D Differentiation. A HoldCo structure must balance the unbundling of


generation, transmission and distribution (G, T & D) operations to improve focus
on specific elements of the value chain, with creating synergy between various
parts of the business. Unbundling results in decentralization, where as creating
synergy requires some degree of centralized control.

4. HR Availability. Qualified human resources are at a premium in Bangladesh. Any


HoldCo design should minimize the number of personnel required in senior
executive positions.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

5. Institutionalization of Accountability. Many of the mechanisms to improve sector


performance could be implemented on an ad hoc basis by Government. However,
unless such mechanisms were enshrined in law, continued application would
depend upon the disposition of the Secretary (Power) and other senior
Government officials who happen to be in power at any given time. While such a
law is unlikely, the design of HoldCo can help to institutionalize mechanisms to
drive sector performance rather than relying on the personal vision and
effectiveness of Government officials who change frequently. Perhaps the single
most important mechanism is a system to impose accountability. The Articles and
Memorandum of Association for HoldCo can stipulate the performance monitoring
and associate functions to drive accountability across the entities it owns.

6. Simplicity. Any structural design that is adopted should avoid duplication of


function, and minimize complexity to facilitate implementation.

7. Compliance with laws, policies and contracts. Finally, any HoldCo structure must
comply with prevailing laws and policies, and accommodate existing contractual
arrangements with other parties such as IPPs.

The first three criteria above represent impediments to improved sector performance
explicitly identified in the 2000 Vision & Policy Statement. The last four represent other
practical considerations.

Based on analysis of the five options against the seven criteria, the non-operating holding
company with separate single buyer (Option 4) was identified as the most promising
option, as summarized in Exhibit ES.4. Under this option the generation, transmission and
distribution operations previously owned or conducted by BPDB are transferred to HoldCo
as subsidiary companies once they meet certain conditions. The residual BPDB continues
separately as the single buyer. (“Residual BPDB” refers to BPDB after establishment of
HoldCo and corporatization of its remaining generation and distribution operations as
HoldCo subsidiaries).

A principal benefit of this approach as opposed to creation of a single buyer subsidiary


owned by HoldCo, or transfer of the single buyer function to HoldCo, is that assignment of
PPAs is not on the critical path for operationalization of HoldCo. As single buyer, BPDB
serves as counterparty to all power purchase agreements (PPAs) with independent power
producers (IPPs). Assigning these PPAs to HoldCo or a new subsidiary would take
substantial time and effort, and likely delay the start of HoldCo operations and resulting
benefits. The residual BPDB could nonetheless be corporatized later as a Single Buyer
Company as soon as the PPAs are assigned and Presidential Order 59 (PO 59) is
amended to allow transfer of the system planning function to a successor company.

The non-operating holding company is also highly flexible and could be readily adapted to
meet changes as the sector evolves. Examples of further evolution include the complete
separation of generation from transmission and distribution, or the transfer of other power
sector entities currently not under BPDB, such as DESCO, to HoldCo. Therefore,
establishing HoldCo as a non-operating holding company with the separate single buyer
serves as an achievable interim target and if successful provides a platform for addressing
further changes in the power supply industry.

viii
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Exhibit ES.4: Evaluation of Structural Options for HoldCo


Financial Legal, Policy
Optimization Business HR Institution- &
Option &
Autonomy
focus Availability alization
Simplicity
Contractual
Coordination Compatibility

1. No Holding Company       
2. Operating HoldCo       
3. Non-Operating HoldCo
      
that owns the Single Buyer
4. Non-Operating HoldCo
      
with separate Single Buyer
5. Multiple HoldCos       

Evaluation key:
 Fully meets or directly supports the criterion
 Partially meets or indirectly supports the criterion
 Slightly meets or supports the criterion
 Conflicts with the criterion

Two migration options were considered to reach this target structure from the existing
BPDB structure.

• Migration Option 1: First create HoldCo as an operating holding company and


transfer all people, assets, liabilities and contracts into it from BDPB, then transfer
operations into subsidiaries and separate the Single Buyer. This makes the
Operating Holding Company (Target Option 2 above) a transitional stage to reach
the target of a Non-Operating Holding Company with the Single Buyer separate
(Target Option 4 above).

• Migration Option 2: First create HoldCo as a non-operating holding company, and


then transfer BPDB operations as they are corporatized to become subsidiaries of
HoldCo. Residual BPDB remains the Single Buyer, which can later be corporatized
once PPAs are assigned.

Both approaches result in a residual BPDB and a separate HoldCo.

Four criteria were identified as a basis for selecting between these two migration options:

1. Speed. The migration path should minimize dependencies on outside events, such
as assignment of PPAs, amendment of PO 59, etc.

2. Effectiveness. The migration path should contribute to the development of a


commercial culture within the new entity.

3. Stakeholder Perceptions. The migration path should demonstrate “quick wins” that
can contribute to broad support for the restructuring effort.

4. Operational Risk. The migration path should minimize the likelihood of service
disruptions.

Based on analysis of the two options against these four criteria, establishing a non-
operating holding company from the outset (Migration Option 2) was identified as the most
promising option. Exhibit ES.5 summarizes the evaluation of the two migration options,
with green shading indicating reasons why an option meets a criterion, yellow indicating

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

uncertainty whether the option would meet the criterion, and red indicating reasons the
option does not fit the criterion.

Exhibit ES.6 shows the proposed migration from the current to the target corporate
structure.

Exhibit ES.5: Evaluation Summary of Migration Options


Criterion Non-Operating Holding Co. First Operating Holding Company First
1. PPAs remain with Residual BPDB, 1. PPAs must be assigned
which still functions as Single Buyer

Minimize 2. Residual BPDB can remain Single 2. PO 59 must be amended


outside Buyer
dependencies 3. HoldCo can be established with new 3. HoldCo including all legacy
(speed) accounting system & clean financials BPDB operations must comply
that comply with BAS. BPDB and its with Bangladesh Accounting
subsidiaries can update their Standards (BAS) per the
accounting individually over time, Companies Act 1994
and when ready can transfer.

Promote Facilitates desired culture because Depends on understanding &


commercial established on “greenfield” basis. People acceptance of new conditions of
culture transfer to HoldCo at least in part on service, and commitment of ex-BPDB
understanding & acceptance of new managers to new system
(effectiveness) culture.
Demonstrate HoldCo and new subsidiaries, if HoldCo performance will be
“quick wins” structured with clean balance sheets and compromised by inclusion of loss-
proper transfer prices, can demonstrate making operations
(stakeholder
immediate benefits
perceptions)
1. Operations are corporatized • Possibility that new systems
Minimize risk piecemeal, only when they are ready cannot be successfully rolled out
of service company-wide. “Putting all the
disruption eggs in one basket”.
(operational 2. BPDB employees may resist the • BPDB employees less likely to
risk) change, potentially feeling that resist as they will have option to
healthy operations are being transfer en masse
established at expense of BPDB.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Exhibit ES.6: Proposed Migration to the Target HoldCo Structure

Stage 0: Current State Ownership Structure

 BPDB is a statutory corporation under MPEMR


 DESA is in process of being corporatized as the Dhaka Power
Distribution Company Ltd. (DPDC)

MPEMR

Establish &
BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
PBS
PBS
DESCO PBS
PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone Rural Power
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist Co. Ltd.

Entities already established Existing Government


under the Companies Act agency or body

Stage 1: Create New Holding Company


 A new holding company (HoldCo) is established under the Companies Act
1994 as a non-operating holding company.
 HoldCo will be established with clean opening balance sheets, new conditions
of service, as well as systems and processes that promote commercial
discipline and enable efficient and effective function as a holding company.

MPEMR

Establish &
New HoldCo BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation PBS
PBS
DESCO PBS
PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone Rural Power
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist Co. Ltd.

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Stage 2: Transfer Existing BPDB Subsidiaries

 Existing BPDB subsidiaries are transferred to HoldCo when each is


ready and transfer prerequisites are met.

MPEMR

Establish &
HoldCo BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
PBS
PBS
DESCO PBS
PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone Rural Power
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist Co. Ltd.

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

Stage 3: Create New Subsidiaries


 Existing core business operations of BPDB (distribution, single buyer,
generation) will be corporatized as subsidiaries of HoldCo as they are ready.
 Non-core BPDB businesses will be either (i) spun-off (ii) incorporated into
subsidiaries or (iii) corporatized as separate subsidiaries of HoldCo, e.g. a
Services Company.
MPEMR

Establish &
HoldCo BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
DESCO PBS
PBS
PBS
PBS

Ashuganj New
New
New Rural Power
West Zone
PGCB Power EGCB Gencos Co. Ltd.
Dist Operating
Gencos
Station
Companies

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

Stage 4: Holding Company Complete

 Once all operations of BPDB have been migrated to the new entities
or otherwise disposed of, the residual BPDB will continue to function
as the single buyer.

MPEMR

Establish &
HoldCo Residual BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
(as Single Buyer)

DESCO PBS
PBS
PBS
PBS

Support New New Rural Power


Single New New
PGCB Gencos Gencos Co. Ltd.
Services Buyer Gencos
Gencos Distcos
Gencos

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body
xii
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

ES.3 Principal HoldCo Roles & Functions

HoldCo will be a non-operating holding company. Its Articles and Memorandum of


Association developed under this study preclude direct involvement in generation,
transmission or distribution. Its principal functions will be to drive performance in and seek
to optimize the allocation of capital investment across its subsidiaries by virtue of its
powers as shareholder. This latter function is particularly important given the constrained
availability of funds for capital investment in the Bangladesh power sector.

HoldCo will perform these two functions through the following activities:

• Financial Planning entails review and understanding of the least-cost system plan
prepared by the Single Buyer (BPDB), determining the availability of capital
funding for the investments identified in the plan, and then allocating the available
funds across the subsidiaries taking into account the dependency between various
investments (e.g. distribution extension first requires new transmission and
generation), and the individual contribution of these potential investments towards
the Government’s policy objectives for the sector, as reflected in HoldCo’s
performance contract.

• Performance Management. HoldCo will enter into a performance contract with the
Government that transparently documents the measurable targets HoldCo is
expected to achieve. These targets should align directly with the Government’s
policy objectives for the sector. It will also specify the resources Government
commits to HoldCo in order to fulfil these responsibilities (e.g. capital funding and
baseline tariff levels). The provisions of the Government-HoldCo performance
contract will cascade down to individual HoldCo-Subsidiary performance contracts,
and ultimately to individual employees throughout the Group (i.e. HoldCo and its
subsidiaries together). Performance against targets will be monitored, reported
and rewarded through an integrated performance management system covering
all levels of the Group (building up from individual employee to HoldCo itself as a
corporate entity). HoldCo will take remedial actions as appropriate to improve
weak performance in subsidiaries, including provision of technical advice to
subsidiaries and, if necessary, replacement of subsidiary management.

Each performance contract will reflect powers and restrictions stipulated in the relevant
Articles and Memoranda of Association. Each will define the measurable targets for the
entity, consistent with the authority it has been granted and the resources it will receive. It
will also define how performance against these targets is to be measured and reported,
and the rewards (or sanctions) that will accompany achievement (or failure). Employee
performance management will follow an analogous process and rely on similar
documentation.

Exhibit ES.7 shows the corresponding HoldCo value chain.

Exhibit ES.7: The HoldCo Value Chain

Financial Planning Performance Management

Negotiate Negotiate Establish


Determine Monitor & Assist with
Understand Allocate GOB Subsidiary HoldCo
Available Report Remedial
System Plan Capital Performance Performance Personnel
Funding Performance Actions
Contract Contracts Targets

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Exhibit ES.8 shows how HoldCo will implement these functions with respect to
Government and its Subsidiary Companies (SubCos). HoldCo will have a business
orientation, not an engineering orientation. It will not be directly involved in the physical
production or delivery of electricity, but will hold its operating subsidiaries accountable for
their annual performance. These roles are institutionalized through the Articles and
Memorandum of Association for HoldCo.

Exhibit ES.8: Interaction between Government, HoldCo and SubCos


Rewards & remedial
Government actions, e.g. bonuses,
change of personnel
Targets Performance contracting
Consolidated
consistent with Government
optimal capital
with capex supervision based on
financing plan
funding sector-level objectives
Capital funding
(including loans &
grants from HoldCo
Development Partners)
following Government- Individual Targets Performance contracting with HoldCo
HoldCo agreement on capital consistent supervision based on specific generation,
financing plan financing plans with capex transmission & distribution targets to
funding support sector-level objectives

SubCos Rewards & remedial


actions, e.g. bonuses,
change of personnel,
technical assistance

Exhibit ES.9 enumerates HoldCo’s core functions as well as subsidiary support functions.

ES.4 HoldCo Organizational Structure

HoldCo should be organized internally around the work that it does. Exhibit ES.10
identifies the principal organizational units that will execute the various elements of its
value chain. Based on this, Exhibit ES.11 depicts the proposed high-level organizational
structure of HoldCo. In addition to these structural units, there will be various ad hoc
teams that are constituted to perform work of a temporary or intermittent nature (e.g.
annual preparation or updating of the Government-HoldCo performance contract). It is
anticipated that HoldCo will require only 50 to 100 professional personnel.

An alternative organizational structure was proposed by BPDB personnel and is reviewed


in this report. Key features and associated concerns for that proposal include:
• It splits performance monitoring into two departments, one for generation &
transmission, the other for distribution. This could impede consistency of metrics,
measurements and rewards, and, of greatest concern, could result in these
departments attempting to control the subsidiaries they monitor. HoldCo is to impose
accountability on its autonomous subsidiaries, not control them, and the risk of control
increases by structuring HoldCo to mirror the operations of unbundled SubCos rather
than providing an overarching performance monitoring function.
• It establishes O&M and Commercial divisions within each performance monitoring
department, but these are operating functions. HoldCo is not involved in operations.
• It separates IT from performance monitoring, but the principal function of IT in HoldCo
is to facilitate performance monitoring.
• It moves system planning review out of the financial planning department. This
means there is no single unit responsible for preparation of the financial plan, which

xiv
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

integrates system planning considerations (the least-cost plan) with funding


constraints (which determine feasibility).

Exhibit ES.9: HoldCo Functions

Near Term Long Term


Financial Coordination – Capex Screening. Financial Coordination – Corporate
• Develop a coordination process for subsidiaries to Finance.
provide inputs to system planner and to prepare • Negotiate with Government through
capex plans in a standard format. Power Division to secure block grant.
• Compile all government-financed capex plans from • Compile all government-financed
subsidiaries. capex plans from subsidiaries.
• Review plans against system plan and ensure • Review plans against system plan
consistency. Assess linkages & prerequisites for and ensure consistency. Assess
each capex proposal. linkages/prerequisites for each capex
• Screen plans based on financial returns & other proposal.
impacts on other key performance indicators (KPIs), • Screen plans based on financial
as well as on dependency/linkage with other returns and dependency/linkage with
operations or investment. other operations or investment.
• Present integrated plan to Power Division for review • Determine how block grant to be
and forwarding to Planning Commission. allocated and delivered to
• Represent all operating companies in project public subsidiaries (e.g. debt, equity) taking
financing matters with Power Division & Planning into account approved projects
Commission. • Consider introduction of a Group
• Adjust capex plans based on final approval from Treasury function
Planning Commission.
Performance monitoring.
• Agree with Government on HoldCo KPIs.
• Develop/agree with Government on HoldCo performance contract.
• Agree with subsidiaries on subsidiary KPIs.
• Develop/agree with subsidiaries on their performance contracts.
• Define information requirements from subsidiaries and mode of delivery.
• Conduct internal audits of subsidiaries as appropriate.
• Report monitoring results to Government on agreed schedule.
• Review monitoring results with subsidiaries on agreed schedule.
• Take actions with respect to approval of subsidiary director bonus and/or replacement.
Legal Compliance. HoldCo to ensure that subsidiaries are aware of and complying with all
health, safety, environmental, labor, tax, establishment, accounting and industry regulations.
Information Technology. HoldCo to:
• Define & establish system for delivery & reporting of subsidiary performance & compliance.
• Define & establish system for compilation and reporting of HoldCo performance & compliance.
• Establish IT Principles governing all subsidiaries.
• Monitor compliance/implementation of those principles, and report findings to HoldCo Board.
• Determine relative IT investment priorities among subsidiaries.
• Develop and support HoldCo IT systems.
Human Resources. HoldCo to:
• Conduct search for subsidiary directors
• Define/negotiate terms & conditions of subsidiary director appointments.
• Establish HR management principles for subsidiaries.
• Monitor compliance/implementation of those principles, and report findings to HoldCo Board.
• Manage HoldCo personnel
Stakeholder Management. (e.g. investor relations, public relations, advertising/branding, etc.)
No function anticipated.

xv
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Exhibit ES.10: Mapping of HoldCo’s Value Chain to Organizational Units


Financial
Planning Performance
Dept. Management
Dept.

Negotiate Negotiate Establish


Determine Monitor & Assist with
Understand Allocate GOB Subsidiary HoldCo
Available Report Remedial
System Plan Capital Performance Performance Personnel
Funding Performance Actions
Contract Contracts Targets

HoldCo Programs &


Performance Projects
HR Cell
Contract Dept.
Team

Exhibit ES.11: High-Level HoldCo Organizational Structure


Board of Directors

Internal Audit

Chief Executive Officer

HR & Training

Corporate Communications Legal & Company Sec’y

Vice President Vice President Vice President


Financial Planning Performance Management Programs & Projects

GM Funding Project
GM IT & Systems
Monitoring
GM Accounting GM Performance
Monitoring Project Team 1
GM System
Planning Review Project Team 2

ES.5 Implementation Plan

Establishing HoldCo entails the following major steps:


1. Incorporation of HoldCo and provision of capital. This can occur as soon as the
Government approves the Articles and Memorandum of Association and
subscribes the funds for initial capitalization of the company. It can probably
occur within 2 months of the Government’s decision to proceed with HoldCo.
2. Appointment of directors. The signatories to the Articles of Association (AoA)
automatically become the first Board of Directors. However, this is only a
temporary step until a new board can be established following the process
outlined in the AoA. The Government may initiate this process by appointing a
selection panel following the provisions of the AoA even if the AoA has not yet
been executed. This is the initial critical path task in the establishment of
HoldCo. It is expected that the “real” Board can be established within 3 to 5
months of the Government’s decision to proceed with HoldCo.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

3. Appointment of managing director (chief executive officer). This will be


conducted by the Board of Directors. The process should be complete within 3
to 4 months of the Board taking up its duties.
4. Acquisition of premises and initial assets. This can be performed under the
supervision of the managing director, in parallel with the employment of staff.
5. Employment of staff. A cascading recruitment process is envisioned in which
each level of management vets the level of management below it. It is
expected that Vice Presidents will be appointed within 4 to 6 months of the
Board taking up its duties. Employment of staff should be complete within 7 to
12 months of the Board taking up its duties, and will follow open recruitment.
As staff join, they can further define and document the new business
processes to be performed in their respective areas.
6. Acquisition of shares in power companies. This may happen after a critical
mass of personnel have been hired, most likely 5 to 8 months after the Board
takes up its duties. The transfer of former BPDB subsidiaries to or the spin-off
of remaining BPDB generation and distribution operations as subsidiaries of
HoldCo should be contingent upon the subsidiary achieving the following
conditions:
• Profitability of the company is at or near the level projected in the FRRP.
• The company’s debt service and trade purchase payments are up to date
• The ability to provide financial information in the detail necessary for
consolidation in Group financial statements has been established
• An adequate and effective management structure exists.

Overall, the establishment and operationalization of HoldCo will require some 10 to 17


months from the time the Government decides to proceed. This is consistent with the start
date of 30 June 2009 assumed in the financial projections.

ES.6 The Future of BPDB

Out of the 13,649 employees reported for BPDB in 2007, 10,561 will be transferred to
corporatized generation and distribution subsidiaries. Of the remaining 3,088 BPDB
employees, 2,232 will be transferred to a Support Services company.

Of the remaining 856 employees, all of whom are from the BPDB Head Office, it is
estimated that 268 will also be transferred to subsidiaries. The remaining 588 personnel in
the BPDB Head Office will be responsible for the preparing remaining BPDB operations
for corporatization and performing the single buyer function. Over time, as operations are
corporatized, BPDB will be left with only the single buyer function.

The single buyer function currently employees about 238 personnel. Consequently, there
could be as many as 351 excess personnel once corporatization of operating units is
complete. However, it is not clear how much natural attrition will have occurred by that
time, either through retirement or successful application to HoldCo. In any case, this
number of employees can be maintained without compromising the financial viability of
the HoldCo concept. Creation of HoldCo as proposed does not result in loss of
employment or redundancy. This is consistent with Government policy that no one will
lose his or her job as a result of power sector reform. (Given the limited number of
employees involved and problems with recent Voluntary Retirement Schemes in
Bangladesh, creation of a VRS to facilitate corporatization of BPDB is not recommended).

xvii
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

As noted above, BPDB should continue to serve as the single buyer until the PPAs are
assigned to a corporatized successor, at which point all personnel should transferred on
an as-is, where-is basis to the newly corporatized single buyer company.

The single buyer typically performs the following functions:

• System planning. It forecasts demand growth and determines the least


cost generation and transmission capacity additions to meet that growth. In
the new funding mechanism proposed for the sector, BPDB will prepare its
system plan as it does now, but then forward it to HoldCo for review and
funding analysis.

• Procurement. It procures new generation, typically on a competitive basis,


to meet expected demand.

• Contracting. It contracts with generators and distributors for the purchase


and sale of bulk power. PPAs will have to be developed for each of the new

• Settlement. It settles (i.e. invoices distributors and pays generators)


monthly for bulk power transactions.

BPDB currently conducts all of these functions except for procurement. While it
participates in the procurement process for new independent power producers (IPPs),
Power Cell leads this process on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh. BPDB
employees participate with the Power Cell team for procurement and contracting.

Like HoldCo, the residual BPDB will not have an operating role for the physical delivery of
power. It will fulfill purely planning and commercial functions. Though it may participate in
monthly system operation coordination meetings with generators and PGCB, dispatch
should remain solely under PGCB’s National Load Dispatch Center (NLDC). The purpose
of the monthly coordination meetings will be to share information on the monthly load
forecast, plant operating costs, system constraints and scheduled maintenance so that the
NLDC can establish a supply curve against which merit order dispatch can be conducted.
The BPDB single buyer can contribute information on expected variable costs per the
PPAs it holds, as well as take note of forecast plant availability.

BPDB’s current structure should therefore be retained initially. As remaining operations of


BPDB are corporatized, those branches of the organization will move to the subsidiaries.
By the time the corporatization of subsidiaries is complete and BPDB performs only the
single buyer function, all of the organizational units under Member Distribution and
Member Generation will have been spun off to new operating companies along with all
training, engineering, and logistics units to the Support Services company. (Organizational
units under Member Transmission have already been spun off). The remaining
organizational units under Administration and Finance will also slim down as personnel
and in some cases, entire units, move to the new subsidiaries. Ultimately, BPDB as the
single buyer will have on the order of 200 personnel and an organizational structure along
the lines of that shown in Exhibit ES.11. The functions of each department would be much
the same as in the existing BPDB.

xviii
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Exhibit ES.11: Structure of Residual BPDB as Single Buyer

Chairman
Energy audit, security
Secretary
& investigations

Administration Finance System Planning


& Development
Director Director
Personnel Commercial Director
System Planning
Director Director
Labor & Welfare Audit Director
Procurement &
Director Contracting
Accounts

Director
Finance

ES.7 Power System Reliability in the Corporatized Environment

Reliability of power supply remains a major concern for the Government and other
stakeholders. These stakeholders seek to understand how corporatization (in particular
the establishment of HoldCo and focusing of BPDB as single buyer) can contribute to
improved power system reliability.

Reliability depends directly on two sets of activities: system control and operations, which
are conducted on the short-term time scale of real time, hours, days and weeks, and
planning procurement, construction and commissioning, which occurs over the longer
term time scale of months and years.

This report presents several recommendations regarding planning and procurement that
are intended to enhance system reliability in addition to other benefits. These
recommendations include:

• Improved performance management among operating companies,


supporting timely implementation of investment plans (Chapter 3)

• Creation of a financial planning function under HoldCo to optimize


allocation of available capex funding (Chapters 3 and 8)

• In the longer term, introduction of new modalities for sector funding


(Appendix K)

System control and operations, on the other hand, are not directly performed or affected
by HoldCo or the residual BPDB functioning as single buyer. These entities provide
commercial functions, not technical functions. They are not responsible for physical
operation of the system. More generally, corporatization is about long-term management
of the power sector, not short-term operational control of the grid system. Both are
necessary for a successful sector, and they should be mutually reinforcing.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

As noted above, system operations should be the responsibility of PGCB (which includes
the NLDC). To perform this role, generators and distributors must follow the instructions of
the NLDC. Certainly implementation of Automatic Generation Control (AGC), transmission
SCADA and distribution automation systems can help centralize system control and
ensure compliance with instructions. However, such technology is not essential for
effective NLDC control. The fundamental requirement is that generators and distributors
comply with NLDC instructions regardless of how those are delivered.

Normally the specifics of such compliance would be documented in a grid code, which
ultimately would be enforced by a regulator. Although PGCB has developed a grid code, it
has not been fully introduced and the BERC is not yet in a position to formally adopt the
code and compel compliance.

These observations and suggestions are consistent with the findings of the Fact Finding
Committee convened by Power Division to investigate the grid failures resulting Cyclone
Sidr on 16 November 2007. That report concluded that there were both technical as well
as managerial reasons for the duration and extent of the system outages resulting from
Cyclone Sidr. Technical causes included unreliability of telecommunications facilities, poor
operator controls and displays, absence of AGC and inadequate number of self-starting
units. (These inadequacies could perhaps be addressed through optimal capex allocation
as envisioned under HoldCo). Managerial causes include lack of responsiveness by some
generators to NLDC instructions, imprecise or unheeded load allocation commands to/by
distributors, as well as poor internal processes and controls within NLDC itself (including
absence of contingency plans and emergency training).

Therefore, until a grid code is formally adopted and enforced by the regulator, the Minister
of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, or the Secretary (Power) as appropriate, should
establish a grid system operations committee, chaired by the head of system operation.
The instruction establishing this committee should:

• Identify members of the committee as the heads of the all generators


(including IPPs), distributors, and the single buyer (BPDB).

• Establish the sole authority of NLDC to control the real-time operation of


the system, accountable for operational reliability.

• Mandate that that all entities connected to the transmission system must
take timely action on instructions issued by the head of system operation
regarding real-time operation of the system

• Compel members of the committee to participate in monthly system


coordination meetings chaired by NLDC, and provide information
requested by NLDC for planning system operations.

• Provide for NLDC to report member compliance to the Government


authority issuing the instruction, and outline penalties for non-compliance

System operation is but one element of the electricity value chain. Exhibit ES.12 depicts
the complete value chain.
Exhibit ES.12: The Electricity Value Chain

System Metering, Monitoring &


Load Financial Operations &
Procurement Construction Dispatch Billing & Remedial
Forecasting Planning Planning Maintenance
Collections Action

xx
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Ultimately, reliability of power supply depends upon execution of each element of this
value chain. The table in Exhibit ES.13 shows how responsibilities for performance of
each element of the chain may be allocated across the power sector entities described in
this report. The exhibit also indicates the document(s) that govern the execution of each
element of the chain. Not all of these documents have been prepared, but eventually the
sector will require the development of and adherence to these documents to guide each of
the sector entities in fulfilling its role.

Exhibit ES.13: Post-Corporatization Responsibilities across the Power Sector


Value Chain Residual
Generation PGCB (incl. Distribution
Element BPDB (Single HoldCo
(Governing document)
companies NLDC) companies
Buyer)
Load forecasting Prepare Prepares, Each prepares For operational -
(Grid Code) forecasts of ensures bottom-up forecasts:
their own consistency of, forecast for own receives
availability and and distributes service area for forecasts from
potential output day-, week- both planning PGCB
for both and month- and operational For planning
operational and ahead time scales forecasts:
planning time forecasts for consolidates,
scales system checks & ensures
operations consistency

System planning Provides Provides Plans local Formulates -


(Grid Code, generation transmission distribution system least-cost
Planning Code) inputs to plan inputs to plan systems plan

Financial Proposes Proposes Proposes Provides least- Optimizes capital


planning capital capital capital cost plan details allocation from
(HoldCo MOA / requirements for requirements requirements to HoldCo Government
AOA) plan for plan for plan across entities to
implementation implementation implementation best achieve
performance
contract targets

Procurement Procures fuel & Procures Procures Works with Establishes


(Government spares, and transmission distribution line Power Cell to procurement
procurement may procure and grid sub- materials and procure new authorization
regulations, new capacity as stations sub stations generation and levels for
Tendering Code) authorized serves as PPA subsidiaries via
separately by counterparty shareholder role
regulator &
shareholder.

Construction Constructs new Constructs Constructs new - -


(Grid Code, other generation new distribution
codes & regulations) transmission

Dispatch Follows system Performs Follows system Provides cost -


(Grid Code) operator system operator inputs to system
instructions operator role instructions operator per
through NLDC PPAs

Operations & Operates & Operates & Operates & - -


Maintenance maintains maintains maintains
(Grid Code, AOA / generation transmission distribution
MOA of entities, and NLDC
contracts & licenses)

Metering, Billing Bills Single Bills Performs retail Bills distributors & -
& Collections Buyer for power distributors for customer pays generators
(Grid Code, Supply produced transmission metering, billing for bulk power
Code) services & collections supply

xxi
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
Executive Summary…

Value Chain Residual


Generation PGCB (incl. Distribution
Element BPDB (Single HoldCo
(Governing document)
companies NLDC) companies
Buyer)
Monitoring & Internal Internal Internal Depends on Monitoring and
Remedial Actions monitoring and monitoring and monitoring and whether Single performance
(Annual: HoldCo performance performance performance Buyer establishes management of
MOA / AOA management to management management to performance SubCos in line with
Operational: meet SubCo- to meet meet SubCo- contract with HoldCo-
Grid Code, HoldCo SubCo-HoldCo HoldCo Government or Government
contracts) performance performance performance becomes SubCo performance
contract contract contract contract

xxii
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword i

Abbreviations ii

Executive Summary v

1. Introduction 1-1
1.1 Background and Objectives 1-1
1.2 Key Concepts 1-4
1.3 Prevailing Industry Structure 1-8
1.4 Prevailing BPDB Structure and Staffing 1-10
1.5 Power Sector Corporatization Experience in Bangladesh 1-12

2. Structure of the Holding Company 2-1


2.1 Criteria for Selecting a Target Structure 2-1
2.2 Legal Considerations 2-3
2.3 Structural Options for BPDB Corporatization 2-4
2.4 The Migration Path 2-11

3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment 3-1


3.1 HoldCo Activities 3-1
3.2 HoldCo Establishment 3-5
3.3 Corporate Governance 3-16
3.4 Corporate Performance Management 3-19
3.5 Summary Business Plan 3-31

4. Organizational Design 4-1


4.1 Organizational Design Principles 4-1
4.2 Organizational Structure 4-2
4.3 An Alternative HoldCo Structure 4-10
4.4 Grading Structure 4-13
4.5 Salary Structure 4-13
4.6 Staffing Plan 4-16

5. Personnel Transfer and Recruitment 5-1


5.1 Principles for Staffing HoldCo 5-1
5.2 Transfer and Recruitment Processes 5-2
5.3 Personnel Transfer & Recruitment Implementation Plan 5-3
5.4 Social Impacts 5-4

6. Human Resource Management 6-1


6.1 Conditions of Service 6-1
6.2 The HR Management Cycle 6-2

7. Training Needs Assessment 7-1


7.1 The Current Situation 7-1

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TABLE OF CONTENTS…

7.2 Key Issues With the Current Training Regime 7-2


7.3 Training Recommendations for HoldCo 7-3

8. Financial Management 8-1


8.1 Opening Balance Sheet 8-1
8.2 Financial Projections 8-2
8.3 Financial Management Processes 8-5
8.4 Divestment of Operations or Subsidiary Companies 8-8

9. Management Information System Needs 9-1


9.1 Current IT Systems in BPDB 9-1
9.2 Current IT Systems in BPDB Subsidiaries 9-6
9.3 Implications of HoldCo Functions for IT/MIS 9-7
9.4 Options for IT Delivery 9-14
9.5 IT Implementation Costs 9-19
9.6 Implementation Plan 9-22

10. The Future of BPDB 10-1


10.1 The Impact of Corporatization on BPDB Staffing 10-1
10.2 Function and Structure of BPDB as the Single Buyer 10-4
10.3 Power System Reliability in the Corporatized Environment10-6

Appendices

APPENDIX A: Terms of Reference A-1

APPENDIX B: HoldCo Memorandum of Association B-1

APPENDIX C: HoldCo Articles of Association C-1

APPENDIX D: Other Documents for HoldCo Operations D-1

APPENDIX E: Responses to BPDB Queries on Corporate


Establishment E-1

APPENDIX F: Sample Performance Contract F-1

APPENDIX G: Key Job Descriptions G-1

APPENDIX H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments H-1

APPENDIX I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities I-1

APPENDIX J: Current BPDB Subsidiary IT Systems J-1

APPENDIX K: Sample MIS Reporting Formats K-1

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TABLE OF CONTENTS…

Supplemental Appendices (bound separately)

APPENDIX A: Review of Other Bangladesh Power Sector Reports A-1

APPENDIX B: Case Studies of Electric Utility Unbundling B-1

APPENDIX C: Human Resources Manual C-1

APPENDIX D: Bonus Determination D-1

APPENDIX E: Salary Data E-1

APPENDIX F: Proposed Salary Structure F-1

APPENDIX G: Letter of Appointment G-1

APPENDIX H: Communications Plan H-1

xxv
Government of Bangladesh / ADB.1/8/08
1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

1.1.1 Sector Overview

Exhibit 1.1 summarizes key electricity generation and consumption statistics for
Bangladesh for the past several years.

Exhibit 1.1: Key Electricity Statistics

Despite economic growth averaging some 5.1% annually over the past 10 years,
Bangladesh continues to face daunting problems in the power sector, notably:

• An electrification ratio of less than 40%.

• Extensive load shedding. Load shedding sometimes approaches 1,000 MW,


equivalent to about 25% of total de-rated generation capacity in the country.

The electrification ratio can be improved by extending rural electrification, and load
shedding can be reduced by adding and rehabilitating generation capacity, and where
necessary, upgrading transmission and distribution capacity. However, these actions
require capital investment, which is not available in sufficient quantities to make major
progress in addressing these problems.

The lack of capital investment is but a symptom of more fundamental problems within the
sector. Specifically, tariffs and Government subsidies are inadequate to recover the cost
of supply. The average retail tariff is approximately US cents 5.1/kWh. Though IPPs such
as Haripur and Meghnaghat produce power for as little as 2 US cents/kWh, IPPs
represent only about one-third of total generation. The overall cost of supply is relatively
high due to high technical losses and other inefficiencies in the sector. For example, some
23% of net generation is lost through the transmission and distribution system, and state-
sector generation far less efficient than IPP generation.

1-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

The best way to obtain an overall picture of the sector’s finances is to identify the total
revenue earned from retail sales and deduct the out-of-pocket cash expenses incurred by
all entities in the process. The difference indicates the sector’s net funds available
annually to reward owners and lenders, repay debt capital and contribute towards growth.
This simple but fundamental analysis shows that the Bangladesh power sector is
insolvent. It generates insufficient cash to finance all the necessary major rehabilitation
work and needed new generation capacity let alone service its long term debt capital.

Exhibit 1.2 summarizes the sector funds flows on revenue account for FY 2005. BPDB’s
expense includes the cost of power purchased from IPPs, which, as private parties, are
outside the sector for the purpose of this analysis, which is based on revenue billed to
consumers. The resulting surplus, i.e. operating profit before depreciation and before
interest on long term debt capital (BDBI), was about Tk 4,100 million.

The book value of fixed assets in service in the


Exhibit 1.2: Sector Cash Balance
sector is over Tk 180,000 million.1 The ‘cash’
surplus of Tk 4,100 million is only 2.2 per cent of the Out-of-
Retail
value of fixed assets. Assuming an average Entity pocket
Revenue
depreciation rate of three per cent of cost and Expense
allowing a return to capital of 10 per cent of fixed M Tk
2
assets in service, the revenue requirement is BPDB 16 985 42 838
Tk 85,000 million. Actual revenue at just under DESCO 5 475 265
Tk 60,000 million leaves a shortfall of more than WZPDC 1 116 303
Tk 25,000 million.3 DESA 12 129 1 050
REB 23 246 6 733
If efficiency could be improved and tariffs and/or PGCB 593
subsidies increased, the sector would be able to APS 3 071
self-finance a greater portion of its capital needs,
and would be a creditworthy borrower with access 58 951 54 853
to private capital4. Currently it relies solely on Surplus BDBI 4 098
funding from the state budget, including funds 58 951 58 951
provided by development partners.

Exhibit 1.3 summarizes the fundamental problems of the Bangladesh power sector.

1
The depreciated replacement cost may well be more than half as much again based on
BPDB’s asset values restated to 2005.
2
This is the target return on net fixed assets used in the Financial Restructuring and
Recovery Plan (FRRP) recently adopted by GOB. This metric is commonly used by
multilateral lending agencies.
3
The only direct Government subsidy to the sector is Tk 80 million to REB. The sector is
indirectly subsidised to the extent of unpaid debt service, capital grants, and the like.
4
Although IPPs represent 27% of total nameplate capacity of 4,680 MW and 33% of total
generation, these plants have been constructed largely on the basis of sovereign
guarantees and multilateral bank partial risk guarantees rather than on the basis of the
fundamental commercial attractiveness of investing in the power sector.

1-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Exhibit 1.3: Fundamental Problems in the Bangladesh Power Sector

Root Causes Symptom Consequences

Losses & Other


Inefficiencies Low Access
T&D losses are 23% of Electrification ratio < 40%
total net generation.
State-sector generation Insufficient
relatively inefficient.
Capital Funding

Inadequate Poor Reliability


Tariffs &
Extensive load shedding due to
Subsidies estimated peak time shortfall of
Sector revenue generates operating profit some 1,000 MW
before depreciation & interest equivalent
to only 2.2% of net fixed assets.
Inadequate to maintain & expand capacity

1.1.2 The Government Response

These have been chronic problems for Bangladesh. To simply increase tariffs without
improving the efficiency of the sector would disregard the Government’s obligation to
properly manage the sector, and would be politically untenable. Conversely, simply
increasing efficiency without adjusting tariffs to ensure financial viability is unsustainable.
To be effective in the long term, any restructuring (including corporatization) must
go hand-in-hand with tariff reform. Hence, the Government vision for the sector
contains three elements that implicitly recognizes the linkage between tariffs, access,
quality of service and efficiency:

• To make electricity available to all

• To ensure reliable and quality supply of electricity

• To provide electricity at a reasonable price.

The Government has taken a comprehensive approach to achieve this vision. In 1994, the
Government issued a policy statement titled Power Sector Reforms in Bangladesh
(PSRB). The PSRB envisioned:

• Separation of regulation from operations

• Unbundling of generation, transmission and distribution

• Increased commercial orientation of the sector

• Greater private sector participation in the sector

The Government further defined the goals and means of sector reform in 2000 with its
Vision and Policy Statement. Among other things, this statement called for:

1-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

• Corporatization of state-owned operating entities in the power sector, including


BPDB

• Progressively adjusting tariffs to reflect cost of supply

More recently, the Government published Power Sector Reform Road Map in 2005, which
laid out a three-year time-bound action plan to implement policy. A principal element of the
Road Map was corporatization of BPDB as a holding company by June 2007. A number of
other assignments have been conducted over recent years to support other Government
objectives for the sector. These reports are summarized in Supplemental Appendix A.

1.1.3 Project Objectives

To assist the Government with the corporatization of BPDB as a holding company, this
ADB technical assistance project aims to:

• Formulate a design and strategy for the holding company


o Legal & commercial aspects
o Accounting & financial management
o Human resources management
o Management Information System (MIS)

• Assist with the corporatization itself, including implementation planning,


preparation of articles of association (AOA) and memorandum of association
(MOA), etc.

The complete terms of reference for the Assignment are given in Appendix A along with a
table of compliance.

1.2 KEY CONCEPTS

Over the years, Government policy in the sector has referred to three elements as noted
above:

• Unbundling

• Corporatization

• Introduction of a holding company

Each of these concepts is discussed in turn.

1.2.1 Unbundling

Unbundling is the process of breaking up a single entity into smaller ones. There are two
principal motivations to unbundle an entity:

• To improve business focus. Breaking an organization into smaller ones can help
limit the span of control to what can be (cost) effectively managed. Consequently,
unbundling is typically conducted on either a geographic basis, or along the value
chain.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

• To enhance accountability. Driving accountability is an essential aspect of power


sector reform, especially in terms of improving efficiency. As shown in Exhibit 1.4,
there are four elements that comprise accountability. Defining discrete pieces of a
business through the unbundling process facilitates clear allocation of authority,
target setting and performance measurement.

Exhibit 1.4: The Elements of Accountability

Set Measure Reward or


Empower
Expectations Performance Sanction
• Grant authority • Set targets commensurate • Report performance • Commensurate with
• Provide resources with authority against targets to relevant performance in terms of
• Implement a system to parties time and magnitude
measure performance (effective incentives)

Supplemental Appendix B provides case studies of utility unbundling from other countries.

1.2.2 Corporatization

Corporatization, in this context, is the transfer of the role of a public body to a company
established under the Companies Act 1994. The new company may remain fully state-
owned, or could accommodate any degree of private sector ownership the Government
may deem.

Corporatization enables:

• Improved accountability. Corporatization institutionalizes and helps make


transparent authority, governance and accounting to drive commercial
performance. Governance structures and processes are both stipulated by law, i.e.
the Companies Act 1994, as well as by the Articles and Memorandum of
Association. Such structures and processes are typically not adopted in a
government setting.

• Creation of a new culture. More generally, corporatization facilitates a shift from


bureaucratic to commercial orientation, and in the case of a utility, from an
engineering mindset to a business mindset. This is reflected in the new language,
behavior and processes adopted by personnel as the structural change takes
place. Ideally, the culture should shift from entitlement-based to performance-
based, where decisions are made to maximize profits rather than simply follow
regulations.

• Commercial funding. A profitable company can tap private sources of capital. This
is particularly important in Bangladesh, where the Government (in the Vision and
Policy Statement) has explicitly recognized inadequate government funding as a
major impediment to improved sector performance. Moreover, continued nearly
exclusive reliance on Government funding only keeps the sector subservient to
political, rather than commercial, interests, which has enabled abuse in the past.

• Partial privatization. As indicated above, a company can be partially privatized to


generate additional resources for government.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Specifically, corporatization is the process of moving people, relationships with outside


parties, assets & liabilities from a public body to a state-owned company to undertake the
functions previously performed by the public body. As shown in Exhibit 1.5, there are
always two entities in the corporatization process that exist for some time in parallel. It is
not possible to simply have an existing public entity become a company overnight, since it
takes time and much legal work to transfer people, contracts, assets and liabilities to the
new organization.

Moreover, if corporatization is to successfully achieve one of more of the above


objectives, it necessarily entails the development of new work processes that will result in
greater accountability, commercial orientation, etc. The design of new processes often
begins before the formal establishment of the new company, and these processes are
implemented as people, contracts assets and liabilities are transferred to the new
company, culminating in the subsequent starts operations.

The transfer of assets and liabilities is frequently referred to as the financial transfer
scheme. This will determine the opening balance sheet for the new entity. Contracts, of
course, also need to be assigned from the legacy public body to the new entity. The
transfer of people (and the acceptance of most likely new conditions of service within the
new entity) is referred to as the human resource transfer scheme. These transfers need
not necessarily happen in any particular order, but none the less must be planned in a
comprehensive manner to ensure that linkages are taken into account (e.g. settlement of
pension liabilities – a financial transfer scheme issue – as people are transferred.

Exhibit 1.5: The Corporatization Process

The Existing Entity (Public Body)


HR Transfer Scheme
Fin. Transfer Scheme

Human Resources

Wind-up
Contracts
Liabilities

Assets

New Process Development

The New Entity (State-owned Company)

Legal Time
establishment

Finally, the process of corporatization need not take place only as a complete transfer of
roles from one public entity to a single new company. Certainly that can be
accommodated but many other arrangements are possible: the roles of a public body
could be transferred to a number of new companies (e.g. as part of a process of
unbundling), or only certain roles could be transferred to a new company, while the legacy
public body retains only a subset of functions and continues to operate.

1.2.3 The Nature of a Holding Company

The Government has stipulated, and ADB agreed to support, the establishment of BPDB
as a holding company. A holding company is a company that owns other companies, i.e.
subsidiaries. A holding companies ownership is not passive, however. At a minimum, it:

1-6
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

• Provides strategic guidance and coordination for operations across the group, i.e.
the holding company together with all its subsidiaries. The aim is for the Group as
a whole to achieve better results than the companies would individually.

• Drive performance of the group companies to achieve shareholder objectives. It


does this through authorities granted it as shareholder of the subsidiaries, namely:

o It appoints subsidiaries’ directors

o It drives accountability by:

 monitoring subsidiaries’ performance

 ensuring competent internal & external audits

 reporting Group performance to HoldCo shareholders against


agreed objectives, and takes action as appropriate in its role as
shareholder of the subsidiaries to ensure targets are met.

In addition to this essential, defining function of owning subsidiaries, a holding company


can itself perform services or operations other than to support the above functions. A
holding company that only performs the core shareholding function is referred to as a non-
operating holding company, whereas one that also conducts activities in addition to those
supporting its core shareholding functions is referred to as an operating holding company.

The degree to which a holding company may function as an operating holding company
depends on several factor, which may sometimes overlap:

• Regulatory requirements. Sometimes regulators or laws may require corporate


ring-fencing between entities (e.g. that a competitive generation company and a
monopoly distribution company should not be in the same company, or that one
should not own the other), so that a holding company would own separate
subsidiaries for these businesses and each would undertake operations of its own.

• Economics of centralization vs. decentralization. In some cases it may be


advantageous to provide certain common services for all subsidiaries in the
holding company, for example finance and accounting, or IT. The holding company
would then “sell” these services to the subsidiaries.

• Feasible span of control / adequate business focus. Sometimes having a


preponderance of operations in the holding company creates an unmanageable
span of control or dilutes business focus. Too many business activities or too large
a service territory under a single entity may inhibit timely decision making or
impede effective management.

• Need for transparency. Shareholders or other stakeholders may want greater


visibility of how various parts of the business perform. Establishing subsidiaries
can create greater access to senior management, and provide a clearer picture of
operational performance in specific business or geographical areas.

• Risk management. Establishing subsidiaries for specific business can help to


insulate the risk of those activities from the broader operations of the group. The
liability of shareholders is limited to their share capital, and by establishing a

1-7
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

business as a subsidiary limits the potential risk to the rest of the group from
events that could affect that particular part of the business.

• Liquidity and access to capital. A holding company can serve as a conduit for
funds between various operating subsidiaries, and can function as a “bank” to the
rest of the companies in the group, borrowing on the strength of its balance sheet.
Alternatively, it may be possible to segregate subsidiaries by financial
performance, so that at least some operations may be able to pursue private
financing. In Bangladesh, by establishing DESCO and PGCB as financially-viable
subsidiaries, they have been able to float shares and issue bonds. That would not
have been possible if these operations had remained part of larger, loss-making
operations.

Exhibit 1.6 depicts the roles and various issues that must be resolved at each level in
setting up a state-owned holding company structure for a power utility. The following
sections of this report propose solutions to address these issues in the establishment of a
BPDB holding company.

Exhibit 1.6: Roles & Relationships in a Holding Company Structure


LEVEL ROLE ISSUES
Shareholder • Appointment, removal & composition of
• Appoints Board Board
Government • Monitors Board performance • Performance improvement mechanisms
against targets • Owner’s representative

Holding Company • Performance improvement mechanisms


• Shareholder of Subsidiaries • Operating vs. non-operating
• Insulates against government • Planning, coordination, support and
Holding Company interference Single Buyer functions
• Drives commercial performance • Financial role
• Corporate governance

Subsidiary Companies • Autonomy and boundaries of authority &


• Conduct operations responsibility
Regulator • Performance management mechanisms
• Contract with other firms
 Tariffs • Serve customers • Commercial arrangements with outside
 Codes entities
 Licenses

Other
Subsidiaries
Firms
 Contracts
 Can be other  Payments
subsidiaries  Service

Customers

1.3 PREVAILING INDUSTRY STRUCTURE

The Government of Bangladesh (GOB) plays a major role in supplying power. The state
ownership structure of the industry is shown in Exhibit 1.7. The state is involved in the
sector operations through the following entities:

• Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources (MPEMR). MPEMR sets sector
policy and controls the statutory boards with operating responsibility (BPDB, REB,
DESA) through its Power Division. The Power Cell is a separate unit established to
manage the reform program and tenders for Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

1-8
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

• The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BDPB) is a statutory authority


responsible directly or through its subsidiaries for state-owned power generation,
transmission and urban distribution outside of Greater Dhaka. It also serves as the
single buyer, functioning as off-taker for all IPPs and state generators.

• The Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) is the subsidiary of BPDB


responsible for system operation and transmission throughout Bangladesh.

• The Ashuganj Power Station Co. Ltd (APSCL) is a subsidiary of BPDB that owns and
operates 724 MW of the 3,420 MW of capacity under BDPB. It is not considered as an
IPP.

• The West Zone Power Distribution Company Ltd (WZPDCL) is responsible for
distribution in the western part of the country, while the North West Zone Power
Distribution Company Ltd (NWZPDCL) will take over distribution in the northwestern
part of the country.

• The Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Ltd (EGCB) is a subsidiary of


BPDB which will own the Siddhirganj and Haripur plants, and perhaps other
generating assets of BPDB. The North West Power Generation Company Ltd
(NWPGC) is another recently-established subsidiary will own and operate generating
assets in that part of the country.

• The Dhaka Electric Supply Authority (DESA) is a statutory authority responsible for
distribution in the greater Dhaka area. Some distribution areas of DESA were broken
out and corporatized as the Dhaka Electric Supply Company Ltd. (DESCO). DESA
itself is in the processes of being corporatized as the Dhaka Power Distribution
Company Ltd. (DPDC).

• The Rural Electrification Board (REB) is responsible for rural electrification, either
directly or through the establishment and monitoring of the 70 Palli Bidyut Samiti (PBS,
or Rural Electrification Cooperatives).

• Rural Power Company Ltd (RPCL) is an IPP established as a joint venture between 5
of the PBS and REB.

Corporatization of other parts of BDPB as subsidiaries, such as the Central and South
Zone distribution operations, is also underway.

Exhibit 1.7: State Ownership in the Bangladesh Power Sector


MPEMR

Establish &
BPDB DESA/DPDC* REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
DESCO PBS
PBS
PBS
PBS

Ashuganj West Northwest Northwest


PGCB Power Zone Zone Power EGCB Rural Power
Station Dist Dist Gen Co. Ltd.

Entities already established Existing Government * DPDC, which has been established under the Companies
under the Companies Act agency or body Act, will be the corporatized successor to DESA
1-9
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Power and financial flows are shown in Exhibit 1.8. BPDB plays a key role in the sector as
the single buyer. This exhibit also shows the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission
(BERC), which was established under the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission
Act 2003 (BERC Act) to, among other things:

• Determine tariffs throughout the entire electricity value chain

• Prepare and issue licenses

• Establish codes and standards

• Resolve disputes between licensees, as well as between licensees and consumers

The Government nonetheless retains the authority to promulgate overall sector policy. In
practice BERC has been slow to function effectively as a regulator. For example, although
BERC was established 4 years ago and despite the chronically poor condition of the
sector as described above, BERC did not issue its first retail tariff order until March 1,
2007. (That order raised tariffs 5 to 15% depending on the tariff class).

Exhibit 1.8: Industry Structure of the Bangladesh Power Sector


MPEMR
Conducts Sets sector
IPP tenders policy
Government Agencies
Generation
RPCL APSCL State-owned companies
BPDB BPDB
IPPs
IPPs
IPPs Generation EGCB
IPPs
IPPs Other Statutory Auth.

NWPGC Private IPPs

Power Flows
Issues licenses
Financial Flows
BERC

PGCB BPDB Single


Transmission Buyer

BPDB
REB DESCO
Sets tariffs, codes Distribution
& standards DESA / Consumers
IPPs
IPPs WZPDCL NWZPDCL DPDC
PBSs
Distribution

1.4 PREVAILING BPDB STRUCTURE AND STAFFING

BPDB is constituted under the leadership of a Chairman, assisted by five Members


managing 2 non-technical formations, that of Administration and Finance, and 3 technical
formations, that of Systems Planning & Development, Power Generation, and Power
Distribution. The internal organization of BPDB is shown in Exhibit 1.9. Directors and
Chief Engineers manage their respective departments and report to their respective

1-10
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Members of the Board. They are responsible not only to their respective Member but to
the Board as a whole including the Chairman.

Exhibit 1.9: Current Organizational Structure of BPDB

GOB

Chairman

Office of the Chairman

Systems Planning Power Power


Administration Finance
and Development Generation Distribution
Director of GM CE Project Planning CE Generation CE Central Zone
Personnel Commercial
Operations CE System Planning CE Ghorasol P/S CE
Director of SouthernZone
Organization and Director of
Methods CE Design and CE O&M
Audit Inspection Chittagong P/S CE North Zone
Director of
Director of CE Comilla Zone
Enquiry and CE Projects
Discipline Purchase
CE Sylhet Zone
Director of Director of
Labour and Finance CE Rangpur
Welfare Zone
Director of
Director of Estate Accounts
and Transport
CE – Chief Engineer
Chief Medical GM – General Manager
Officer

Exhibit 1.10 shows the number of sanctioned positions and actual number of employees
for principal BPDB units and subsidiaries.

1-11
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Exhibit 1.10: BPDB Personnel by Class

Staffing of Internal BPDB Units


MANPOWER DISTRIBUTION
UNIT DIVISION Sanctioned Existing Vacant
Post Manpower Post
Head Office 2284 1588 696
Total 2284 1588 696
CE Generation Dhaka 1640 1164 476
(Tongi, Bheramara, Baghabari,
Ranjpur, Fenchuganj, Barisal DPS,
Barisal GT, Syidpur DPS, Syidpur
GT, Thakurgaon DPS, Sylhet GT,
Vhola DPS, Haripur, Shahzibazar)
CE Chittagong 1708 903 805
Generation (Chittagong, Karnaphuli,
Barzmauntain, Sikalbaha)
CE Siddhirganj 660 435 225
CE Ghorasal 1184 947 237
CE Khulna 834 542 292
CE Barapukuria 276 150 126
Total 6302 4141 2161
Central Zone 2182 1669 486
Distribution North Zone 3385 2283 1102
South Zone 4280 2468 1812
Total 9847 6420 3427
26 RAOs, 4 RTCs, Kaptai
Others Academy, DTC, DD Store,
Energy Authority 1900 1800 100
Total 1540 1500 100
Grand Total 19,973 13,649 6324

Staffing of Principal BPDB Subsidiaries


Companies Sanctioned Existing Vacant Post
Post Manpower
APSCL 1047 878 169
EGCB 46 46 0
WZPDCL 4213 2841 1372
PGCB 2110 1868 242

1.5 POWER SECTOR CORPORATIZATION EXPERIENCE IN BANGLADESH

Although the concept of a holding company is new to the Bangladesh power sector, there
is considerable experience with corporatization of power sector entities. PGCB and
DESCO were legally incorporated in 1996, APSCL in 2000, and WZPDCL in 2003. These
companies began functioning one to two years after incorporation. Companies
incorporated more recently such as EGCB, NWPGC, and DPDC have yet to become
commercially operational, or are at early stages of operation.

1-12
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Experience with PGCB, DESCO and WZPDCL shows the benefits of corporatization.
PGCB and DESCO, for example, have raised equity through minority listings on the
Bangladesh Stock Exchange. Exhibit 1.11 shows the reductions in losses and
improvements in service quality that have been achieved subsequent to corporatization.

As described in Section 1.2.2, corporatization in itself does not create these benefits, but
rather when properly carried out creates the environment in which such benefits can be
realized. Corporatization is a necessary, but alone not sufficient, condition for improved
power sector performance. The remainder of this report suggests how BPDB may be
corporatized as a holding company to achieve further performance improvement.

Exhibit 1.11: Examples of Improved Performance Post-Corporatization

Transmission Losses

6%
Percent Losses

5%
4% BPDB
Transmission
3%
PGCB
2%
1%
0%
20 0
19 7
19 /8

99 9

20 1

20 2

20 3

20 4

20 5
/6
00
19 8/9
/

/
96

97

00

01

02

03

04

05
/2
9
19

Year

Transmission Interruption

1200
Hours per Year

1000
800 BPDB
Transmission
600
PGCB
400
200
0
20 0
19 7
19 /8

99 9

20 1

20 2

20 /3

20 4

20 /5
/6
00
19 8/9
/

/
96

97

00

01

02

03

04

05
/2
9
19

Year

1-13
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
1. Introduction. . .

Transmission Interruption

Incidents per Year 600


500
400 BPDB
Transmission
300
PGCB
200
100
0 20 0
19 7
19 /8

99 9

20 1

20 2

20 3

20 4

20 5
/6
00
19 8/9
/

/
96

97

00

01

02

03

04

05
/2
9
19

Year

Distribution Losses

35%
Percentage Losses

30%
25%
BPDB
20% Distribution
15% DESCO
10%
WZPDCL
5%
0%
20 0
19 7
19 /8

99 9

20 1

20 /2

20 /3

20 4

20 5
/6
00
19 8/9
/

/
96

97

00

01

02

03

04

05
/2
9
19

Year

1-14
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. STRUCTURE OF THE HOLDING COMPANY

2.1 CRITERIA FOR SELECTING A TARGET STRUCTURE

The first step in establishing a power sector holding company is to determine its target
corporate structure, i.e. the identification of the companies that make up the industry and
the shareholding relationships between them. By defining this “destination” from the
outset, the Government can then plan the restructuring journey to reach that destination
accordingly.

There are many options for a target structure. It is therefore necessary to establish
selection criteria by which these options can be compared and one ultimately selected.
Exhibit 2.1 describes the overall process used to reach a proposed target structure for the
holding company successor to BPDB. (For the remainder of this report, we refer to this
new company as “HoldCo”).

Exhibit 2.1: The Target Structure Selection Process


 Limited national budget
 Poor sector financial viability
GOB Vision & Policy Constraints to better  Limited autonomy
Statement (2000) sector performance  Lack of performance systems
 Inadequate business
differentiation

 Financial optimization
 Autonomy
Degree to which option  G,T,D differentiation
overcomes constraints Criteria for selection of  HR Availability
identified in Policy target structure  Institutionalization of accountability
 Simplicity
 Consistency with laws & policies

 No HoldCo
Operating HoldCo
Five options representing Candidates assessed 

 Non-Operating HoldCo
different final end-points against criteria  Non-Operating HoldCo with
Single Buyer separate
 Multiple HoldCos

August 6 Steering Guidance on Target


Committee Meeting structure & migration

The Government’s Vision and Policy Statement provides the starting point for the
selection process. Among other things, the Vision and Policy Statement defines five
principal constraints affecting performance of the power sector as follows:

• Scarcity of financial resources from the national budget prevents direct


Government funding of all necessary capital expenditure. This is the limited
national budget constraint.

• High losses and receivables, combined with prevailing tariffs, limit the
attractiveness of domestic and foreign investment in the sector, i.e. private sector
financial resources are scarce as well. This is the poor sector financial viability
constraint.

2-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

• Lack of autonomy and incentives for operating entities to perform better. This is the
limited autonomy constraint.

• Lack of differentiation of responsibilities for generation, transmission and


distribution, resulting in inadequate ability of management to focus on specific
corrective measures in each industry segment. This is the lack of business focus
constraint.

• Lack of appropriate accounting and operational performance management


systems across generation, transmission and distribution. This is the lack of
performance management systems constraint.

The introduction of HoldCo can address at least three of these constraints as follows:

• Financial coordination & optimization. Given the scarcity of both public and
private financing for the sector, HoldCo can help ensure that whatever limited
financial resources are available are allocated optimally across generation,
transmission and distribution parts of the business. Moreover, by establishing a
HoldCo structure that facilitates a comprehensive and strategic view of funding
needs across the sector from a commercial perspective in place of the
Government’s current project-by-project approach, the financial optimization role
can enhance the operational autonomy discussed below.

• Autonomy. HoldCo can insulate state-owned power sector operations from


Government interference. HoldCo will assume the shareholder’s authority for
operating entities in the sector, and HoldCo’s Articles and Memorandum of
Association will prescribe how Government will exercise its shareholding
authorities over HoldCo. This may involve requirements and conditions for
selection of and decision-making by the HoldCo Board of Directors, the objects
and role of the HoldCo, etc. The Government will of course remain involved in the
sector by virtue of its policy-making and funding roles, but HoldCo can take on
commercial management of the sector. In particular, greater autonomy must be
accompanied by better performance management to ensure accountability, and
HoldCo can focus on developing and applying performance management systems
while providing operating entities with the latitude and incentives to make the best
possible commercial decisions.

• G, T & D Differentiation. A HoldCo structure must balance the unbundling of


operations to improve focus on specific elements of the value chain, with creating
synergy between various parts of the business. Unbundling results in
decentralization, where as creating synergy requires some degree of centralized
control. The way HoldCo is structured and the authorities it is granted will help
determine how it can strike this balance, and promote effective business focus in
generation, transmission and distribution segments.

The degrees to which the structure of HoldCo facilitates each of these three
characteristics indicate the effectiveness of that HoldCo design in overcoming constraints
to better performance described in the Government’s Vision and Policy Statement. These
parameters can therefore serve as criteria for evaluating target HoldCo designs.

In addition, any design of HoldCo must be feasible and sustainable. Three additional
criteria have been identified accordingly:

2-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

• HR Availability. Qualified human resources are at a premium in Bangladesh. Any


HoldCo design should minimize the number of personnel required in senior
executive positions.

• Institutionalization of Accountability. Many of the mechanisms to improve


sector performance could be implemented on an ad hoc basis by Government.
However, unless such mechanisms were enshrined in law, continued application
would depend upon the disposition of the Secretary (Power) and other senior
Government officials who happen to be in power at any given time. While such a
law is unlikely, the design of HoldCo can help to institutionalize mechanisms to
drive sector performance rather than relying on the personal vision and
effectiveness of Government officials who change frequently. Perhaps the single
most important mechanism is a system to impose accountability, and the Articles
and Memorandum of Association for HoldCo can stipulate the performance
monitoring and associate functions to drive accountability across the entities it
owns.

• Simplicity. Any structural design that is adopted should avoid duplication of


function, and minimize complexity to facilitate implementation.

Finally, any HoldCo structure must comply with prevailing laws and policies, and
accommodate existing contractual arrangements with other parties such as IPPs.
Therefore, the seventh criterion for the selection of HoldCo’s target structure is
compliance with laws, policies and contracts.

2.2 LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

In assessing compliance with prevailing laws, Presidential Order 59 (PO 59) specifically
designates BPDB as responsible for system planning & system operations. It is
understood that a simple amendment was prepared to facilitate the transfer of the system
operations function to PGCB. Since HoldCo will be a different entity from BPDB, if HoldCo
were to take the system planning function a similar amendment would be required.

If HoldCo were to be an operating holding company and take on any activities that require
a license per the BERC Act, it would of course need to apply and receive the necessary
licenses. However, as with the amendment to PO 59 in the event of taking on the system
planning function, this is a straightforward requirement.

Contractual issues, particularly with respect to power purchase agreements (PPAs) may
pose more challenging issues. PPAs such as those for Haripur and Meghnaghat may be
assigned only with mutual consent, though it is specifically anticipated that an IPP may
assign to lenders or qualified operating company. BPDB may assign to any entity provided
the Government provides the same guarantees.

Therefore, the process for BPDB to assign a PPA to a new Single Buyer (whether HoldCo
or another new company performs this function) entails the following:

• The Government must decide whether it will extend the sovereign guarantee to
the new Single Buyer company. This would likely require input and agreement of
the Prime Minister’s Office, MPEMR, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Law,
et al.

2-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

• Once the Government decides to extend the guarantees, it negotiates with the
IPPs

• The IPPs in turn must obtain concurrence of their lenders

• The associated legal documents are drawn up, circulated and reviewed by all
parties

• The new company prepares for operations

• Assignment of the PPA would follow signing by both parties, and the new
company takes over the Single Buyer function.

These steps would require considerable time given the number of parties involved.
Moreover, the process could be used by IPPs as a negotiation re-opener to secure
additional concessions or benefits. While transfer of the single buyer function to a new
company as part of the corporatization process should be considered, it should probably
not be on the critical path for the overall restructuring effort. If it were, it could delay other
changes of greater potential significance.

2.3 STRUCTURAL OPTIONS FOR BPDB CORPORATIZATION

Five options spanning the entire spectrum of HoldCo configurations have been identified.
Given the numerous changes that have taken place in Bangladesh since the Terms of
Reference for the assignment were originally agreed between the Government and ADB,
options to forego a holding company altogether, and to create multiple holding companies
have been defined. Each option is discussed in turn below, and evaluated against the
criteria defined in the previous section.

The evaluation system is as follows:

 Fully meets or directly supports the criterion


 Partially meets or indirectly supports the criterion
 Slightly meets or supports the criterion
 Conflicts with the criterion

Evaluation is conducted relatively between the options rather than against some absolute
standard.

2.3.1 No Holding Company

This option is characterized by the following features:

• All existing BPDB subsidiaries are transferred to direct Government ownership.

• All existing BPDB operations are corporatized as companies directly owned by the
Government.

• The remaining (residual) part of BPDB can continue as the Single Buyer, which
can be corporatized later once PPAs can be assigned to the new entity.

The resulting structure is shown in Exhibit 2.2, and evaluation of this option against the
seven criteria is shown in Exhibit 2.3.

2-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Exhibit 2.2: The No Holding Company Option

GOB

Residual West Ashuganj DESA/DPDC REB


Support Distribution Other
BPDB (Single PGCB Zone Power EGCB
Services Buyer) Zones Generation
Dist Station
DESCO PBS

former BPDB subsidiaries & operations


New company

Exhibit 2.3: Evaluation of the No Holding Company Option

Option 1: No Holding Company


Criterion Rating Rationale
Depends upon Power Division, which may not have
Financial coordination & requisite financial, technical and commercial capacity to

optimization optimally coordinate and monitor a dozen companies on a
continuous basis
Limited insulation against Government involvement in
Autonomy  operations, as all companies are directly owned by
Government.
All functions fully unbundled, but strategic guidance on
Business focus 
commercial matters depends on Power Division
No need for holding company staff, but requires additional
HR Availability 
resources in Power Division to function properly
Institutionalization  Depends upon initiative of Power Division
Simplicity  No duplication in any function; least complex
Discrepancy from previous Government policy calling for
corporatization of BPDB as Holding Company, but
Compatibility with Laws, otherwise complies with objective to individually corporatize

Policies & Contracts operations. Corporatization of BPDB’s single buyer
function is not on the critical path to achieve this structure,
which is desirable.

This option expands the Government’s commercial management responsibilities


considerably, without any formalization of the requirements of that role. As such, this
option could be viewed as increasing Government involvement in the sector.

2.3.2 Operating Holding Company

This option in effect represents continuation of the status quo. Under this option HoldCo is
created, and all existing BPDB operations and subsidiaries are transferred to it.
Presumably HoldCo business processes, internal organization, and employee conditions
of service would differ from current BPDB practice and standards, but the corporate
structure otherwise remains unchanged. Exhibit 2.4 depicts this option, and Exhibit 2.5
evaluates it against the seven criteria.

2-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Exhibit 2.4: The Operating Holding Company Option

GOB

HoldCo DESA REB


Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
DESCO PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist New company

former BPDB subsidiaries & operations

Exhibit 2.5: Evaluation of the Operating Holding Company Option

Option 2: Operating Holding Company


Criterion Rating Rationale
Since HoldCo would remain the single buyer, it will lose
money until tariffs are rationalized. It will also have a vested
Financial coordination &
 interest to direct investment into its own operations, rather
optimization
than subsidiaries. This arrangement potential creates a
conflict of interest.
Does little to expand insulation against Government
Autonomy 
involvement in operations; maintains the status quo.
Maintains the status quo with respect to differentiation of
Business focus 
G,T,D functions.
HR Availability  No change from current staffing requirements
Independent performance monitoring role formally defined
Institutionalization  for HoldCo with respect to its subsidiaries, but many
operations remain in HoldCo itself.
HoldCo only fulfills functions that operating companies do
Simplicity  not have. This essentially represents continuation of the
status quo.
Prevailing policies call for establishment of generation,
distribution and single buyer functions as
Compatibility with Laws,
 corporatized/separate entities. Single Buyer as part of
Policies & Contracts
HoldCo requires change in law (PO 59) and assignment of
PPAs, which could compromise timeliness of the reform

The Operating Holding Company option does little to advance the objectives of the reform
process. The Government notes in its Vision and Policy Statement that “…desirable
results could not be achieved as DESA was created without addressing the fundamental
institutional deficiencies.” Similarly, this option replaces BPDB with a HoldCo design that
does not address the basic problems of the sector.

2-6
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

2.3.3 Non-Operating Holding Company

Under this option:

• A non-operating holding company (HoldCo) is established.

• All existing BPDB subsidiaries are transferred to HoldCo.

• All existing BPDB operations are corporatized as subsidiaries of HoldCo.

• The Single Buyer is established as HoldCo subsidiary from the residual BPDB
once PPAs can be assigned to the new entity.

Exhibit 2.6 depicts this target structure, and Exhibit 2.7 summarizes the evaluation of the
option.

Exhibit 2.6: The Non-Operating Holding Company Option


GOB

HoldCo DESA/DPDC REB

DESCO PBS

Single Buyer Ashuganj


Support Distribution Other
(fr. residual PGCB Power EGCB
Services BPDB) Station Zones Generation New company

former BPDB subsidiaries & operations

Exhibit 2.7: Evaluation of the Non-Operating Holding Company

Option 3: Non-Operating Holding Company


Criterion Rating Rationale
Financial coordination Provides best coordination among all options, and facilitates

& optimization optimization.
Provides a complete layer of corporate insulation between
Autonomy 
Government and operations
Provides basic commercial support, strategic guidance and
Business focus 
performance monitoring across all operating companies
HR Availability  Would require an additional Board and HoldCo staff
Institutionalization  Performance monitoring role formally defined for HoldCo
HoldCo only fulfills functions that operating companies do not
Simplicity 
have (no duplication), but would require some restructuring.
Compatibility with Depends upon assignment of PPAs to new Single Buyer
Laws, Policies &  company, which will require IPP concurrence.
Contracts

This option compares well with others, except for the dependence on corporatization of
the Single Buyer, which requires assignment of the PPAs.

2-7
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

2.3.4 Non-Operating Holding Company with Separate Single Buyer

Under this option:


• A non-operating holding company (HoldCo) is established.
• All existing BPDB subsidiaries are transferred to HoldCo.
• All existing BPDB operations are corporatized as subsidiaries of HoldCo, except
for the single buyer function.
• The residual BPDB organization remains, and continues to perform only the single
buyer function. This residual BPDB can be corporatized as a new Single Buyer
company directly owned by the Government once PPAs can be assigned.

Exhibit 2.8 depicts this target structure, and Exhibit 2.9 summarizes the evaluation.

Exhibit 2.8: The Non-Operating Holding Company with Single Buyer Separate

GOB

Residual DESA/DPDC REB


HoldCo
BPDB (Single
Buyer)
DESCO PBS

West Ashuganj
Support Distribution Other
PGCB Zone Power EGCB New company
Services Station Zones Generation
Dist

former BPDB subsidiaries & operations

Exhibit 2.9: Evaluation of the Non-Operating Holding Company with Single Buyer
Separate

Option 4: Non-Operating Holding Company with Single Buyer separate


Criterion Rating Rationale
Diminished by separation of Single Buyer, resulting in
Financial optimization
 system planning and financial coordination by unaffiliated
and coordination
entities. Depends on Power Division to drive coordination.
Provides a layer of corporate insulation between
Autonomy 
Government and operations (except for Single Buyer)
Provides basic commercial support, strategic guidance and
Business focus 
performance monitoring across all operating companies
HR Availability  Would require an additional Board and HoldCo staff
Performance monitoring role formally defined for HoldCo,
Institutionalization 
but Single Buyer excluded
HoldCo only fulfills functions that operating companies do
Simplicity 
not have, but would require some restructuring
Compatibility with Laws, Residual BPDB can function as Single Buyer, therefore can

Policies & Contracts maintain PPAs without renegotiation.

2-8
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

This option seeks to achieve the benefits of the Non-Operating Holding Company Option
without depending on assignment of PPAs to a new company. However, this benefit
comes at the expense of financial optimization and autonomy.

2.3.5 Multiple Holding Companies

Under this option, separate non-operating holding companies are established for
Generation and Distribution, which hold operating subsidiaries accordingly (including
DESCO and DESA/DPDC). PGCB is moved to direct ownership by Government, and the
residual BPDB would continue to serve as Single Buyer, which could later be corporatized
as a directly Government-owned company once PPAs can be assigned. Exhibit 2.10
shows depicts this option and Exhibit 2.11 presents the evaluation.

Exhibit 2.10: The Multiple Holding Companies Option

GOB

Residual REB
Distribution HoldCo Generation HoldCo
PGCB BPDB (Single
Buyer)
PBS

DESCO DPDC West Ashuganj


Distribution Support Other
Zone EGCB Power
Dist Zones Services Generation Station
New company

former BPDB subsidiaries & operations

Exhibit 2.11: Evaluation of the Multiple Holding Companies Option

Option 5: Multiple Holding Companies with Single Buyer & PGCB Separate
Criterion Rating Rationale
Financial optimization No corporate coordination across sector. Requires greater

and coordination coordination role by Power Division
Provides a layer of corporate insulation between Government
Autonomy 
and operations, except for Single Buyer and PGCB
Business focus  Provides focused holding companies
Requires boards and staffing for two holding companies, plus
HR availability 
greater capacity within Power Division
Performance monitoring role formally defined for holding
Institutionalization 
companies, except for PGCB and Single Buyer
Some duplication of compliance and support functions between
Simplicity  the two holding companies. Establishing & communicating
about two holding companies may be more difficult.
Compatibility with Single Buyer can maintain PPAs without renegotiation.
Laws, Policies &  However, not clear if multiple holding companies are
Contracts compatible with government policy.

2-9
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Specific generation and distribution problems faced in Bangladesh are not so


sophisticated that separate holding companies will add much additional value. More is lost
by the lack of financial coordination and optimization. As a practical matter, this would be
far more difficult to implement.

2.3.6 Evaluation Summary and Target Structure

Exhibit 2.12 summarizes the results of the evaluations.

Exhibit 2.12: Evaluation Summary


Financial Legal, Policy
Optimization Business HR Institution- &
Option &
Autonomy
focus Availability alization
Simplicity
Contractual
Coordination Compatibility

1. No Holding Company       
2. Operating HoldCo       
3. Non-Operating HoldCo       
4. Non-Operating HoldCo
      
with separate Single Buyer
5. Multiple HoldCos       

A number of observations result from this:

• Options 3, 4 and 5 all represent non-operating holding companies, and are


consistent with the vision of a lean (~40 employees) HoldCo(s), with limited, well-
defined functions and authority.

• Option 1 increases role of Government for coordination & driving performance


without institutionalizing that role, contrary to policy objective of increasing
autonomy & commercial orientation of the sector.

• Option 2 preserves the status quo.

• Options 3 and 4 enable the Government to still play a role in monitoring, planning
and funding the sector, but provide a foundation for that role to shrink over time.

• Options 3 and 4 trade-off the difficulty of assigning PPAs with coordination and
autonomy

• Option 5 over-complicates a small system, and also relies largely on the


Government for coordination and optimal commercial planning. However, it may be
suitable as a long-term target if the Government were to eventually introduce a
competitive power market.

• Option 4 can serve as an intermediate step to either Option 3 or Option 5.

Based on the above considerations, the Government advised that corporatization of


BPDB should aim for Option 4, a non-operating holding company with a separate
single buyer, as an interim target. Option 3 or Option 5 can subsequently be selected
as the ultimate long term target depending on plans to introduce competition and the
initial operating experience gained with Option 4.

2-10
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

2.4 THE MIGRATION PATH

To reach the interim target of a non-operating holding company with the single buyer
separate, there are two options for migration from the existing structure:

• Migration Option 1: First create HoldCo as an operating holding company and


transfer all people, assets, liabilities and contracts into it, then transfer operations
into subsidiaries and separate Single Buyer. This makes the Operating Holding
Company (Target Option 2 above) a transitional stage to reach the interim target.

• Migration Option 2: First create non-operating holding company, then transfer


BPDB operations as they are corporatized to become subsidiaries of HoldCo.
Residual BPDB remains the Single Buyer, which can later be corporatized.

In both cases there is a Residual BPDB and HoldCo.

Four criteria were identified as a basis for selecting between these two migration options:

• Speed. The migration path should minimize dependencies on outside events, such
as assignment of PPAs, amendment of PO 59, etc.

• Effectiveness. The migration path should contribute to the development of a


commercial culture within the new entity.

• Stakeholder Perceptions. The migration path should demonstrate “quick wins”


that can be contribute to broad support for the restructuring effort.

• Operational Risk. The migration path should minimize the likelihood of service
disruptions.

Exhibit 2.13 evaluates these two migration options against these four criteria. Green
indicates areas in which that option meets the criteria, yellow where there may be some
question, and red where it does not meet the criteria. Based on this analysis, Migration
Option 2, the establishment of a non-operating HoldCo first, appears the preferred
approach. Exhibit 2.14 shows the stages by which this migration will take place.

2-11
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Exhibit 2.13: Evaluation of Migration Options


Criterion Non-Operating Holding Co. First Operating Holding Company First
4. PPAs remain with Residual BPDB, 4. PPAs must be assigned
i.e. still functions as Single Buyer
Minimize 5. Residual BPDB can remain Single 5. PO 59 must be amended
outside Buyer
dependencies
6. HoldCo including all legacy
(speed) 6. HoldCo can be established with new BPDB operations must comply
accounting system & clean financials with Bangladesh Accounting
that comply with BAS Standards (BAS) per the
Companies Act 1994

Promote Facilitates desired culture because Depends on understanding &


commercial established on “greenfield” basis. People acceptance of new conditions of
culture transfer to HoldCo at least in part on service, and commitment of ex-BPDB
understanding & acceptance of new managers to new system
(effectiveness) culture.
Demonstrate HoldCo and new subsidiaries, if HoldCo performance will be
“quick wins” structured with clean balance sheets and compromised by inclusion of loss-
proper transfer prices, can demonstrate making operations
(stakeholder
immediate benefits
perceptions)
3. Operations are corporatized • Possibility that new systems
Minimize risk piecemeal, only when they are ready cannot be successfully rolled out
of service company-wide. Putting all eggs
disruption in one basket.
(operational 4. BPDB employees may resist the • BPDB employees less likely to
risk) change. View that healthy operations resist as they will have option to
are being established at expense of transfer en masse
BPDB.

2-12
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Exhibit 2.14: Structural Evolution of HoldCo

Stage 0: Current State Ownership Structure

 BPDB is a statutory corporation under MPEMR


 DESA is in process of being corporatized as the Dhaka Power
Distribution Company Ltd. (DPDC)

MPEMR

Establish &
BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
PBS
PBS
DESCO PBS
PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone Rural Power
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist Co. Ltd.

Entities already established Existing Government


under the Companies Act agency or body

Stage 1: Create New Holding Company


 A new holding company (HoldCo) is established under the Companies Act
1994 as a non-operating holding company.
 HoldCo will be established with clean opening balance sheets, new conditions
of service, as well as systems and processes that promote commercial
discipline and enable efficient and effective function as a holding company.

MPEMR

Establish &
New HoldCo BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation PBS
PBS
PBS
DESCO PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone Rural Power
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist Co. Ltd.

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

2-13
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Stage 2: Transfer Existing BPDB Subsidiaries

 Existing BPDB subsidiaries are transferred to HoldCo when each is


ready and transfer prerequisites are met.

MPEMR

Establish &
HoldCo BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation PBS
PBS
DESCO PBS
PBS

Ashuganj
West Zone Rural Power
PGCB Power EGCB
Station Dist Co. Ltd.

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

Stage 3: Create New Subsidiaries


 Existing core business operations of BPDB (distribution, single buyer,
generation) will be corporatized as subsidiaries of HoldCo as they are ready.
 Non-core BPDB businesses will be either (i) spun-off (ii) incorporated into
subsidiaries or (iii) corporatized as separate subsidiaries of HoldCo, e.g. a
Services Company.
MPEMR

Establish &
HoldCo BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
Single Other Dist Other
Buyer Zones Generation
DESCO PBS
PBS
PBS
PBS

Ashuganj New
New
New Rural Power
West Zone
PGCB Power EGCB Gencos Co. Ltd.
Dist Operating
Gencos
Station
Companies

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

2-14
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
2. Structure of the Holding Company. . .

Stage 4: Holding Company Complete

 Once all operations of BPDB have been migrated to the new entities
or otherwise disposed of, the residual BPDB will continue to function
as the single buyer.

MPEMR

Establish &
HoldCo Residual BPDB DESA/DPDC REB monitor
(as Single Buyer)

DESCO PBS
PBS
PBS
PBS

Support Single New New Rural Power


New New
PGCB Gencos Gencos Co. Ltd.
Services Buyer Gencos
Gencos Distcos
Gencos

Entities already established New company created at Existing Government


under the Companies Act this stage agency or body

2-15
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. HOLDING COMPANY ROLES, FUNCTIONS AND ESTABLISHMENT

3.1 HOLDCO ACTIVITIES

Section 2.4 builds the case for HoldCo to function as a non-operating holding company.
As defined in Section 1.2.3, a non-operating holding company performs the following two
functions:

• Provides strategic guidance and coordination for operations across the Group, i.e.
that the Group as a whole achieves better results than the companies would
individually. (“Group” refers to the holding company together with all its
subsidiaries). Since system planning is a single buyer function, and HoldCo will not
serve as the single buyer, it will not coordinate via the system planning process.
On the other hand, the scarcity of funding is a major constraint to better sector
performance, and consequently a premium on financial planning, particularly
allocation of capital expenditure (capex allocation). Given that the gap between the
optimal investment requirements as determined by the system plan and the
feasible investment determined by availability of funds is so large, capex allocation
is arguably the most important planning function in the sector today. HoldCo’s
principal mechanism for financial optimization ad coordination will be capex
allocation. The design and execution of this process is discussed further in Section
7.

• Drive performance of the Group to achieve shareholder objectives. It does this


through authorities granted it as shareholder of the subsidiaries, namely:

o It appoints subsidiaries’ directors

o It drives accountability by:

 monitoring subsidiaries’ performance

 ensuring competent internal & external audits

 reporting Group performance to HoldCo shareholders against


agreed objectives, and takes action as appropriate in its role as
shareholder of the subsidiaries to ensure targets are met.

To facilitate effective governance of the subsidiaries, the Articles and


Memorandum of Association specifically prescribe means and objects to achieve
greater accountability amongst the Group companies. These documents, along
with other establishment issues, are discussed below in Section 3.2. In addition,
one of the principal tools to help drive this accountability will be the use of
performance contracts at all levels of the Group. These are discussed in Section
3.3.

Exhibit 3.1 depicts in further detail how HoldCo will execute the financial planning
and performance management functions. This represents HoldCo’s value chain.
Each element is discussed below. Financial planning precedes performance
management, since the resulting capex allocation determines the resources
available to each subsidiary, and hence is an important input towards establishing
what each subsidiary is accountable for.

3-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Exhibit 3.1: The HoldCo Value Chain

Financial Planning Performance Management

Negotiate Negotiate Establish


Determine Monitor & Assist with
Understand Allocate GOB Subsidiary HoldCo
Available Report Remedial
System Plan Capital Performance Performance Personnel
Funding Performance Actions
Contract Contracts Targets

Financial Planning Activities

• Understand System Plan. The Single Buyer (the residual BPDB, at least initially)
will be responsible for the development of a system plan. Such plans are
developed on the basis of minimizing the costs of developing and operating the
power system subject to meeting demand at some level of reliability. System plans
are therefore optimal, but because they do not take into account financing
constraints, may not be feasible. Nonetheless, to determine which projects should
receive financing when financing is scarce, it is essential to fully understand the
dependencies implicit in the system plan. For example, investments in the least
cost generation expansion plan might only make sense if accompanied by
investments in transmission. The first step in financial planning is therefore to
understand the optimal configuration of the system suggested by the system plan,
and the inherent dependencies between various elements of the plan.

• Determine Available Funding. Regardless of what the system plan prescribes,


what actually gets built will depend on which components of the plan are funded.
During this activity, HoldCo will determine how much funding is available. Until
funding of the sector is commercialized further, with the Government providing
equity and debt to the Group untied to particular projects, HoldCo will need to
assess how available funding is tied to specific projects. This is discussed further
in Section 8.

• Allocate Capital. Once HoldCo understands the system plan and has determined
how much funding is available (and for what projects, if any of it is tied), it will need
to allocate the available capital amongst the subsidiaries. This would typically
entail screening candidate projects on the basis of return on investment, taking into
account any tied funding and technical dependencies between projects.

Performance Management Activities

• Negotiate GOB Performance Contract. Once HoldCo knows the capital


resources the Group will receive, it will discuss, agree and document its
performance targets with Government. (Though Government is the shareholder of
HoldCo and therefore retains full authority over HoldCo, we describe this process
as a “negotiation” as it is anticipated that Government and HoldCo will jointly agree
on the targets). It is expected that this activity will take place during a relatively
intensive period each year, rather than involve continuous activity. The resulting
GOB-HoldCo performance contract will note the resources received, the
measurable targets to be achieve, how performance will be monitored and
reported, and the rewards or sanctions that will apply depending upon
performance against target. The performance contract must include all of these
elements to ensure accountability, as described in Section 1.2.1.

3-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

• Negotiate Subsidiary Performance Contracts. The terms of the GOB-HoldCo


will flow down to the HoldCo-Subsidiary performance contracts, which will be
structured and “negotiated” in a similar manner.

• Establish HoldCo Personnel Targets. Once HoldCo has fully documented the
targets and resources granted each Group company, it will establish performance
targets for its own personnel to align with relevant corporate targets.

• Monitor and Report Performance. Over the course of the year, HoldCo will
monitor the performance of each subsidiary, itself, and the Group as a whole, and
report these results to stakeholders on a regular basis as agreed with the
Government.

• Assist with Remedial Actions. When performance of a subsidiary falls below


target, HoldCo as shareholder must take action to help improve that performance.
In the most extreme case, that action would include replacing the Board of the
under-performing subsidiary. However, it is hoped that HoldCo can also take pre-
emptive actions that will avoid such steps. In particular, HoldCo will have visibility
over all operations of the Group. It may find that where one subsidiary is failing,
another is improving. As a result, HoldCo can help mobilize and direct assistance
to underperforming subsidiaries to help them improve.

In addition to the core activities described above, HoldCo will also need to perform
supporting activities in the areas of:

• Legal services. Not only will HoldCo have its own legal issues to look after, but as
part of its performance management mandate will ensure that subsidiaries are also
in compliance with applicable regulations.

• Information Technology (IT). Section 9 discusses management information system


(MIS) needs in detail. IT will provide the platform on which an MIS can be installed
and maintained. An effective MIS will be key for timely and accurate performance
monitoring and reporting.

• Human Resources (HR). HoldCo will need to manage its own HR, as described in
detail in Sections 5, 6 and 7. In addition, it will have a policy function for the Group.

Another supporting function that could have been included is Stakeholder Management,
e.g. investor relations, public relations, regulatory interaction, advertising/branding, etc.
However, these functions are more appropriately lodged with the subsidiaries as they are
responsible for interaction with all stakeholders except the Government shareholder, as
suggested in Exhibit 1.6.

More generally, given that several subsidiaries have already been created under BPDB
and some of these have already established their own supporting systems, it appears
more practical for HoldCo to take strategic oversight of support functions across the Group
companies, rather than deliver these services on a centralized basis.

Exhibit 3.2 summarizes the above discussion, and provides an overview of HoldCo
functions. Details on the specific functions proposed for each activity area are provided
elsewhere in the report. Unlike the other functions, the financial coordination role is
expected to evolve over time as Government funding of the sector moves from project-

3-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

based to corporate-based financing. In general, HoldCo will function more as a financial


manager rather than as a utility performing technical functions, like BPDB currently.

Exhibit 3.2: HoldCo Functions

Near Term Long Term


Financial Coordination – Capex Screening. Financial Coordination – Corporate
• Develop a coordination process for subsidiaries to Finance.
provide inputs to system planner and to prepare • Negotiate with Government through
capex plans in a standard format. Power Division to secure block grant.
• Compile all government-financed capex plans from • Compile all government-financed
subsidiaries. capex plans from subsidiaries.
• Review plans against system plan and ensure • Review plans against system plan
consistency. Assess linkages & prerequisites for and ensure consistency. Assess
each capex proposal. linkages/prerequisites for each capex
• Screen plans based on financial returns & other KPI proposal.
impacts, as well as on dependency/linkage with • Screen plans based on financial
other operations or investment. returns and dependency/linkage with
• Present integrated plan to Power Division for review other operations or investment.
and forwarding to Planning Commission. • Determine how block grant to be
• Represent all operating companies in project public allocated and delivered to
financing matters with Power Division & Planning subsidiaries (e.g. debt, equity) taking
Commission. into account approved projects
• Adjust capex plans based on final approval from • Consider introduction of a Group
Planning Commission. Treasury function
Performance monitoring.
• Agree with Government on HoldCo KPIs.
• Develop/agree with Government on HoldCo performance contract.
• Agree with subsidiaries on subsidiary KPIs.
• Develop/agree with subsidiaries on their performance contracts.
• Define information requirements from subsidiaries and mode of delivery.
• Conduct internal audits of subsidiaries as appropriate.
• Report monitoring results to Government on agreed schedule.
• Review monitoring results with subsidiaries on agreed schedule.
• Take actions with respect to approval of subsidiary director bonus and/or replacement.
Legal Compliance. HoldCo to ensure that subsidiaries are aware of and complying with all
health, safety, environmental, labor, tax, establishment, accounting and industry regulations.
Information Technology. HoldCo to:
• Define & establish system for delivery & reporting of subsidiary performance & compliance.
• Define & establish system for compilation and reporting of HoldCo performance & compliance.
• Establish IT Principles governing all subsidiaries.
• Monitor compliance/implementation of those principles, and report findings to HoldCo Board.
• Determine relative IT investment priorities among subsidiaries.
• Develop and support HoldCo IT systems.
Human Resources. HoldCo to:
• Conduct search for subsidiary directors
• Define/negotiate terms & conditions of subsidiary director appointments.
• Establish HR management principles for subsidiaries.
• Monitor compliance/implementation of those principles, and report findings to HoldCo Board.
• Manage HoldCo personnel
Stakeholder Management. (e.g. investor relations, public relations, advertising/branding, etc.)
No function anticipated.

3-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

It is also useful to highlight activities and functions that HoldCo will not undertake:

• It will not be directly involved in the physical deliver of power or party to the
associated commercial transactions. It is a business organization
functioning as a shareholder, not a technical organization functioning as an
operator.

• As a corollary to the above, it will not be involved in generation dispatch or


system operations, though it may participate as an observer in monthly
system operation coordination meetings between generators, PGCB
(including the National Load Dispatch Center, NLDC) and BPDB single
buyer. NLDC should be responsible for system dispatch.

• It will not direct the day-to-day operations of its subsidiaries.

• It will not control or conduct the back-office operations of its subsidiaries,


for example:

 it will not recruit or manage personnel employed by the subsidiaries


(except to the extent that it is permitted to supervise senior
management in its role as shareholder, and to the extent that
HoldCo personnel may sit on the boards of the subsidiaries)

 It will not carry out accounting or provide IT systems for the


subsidiaries.

3.2 HOLDCO ESTABLISHMENT

Establishing HoldCo entails the following major steps:


1. Incorporation of HoldCo and provision of capital
2. Appointment of directors
3. Appointment of managing director
4. Acquisition of premises and initial assets
5. Employment of staff
6. Acquisition of shares in power companies

Each of these steps is discussed below in turn, followed by a discussion of the need to
assign contracts to HoldCo and treatment of Government obligations under loan
agreements and sovereign guarantees.

There are little or no fixed assets, receivables, employment liabilities, or debt capital to be
transferred to be transferred to HoldCo since it is a non-operating holding company. The
valuation and transfer of such items, and the creation of corresponding opening balance
sheets, are typically referred to as a financial transfer scheme. In the case of HoldCo, the
financial transfer scheme consists simply of the initial capitalization of the company and
the acquisition of shares in power companies as part of items (1) and (6) above.

3-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

3.2.1 Incorporation of HoldCo and Provision of Capital

Under prevailing law, the capital structure of HoldCo requires that it be formed as a public
limited company5. A public limited company must have a minimum of 7 shareholders, and
as such 7 subscribers to the memorandum and articles of association.

HoldCo is brought into legal existence on issuance of a certificate of incorporation by the


Registrar of joint Stock Companies & Firms following lodgment of the completed
memorandum and articles of association. These documents have been prepared taking
into account the expected role and activities of HoldCo as described above.

The Memorandum of Association (MOA) describes the objects of HoldCo, i.e. its principal
purposes and functions. The Articles of Association (AOA) on the other hand describe the
shareholding and governance of the company. These documents have been prepared
taking into account the expected role and activities of HoldCo as described above.
Appendix B contains the proposed MOA, and Appendix C the proposed AOA. A list of
other documentation, licenses, registrations, permits and approvals required to
operationalize HoldCo is given in Appendix D. Appendix E provides responses to specific
queries and comments received from BPDB pertaining to company establishment issues.

The capital of the company is to be Tk 150,000 million divided into 150 million shares of
Tk 1,000 each (see Section 3.5.6). Apart from qualifying shares to be held by the directors
(in trust for the Government), the remaining shares will be unallocated at time of
incorporation.

Government will subscribe and pay for Tk 15 million initial capital to permit the company to
commence operations and to tide it over until it receives dividend income from SubCos.

3.2.2 Appointment of Directors

The subscribers to the memorandum for the purposes of getting the company
incorporated become the first directors of HoldCo. Since HoldCo is wholly state-owned,
these subscribers, and hence the initial directors, will be Government officials.

This is only a temporary arrangement. HoldCo directors will be appointed on the basis of
their professional qualifications, regardless of whether they come from Government or
elsewhere. Therefore, while the process for incorporation is proceeding, Government is to
appoint a Search committee the sole task of which is to prepare and maintain a long list of
potential candidates from which nominees for the first elected Board (and subsequent
additional or replacement directors) will be selected.

The Search committee will comprise representatives of the state and various prominent
institutions or their nominees:
• a Government representative;
• the President of the Institution of Engineers;
• the Vice-Chancellor of BUET;
• the President of the Bangladesh Institute of Chartered Accountants; and

5
Securities and Exchange Commission Notification No. SEC/CMRRCD/2006-159/Admin-03/23
dated 8 February 2006

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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

• the President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce


and Industries.

The committee should be assisted in its search and evaluation of candidates by


professional executive search consultants.

Government will indicate its choice of future directors from the list provided to it by the
Search committee. The initial directors will, as soon as practicable after receipt of the
Government’s choices, convene a special General Meeting at which they will elect the
nominees and immediately following tender their resignations so that the number of
directors remains within the limits in the Articles.

Those directors in turn will be responsible for electing a Chairman from among their
number, and selecting and appointing a chief executive to be appointed to the position of
Managing Director. They will be responsible on a continuing basis:

• Approving the appointment of the MD’s immediate subordinates

• Appointing directors to subsidiary companies’ (SubCos’) boards

• Appointing new directors from the current long list–should any become
necessary or desirable in the best interests of the company–to hold office until
the General Meeting next following appointment, at which time their
appointments will be subject to shareholder scrutiny and vote.

SubCos’ boards will have similar responsibilities with respect to their companies, except
that the appointment of new directors to SubCos will always be the responsibility of
HoldCo’s Board.

The articles provide a term of three years for each director, who may be re-elected for not
more than three consecutive terms. They also provide that one third of their number shall
retire each year in rotation.

Provided that directors are not employees of HoldCo or SubCos or employed by or have
an interest in major suppliers they will be deemed to be ‘independent’ within the meaning
of the Security and Exchange Commissions (SEC’s) Notification regarding corporate
governance.6

3.2.3 Appointment of Managing Director

Following a search with professional assistance for suitable candidates to be evaluated


against job and man specifications, the Board will appoint a chief executive officer who will
be a director of HoldCo pari passu with those named in the Memorandum or subsequently
elected and carry the title of President and CEO. (The AOA, per standard convention,
refers to the Managing Director (MD). This convention is used in the rest of this section).

The Board will enter into a suitable employment contract with the MD for a period not
exceeding five years.

6
Notification dated 20th February, 2006: No. SEC/CMRRCD/2006-158/Admin/02-08.

3-7
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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Several of the existing BPDB subsidiaries have issued powers of attorney (POA) to their
respective managing directors to enable them to carry out certain activities in the day-to-
day running of the companies. POAs must be spelt out very carefully to give all necessary
powers yet not to mislead third parties as to the extent and scope of the powers. In case
such a POA include dealings with real property, it must contain in a schedule the specific
description of the property, and be registered. Any revocation of a registered POA also
has to be by way of a registered deed.

However, standard corporate practice is to provide the powers and authorities required by
a managing director to run the day-to-day affairs of a company in the AOA of the company
itself. The AOA presented in Appendix C for HoldCo take this approach:

• the control of the Company shall be vested in the Directors and the
business of the Company shall be managed by the Directors.

• subject to overall control and supervision of the Board of Directors, the


business and affairs of the Company shall be managed by the Managing
Director who shall exercise such powers and responsibilities which may
from time to time be delegated to him by the Directors.

The delegation of authority may be general in nature and made by a board resolution. In
addition, the AOA spell out several authorities automatically delegated to the Managing
Director. This approach removes the necessity of providing POAs to each succeeding
managing director, and revoking them after the end of service of each managing director.

3.2.4 Acquisition of Premises and Initial Assets

The MD, in consultation with the Board, will secure suitable premises for HoldCo and its
staff and other necessary assets, including office furniture and fittings, vehicles, computer
services, etc.

3.2.5 Employment of Staff

The MD will be responsible for confirming the positions to be filled in HoldCo and for
recommending to the Board suitable appointees to immediately subordinate positions The
MD will be solely responsible for appointments to all other positions. Chapter 5 discusses
transfer and recruitment of personnel in detail.

3.2.6 Acquisition of Shares in Power Companies

The MD will proceed as soon as possible to cause HoldCo to acquire the shares in all
Government power companies that are to become subsidiary companies and to have
HoldCo shares issued by way of consideration.

Ideally, he should ensure that the following conditions are met before any company is
acquired:
• Profitability of the company is at or near the level projected in the FRRP
• The company’s debt service and trade purchase payments are up to date
• The ability to provide financial information in the detail necessary for
consolidation in Group financial statements has been established
• An adequate and effective management structure exists.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

As a practical matter it may be difficult to fulfill the first two conditions by the target date.
The Government may wish to proceed with the transfer of subsidiaries to HoldCo before
these conditions are met, but targets in the relevant Performance Contracts should be
modified accordingly.

The principal steps in transferring investment assets to HoldCo are:

a. Establish present legal owners of SubCo shares

b. Establish transfer value of HoldCo shares to be issued in consideration of purchase:


• Make transfers as at the day next after the date of the latest audited
financial statements
• the beneficial ownership of shares is unchanged by transfer and the
simplest approach should be used, i.e., except for PGCB, net asset value
as shown in the companies’ latest audited financial statements–this
avoids issues of goodwill/ill will, which latter may exist at present given
the level of sector unprofitability
• For PGCB shares market value should be used

c. Secure agreement of vendor’s and purchaser’s representatives; prepare and


execute share transfers, pay stamp duty7

d. Check if any third party approvals are required or if the transaction has to be
notified to any body; if so, comply accordingly8

e. Have the name of HoldCo entered in the registers of members of SubCos as a


shareholder, following Board approval

f. Establish in HoldCo an asset (investment) register and record transactions in it

g. Within 60 days of appointment, prepare transfers of qualification shares to each


proposed director of HoldCo together with accompanying declarations that the said
shares are held in trust in favor of the owner; prepare also blank signed transfers
from each director to be held for completion on his/her ceasing to be a director.

The shares of existing subsidiary companies of BPDB are to be transferred to HoldCo by


following the procedures laid down in the relevant Articles of the Articles of Association of
the companies concerned and Section 38 of the Companies Act, 1994. Exhibit 3.3
provides a detailed list of necessary actions and sequence for carrying them out.

7
The Stamp Act 1899 provides that an instrument of transfer of shares in a company shall be
stamped with adhesive stamps to the amount of 1.5% of the value of the consideration for the
transfer, unless the shares are of a company listed in a stock exchange, in which case no
stamp duty is chargeable. The contracting parties may agree in the contract as to who will bear
the expense of the stamp duty, and in the absence of such agreement, in the case of such a
transfer the stamp duty would be borne by both parties equally. By an order made under
Section 9 of the Stamp Act 1899 and published in the official Gazette, the Government may
reduce or remit in the whole or in part the stamp duties on the instrument of transfer.
8
Although the constitution of HoldCo prohibits the reduction of the Government’s interest below
51 per cent, there is no such provision in existing SubCos.

3-9
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

To ensure that the shares in the existing qualifying subsidiaries of BPDB are registered in
the name of HoldCo by 1 July 2009, the Company Secretary of BPDB should commence
the transfer process as soon as financial statements for the preceding financial year are
available

Review of the MOA and AOA of the existing BPDB subsidiaries listed below indicates that
no amendments are required for the transfer of shares in the subsidiaries by BPDB to
HoldCo:

• West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited

• Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Limited

• Ashuganj Power Station Company Limited

• Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Limited (PGCB)

• North West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited

• Dhaka Electric Supply Company Limited (DESCO) (This AOA was


reviewed but is no longer considered as a candidate for transfer to HoldCo
at this time).

However, several of the subsidiaries have articles in their respective AOA detailing the
composition of the Board of Directors. These articles may need to be amended to provide
for HoldCo to nominate [majority] directors on to the Board of each subsidiary, thereby
providing shareholder control through Board composition. Currently, these articles
typically provide for the Government to nominate all or a majority of directors, or for some
directors to be selected from among designated fields of occupation or expertise. A list of
these articles is given in Exhibit 3.4.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Exhibit 3.3: Steps for Transfer of SubCo Shares to HoldCo


1. An application is to be submitted to SubCo by the transferor or the transferee (HoldCo) for
the registration of the transfer of shares in SubCo. (Section 38(1) CA 1994)
2. An instrument of transfer of shares in SubCo is to be submitted to SubCo at its registered
office, which should contain the following: (Section 38 CA 1994)
a. The instrument of transfer of shares should be in any of the following forms:
i. Regulation 19, Schedule I, CA 1994; or
ii. Form 117 (generally used in Bangladesh for transfer of shares); or
iii. in any other similar form approved by the BoD.
9
b. Stamp duty at the rate of 1.5% of the value of the consideration (price) of the
transfer of shares, as stated in the instrument of transfer of shares. The payment
of stamp duty is generally evidenced by the affixation of adhesive stamps,
10
cancelled (by signature and name of the transferor, and lines, across the
stamps), before or at the time of signing the instrument of transfer of shares.
c. The instrument of transfer of shares should be completed and signed by the
transferor and transferee.
d. The original share certificates evidencing the shares to be transferred are to
accompany the instrument of transfer of shares. (Section 38(3) CA 1994)
e. Payment of a fee prescribed by the BoD for the transfer of shares in SubCo.
3. The transfer of shares is to be approved by a resolution passed at a meeting of the BoD,
which is to observe and comply with the following:
a. Verify completion of all formalities mentioned in paragraph 2 above.
b. If SubCo is a private limited company, ensure that the transfer does not result in
the number of shareholders of SubCo exceeding fifty (50) in number, which is the
maximum number of shareholders allowed by the Companies Act, 1994 for a
private company. (Section 2(q) CA 1994)
c. Ensure that there is no violation of the AoA, dealing with transfers of shares in
SubCo.
d. Ensure that the transferor and transferee are competent to contract, e.g. neither is
a minor or otherwise incapacitated from entering into contracts.
4. If the transfer of shares is compliant with applicable laws and the AoA, and approved by
the BoD, SubCo shall enter the name of the transferee and details of the transfer, in the
SubCo Register of Members and Register of Transfer of Shares. After entry of the name of
the transferee in the Register of Members, the transferee becomes a shareholder of
SubCo. (Section 32(2) CA 1994)
5. No filings are required with the RJSC, except that when the annual return of the SubCo is
filed after the holding of its annual general meeting, the change in shareholding will be
reflected in the annual return.
6. It may be noted that for the transfer of the shares held by a director of a company, the prior
permission of lending banks is required, under the Bank Companies Act, 1991.

9
Article 62(a) Stamp Act 1899 (SA 1899), as amended by the Finance Act 1998.
10
Section 12, SA 1899.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Exhibit 3.4: Subsidiary Articles Relating to Board Composition and Requiring


Amendment

Subsidiary Articles Requiring Amendment

Ashuganj Power No articles requiring amendment.


Station Company
Limited

Dhaka Electric “73. Until otherwise determined by the Company in general


Supply Company meeting the number of Directors shall be 9 (nine), out of which 3
Ltd (DESCO) (three) from Shareholders of the Company, 3 (three) shall be
person representing consumer or professional interest and 3
(three) from Ex-officio of DESCO, i.e. Managing Director,
Director (Technical) and Director (Finance).”

Electricity No articles requiring amendment.


Generation
Company of
Bangladesh Limited

North West Zone “72. (i) Until otherwise determined by the Company in General
Power Distribution Meeting the number of directors shall be not less then 4 (four)
Company Limited and not more than 12 (twelve) excluding the Managing Director.
The Managing Director shall be the ex officio member of the
Board of Directors.

(ii) As long as the Government holds 100 percent/majority


shares in the company, the Directors including the chairman of
the Board shall be appointed by the Government.

(iii) Any Director including the Chairman of the Board may be


removed from office by the Company in General Meeting at the
option of the Government; otherwise no Director be liable to
rotation or retirement.

(iv) Any vacancy in the office of Director shall be filled in from the
nominees of the Government.

(v) A Director need not be a member of the Company when


nominated by the Government.

73.(v) The Government shall nominate a person from amongst


the members of the Directors to act as Chairman of the Board
who will preside over General Meetings.

(vii) The Board of Directors shall be appointed by the members


(Subscribers) in a general meeting as soon as majority shares in

11
The meaning of this provision is not clear. The Subscribers would have all the shares of the
company. Who would sell what shares to whom for this article to come into operation?

3-12
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

the Company are sold to the subscribers11. Until new Directors


are so appointed by the subscribers (shareholders), the first
Board of Directors of the Company shall be constituted as
follows: ….”

Power Grid “33. Until otherwise determined by the Company in General


Company of Meeting the number of Directors shall be not less than 4 (Four)
Bangladesh Limited and not more that (sic) 12 (Twelve) including ex-officio directors.
(PGCB) Not more than 4 (Four) persons representing professional
institutes, consumer associations and chamber bodies shall be
appointed as Directors of the company. They may be the Head
of such institutes, associations and bodies or properly nominated
representatives. They shall have the right to vote in a Board
Meeting. Not more than three Directors shall be serving or
retired personnel of the government or its agencies other than
ex-officio Directors.

34.(i) The Board of Directors shall be appointed by the


Members. Till the time the new Directors are appointed the
subscribers and the representatives of professional institute,
consumer association and chamber body and the ex-officio
directors shall be deemed to be Directors of the Company. …

(iii) The Managing Director, and other Directors including


Director (Finance) and Director (Technical) of the Company,
nominated by the Government and they need not themselves
hold any qualification shares in their own name. They shall be
ex-officio members of the Board of Directors and shall have the
right to vote in a Board Meeting.”

West Zone Power “72. Until otherwise determined by the Company in General
Distribution Meeting the minimum 3 (three) and maximum 12 (twelve)
Company Limited number of Directors, out of which 6 (six) from Subscribers12 of
the Company, 3 (three) shall be person representing consumer
or professional interest and 3 (three) from Ex-officio of WEST
ZONE POWER DISTRIBUTION COMPANY LIMITED i.e.
Managing Director, Director (Technical) and Director (Finance).”

An instruction13 was issued by the Power Division, Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral
Resources on 15.11.07 in relation to the boards of directors of state-owned companies
formed in the power sector. That instruction stipulates the following. All power sector
companies were asked to amend their memoranda and articles of association to give
effect to the instruction:

i) The Secretary, Power Division, would not be chairman of any board of


directors. The Secretary to any other ministry/division, a retired secretary or an
eminent citizen shall be the chairman of the board of directors.

12
The word “Shareholders” overwritten by hand.
13
Memo No.BiJaKhoSho/BiBi/Pro:-2/2Bi-1/2007/668

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

ii) The necessary14 number of representatives from shareholders will be included


in the board of directors. Officials representing the Power Division will take part
in the decision-making process of companies within their subject area.15

iii) No official of the Power Division or its agencies shall be on the board of
directors of more than 2 companies.

iv) No executive officer other than the managing director of a company shall be
permitted to be on the board of directors.

v) A person with expertise in the relevant subject (generation, transmission,


distribution) shall be included in the board of directors.

vi) A consumer representative shall be included in the board of directors.

vii) A representative of the business community shall be included in the board of


directors.

viii) An expert on financial matters shall be included in the Board of directors.

ix) In order to ensure the accountability of state-owned companies, the no-


objection of the Power Division shall have to be obtained in matters concerning
the appointment, extension of contract, removal etc of the chief executive
officer (managing director).

x) No meeting of the board of directors will be held without the presence of a


majority of members.

xi) The Director (Finance) and Director (Technical) of the companies, even though
not members of the board, shall be present at all its meetings.

3.2.7 Assigning Contracts to HoldCo

Since HoldCo will not be an operating company, it will not be necessary to assign PPAs,
fuel supply agreements, or other trading contracts from existing BPDB operations. The
principal agreements necessary for the day-to-day operation and management of HoldCo
may include:

• employment contracts with employees;

• service contracts for maintenance of offices, security etc;

• supply contracts for stores including stationary etc.

• supply arrangements and contracts for gas and other fuel for purposes
other than generating electricity;

14
The number is not specified, and may be determined on a case to case basis.
15
This provision is not clear. It may relate to the subject areas of generation, transmission and
distribution.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

• service contracts for technical support such as information systems;

• transport and travel service contracts;

• insurance contracts for employee and third party accident and injury.

• contracts for lease of premises.

These are largely expected to be new contracts, though in certain cases they could be
assigned by BPDB to HoldCo.

3.2.8 Government Obligations under Loan Agreements and Sovereign


Guarantees

The Government of Bangladesh has entered into several loan and other financing
agreements with various multilateral and bilateral donors and lenders such as the World
Bank and the ADB in respect of BPDB, its various plants and operations. Some of these
loan agreements are specific to individual power stations. Some are accompanied by
subsidiary loan agreements, whereby the Government has re-lent the borrowed funds to
BPDB.

Standard terms in World Bank and ADB loan agreements provide, for example, that BPDB
cannot sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any of its assets without the prior approval of
the lender, be it World Bank or ADB. Moreover, BPDB is usually prohibited from assigning
any rights or obligations under any subsidiary loan agreement in relation to any of the loan
agreements, without the approval of the lender. Some of these loan agreements may have
sovereign guarantees attached to them. They may also have terms and conditions
prohibiting or restricting the amendment of the constitutional documents of BPDB and/or
its restructuring.

These provisions would restrict the right of BPDB to transfer relevant assets as it is
unbundled. Further, there may be similar clauses in any or all the other existing loan
agreements to which the Government and/or BPDB are a party, and any transfer of assets
or liabilities, or restructuring envisaged in this corporatization project could trigger off a
default in such loan agreements, which in turn may trigger off cross-default clauses in any
or all of these loan agreements. Each of these loan agreements would have to be
reviewed for such express or implied bars on the envisaged restructuring, and transfers of
assets and liabilities of BPDB.

It is expected that no loans or other financial obligations will be assigned to HoldCo, since
HoldCo will be a non-operating company. Rather, existing BPDB loans and obligations will
be transferred to the relevant operating company that is spun off from BPDB. In some
cases it may not be possible to identify a single new operating company to which a given
loan or obligation should be transferred. In such cases, the liability should be allocated
among operating entities following a clear rationale, e.g. proportionally to the assets
transferred. Even so, it is not expected that HoldCo will be involved in any such transfers.
On the other hand, this will remain an issue for the establishment of new HoldCo
subsidiaries from BPDB operations.

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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

3.3 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

3.3.1 Basic Requirements

Following several major enquiries and legislative decisions in various countries over the
last 20 years the need for specific actions, policies and disclosures by companies in the
interest of investors and participants in the capital markets has been well defined. The
Bangladesh Enterprise Institute published in April 2004 The Code of Corporate
Governance for Bangladesh. In December 2005 the SE Asian Association of Accountants
published Best Practices on Corporate Governance. It incorporated ideas and
contributions from member Institutes including the Institute of Chartered Accountants in
Bangladesh. The OECD has also published a code of practice.

The minimum for companies’ Codes of Corporate Governance in Bangladesh has been
specified by the Securities & Exchange Commission.16 The Notification sets out certain
conditions that are to be included in each company’s code on a ‘comply or explain’ basis.
The principal requirements are:
• The size of boards of directors should lie between 5 and 20
• Independent directors should number at least 10 per cent of the total with
a minimum of one
• The positions of Chairman and CEO should, preferably, not be held by
the same person
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Head of Internal Audit and Company
Secretary should have defined responsibilities; the CFO and Secretary
should attend Board meetings.
• The Directors’ Annual Report to shareholders should include statements
concerning the fairness and the bases of the presentation of the
company’s affairs in the financial statements, the adequacy of the books
of account and internal control processes; the ability of the company to
meet its debts; disclosures on major plans, prospects and risks; three
years’ performance data; details of directors’ shareholdings and meeting
attendance; the voting interest of holders of per cent of shares or more;
the reasons for not declaring a dividend; and explanations of non-
compliance with conditions of the Notification.
• Audit and Risk Management committees should be established with
specified minimum obligations, including reporting to the SEC of failure to
rectify shortcomings or inadequacies relating to conflicts of interest,
internal control systems; infringements of relevant laws; anything having a
material impact on the company. The external and group internal auditors
should report to this committee.17

External/statutory auditors should be barred from providing certain services, e.g.,


appraisal, IT systems, bookkeeping and internal audit.

16
Notification Dated the 20th February, 2006 No. SEC/CMRRCD/2006-158/Admin/02-08,
17
We recommend that HoldCo should have one committee covering both audit and risk issues.

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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

3.3.2 Additional Recommendations for HoldCo

Considering the nature and situation of the BPDB Group and the need to secure uniform
policies and action on key issues such as capital works, funding, and the need to prepare
consolidated accounts, certain other Board committees should be established:
• Finance & planning
• Information technology
• Human resources, nomination and remuneration
• Technical

The roles and responsibilities of the Board collectively, directors severally, and the
committees established to assist the Board in its work need to be set out in manuals.
Amongst other things, the extent to which the Board reserves to itself or limits the exercise
of powers assigned to the MD in the Articles of Association need to be spelled out very
clearly. The Board manual should also set out the desirable composition of the Board in
terms of skills and resources, procedures for identifying candidate directors and the
performance appraisal of directors collectively and severally.

A Code of Conduct should be prepared setting out the standards of corporate and
personal behavior expected of all directors, employees and contractors with respect to
customers, shareholders, Government, the environment and the public.

The roles of the Board committees are summarized below.

3.3.3 Finance & Planning

The Finance & Planning committee:


• Reviews the expected cost of meeting long term power demand
projections prepared by Single Buyer and proposals for meeting them and
recommends priorities where it is necessary to ration capital
• Reviews SubCos’ financing plans and ensures that collectively they
optimize the Group’s cost of capital and average cost of borrowing
• Reviews Treasury proposals for managing finance and foreign exchange
costs and short term financing arrangements
• Reviews the Group’s business plan
• Makes appropriate recommendations to the Board

3.3.4 Audit & Risk Management

The Audit committee should also be responsible for oversight of risk management and
compliance throughout the Group because at HoldCo level the Group’s financial risks
(e.g., exchange rate, interest rate, counterparty) will become increasingly more significant
as the Group becomes progressively less reliant on Government and aid agencies for
finance and should be managed with the other risks faced by the Group, e.g., major plant
failure, public and personnel injury, fire and earthquake.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

The Audit & Risk Management committee:


• Ensures that satisfactory arrangements exist for identifying, monitoring
and mitigating financial and operational risks within the Group, including
those associated with major contracts
• Ensures that satisfactory arrangements exist for measuring and reporting
SubCo and group operational and financial performance
• Ensures that satisfactory arrangements exist for internal control and audit
of the Group
• Receives the report and management letter of the external auditor and
considers issues raised in it
• Ensures that satisfactory arrangements exist within the Group for
monitoring compliance with all laws and regulations, including taxation,
health and safety and environment
• Makes appropriate recommendations to the Board.

3.3.5 Information Technology

The Information Technology committee:


• Ensures that a long term group IT strategic plan is prepared and updated
from time to time
• Reviews SubCos’ IT plans and ensures that they are consistent with
overall group IT strategy
• Ensures that group IT security plans are prepared and implemented
• Makes appropriate recommendations to the Board

3.3.6 Human Resources, Nomination and Remuneration

The Human Resources, Nomination and Remuneration committee:


• Ensures sound overall group health, safety, welfare, staff development
and remuneration policies are prepared and ensures that they are
implemented by SubCos
• Receives succession plans from HoldCo’s and SubCos’ management,
identifies pending vacancies at Board and top management level
throughout out the Group and assists in development of short lists of
potential appointees
• Recommends on remuneration policies for directors and senior managers
throughout the Group
• Makes appropriate recommendations to the Board

3.3.7 Technical

The Technical committee:


• Ensures that SubCos’ proposals for meeting future power demand are
technically sound and consistent with international best practice
• Approves performance standards for major items of equipment

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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

• Reviews SubCos’ asset management plans and ensures that they are
economic, mutually consistent and support the Group’s long term power
supply strategy
• Makes appropriate recommendations to the Board

3.3.8 Delegation of Authority

The Articles of Association grant extensive powers to the MD to expedite the business of
HoldCo. Since the Articles is a public and statutory document it may be relied upon by
third parties doing business with the company as evidence of the MD’s power to deal with
them on HoldCo’s behalf. However, the Board should consider what decisions should be
reserved to itself.

The following are examples of matters decisions on which the Board should consider
reserving to itself. Quantitative limits in them are purely illustrative.
• Appointment, termination and remuneration of the immediate
subordinates of the MD of HoldCo
• Appointment, termination and remuneration of directors and chief
executives of subsidiary companies
• Signing off major reports to Government
• Commitment of capex in excess of Tk 100 million per project
• Executing contracts in excess of Tk 500 million
• Capital raising in excess of Tk 100 million per occurrence
• Investment in new generation etc including contracts with IPPs
• Sale of shares in HoldCo or any of its SubCos
• Sale of any of SubCos’ major plant items
• Amendment of the Articles or Memoranda of Association of any SubCos

3.4 CORPORATE PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

As discussed above in Section 3.1, HoldCo will have two principal functions: to help
ensure optimal allocation of scarce capital across its subsidiaries, and to drive improved
performance of those subsidiary operating companies. Proposed mechanisms for capital
allocation are discussed in Section 8.3. This section describes HoldCo’s performance
management function.

The 2000 Vision and Policy Statement highlights the lack of effective operational
performance evaluation as a major constraint to improved sector performance. While
there has been some focus to help improve commercial viability through setting up targets
at the corporate level, these targets have neither been derived systematically nor linked to
individual performance. In some companies (e.g. DESCO, PGCB) bonuses are paid on
achievement of corporate targets but the allocation of bonus amount is not linked to level
of individual achievement. In BPDB, bonuses are paid against set targets on zonal basis
under a Punishment and Reward Scheme. However, there has been no case of penalties
in case of underachievement of targets.

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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Effective performance measurement and performance management systems are essential


to create well-performing organizations, whether public or private. Since HoldCo will be
the apex company of many power sector corporatized bodies, it is all the more important
that it takes the lead in developing, implementing and promoting a performance-oriented
culture across not only in its own business but in that of its subsidiaries as well.

Given that HoldCo will have sector-level objectives, the goal for the company should be to
wield individual efforts into a common effort where, while each member of the organization
(subsidiaries) contributes something different but in all they must all contribute to a
common Goal or Vision for the sector. Such contributions must be mandated through
performance contracts where targets for achievement are clearly laid out and are
measured on a regular basis. Achievements must be rewarded and corrective actions
taken in situations of non-performance.

3.4.1 The Performance Management Framework

Performance management is a systematic approach to performance improvement through


an ongoing process of establishing strategic performance objectives; measuring
performance; collecting, analyzing, reviewing, and reporting performance data; and using
that data to drive performance improvement. Performance management aims to impose
accountability, and therefore incorporates the elements of accountability shown in Exhibit
1.4.

Performance-based management has many benefits, including:

• It provides a structured approach to focusing on strategic performance


objectives. In other words, performance management focuses on the
achievement of results, not on the number of activities. It promotes a work
culture that values results over bureaucratic processes, and encourages
dynamism and initiative.

• It provides a mechanism for accurately reporting performance to upper


management and stakeholders. Because all work is planned and done in
accordance with the strategic performance objectives, the end result is an
accurate picture of individual, program, and organizational performance.

• It provides a mechanism for linking performance and budget expenditures. At


the beginning of the cycle, performance management provides a framework for
showing what goals will be accomplished and what resources will be necessary
to accomplish those goals. At the end of the cycle, it shows what was actually
accomplished and what resources actually were used to achieve those results.

• It provides an excellent framework for accountability. Performance management


ensures accountability for results. In the performance management framework,
all actions, decisions, expenditures, and results can be easily explained,
justified, and reported.

• It shares responsibility for performance improvement. In the performance-based


management process, performance improvement becomes a joint responsibility
between the organization and its stakeholders/customers or between the
individual and his/her management.

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To be effective, a performance management framework should span all levels of the


sector, just as accountability must cascade from the top to the bottom of the sector.
Exhibit 3.5

Exhibit 3.5: The Cascade of Accountability


Authority Responsibility
The Voters
Elections
Pledge to achieve basic objectives
The Government
Establishes targets thru Performance Contract. Enabling funding.
HoldCo performance
Appoints/dismisses Board members Autonomy
against targets

The Board of Directors of the Holding Company


Establishes targets thru a Performance Contract. Enabling funding.
Appoints/dismisses Board members Subsidiary performance
against targets Autonomy

The Board of Directors of a Subsidiary Company


Establishes targets thru Performance Contract. Enabling resources.
Unit performance
Appoints/dismisses Senior Management Autonomy
against targets

The Management of a Subsidiary


Allocate project resources. Enabling resources,
Performance against
Hire/dismiss employees incentives
individual targets
The Employees

Therefore, HoldCo’s performance management system will define the key relationships
that will exist between HoldCo and the Government, HoldCo and its subsidiaries and
HoldCo and its employees. Promoting this performance culture will enable sector-level
gain in efficiencies and achievement of goals that the government has set for itself.

The framework is a three-step model where performance contracts are drawn between the
following:

• The Government and HoldCo


• HoldCo and its subsidiaries
• HoldCo and its employees

The targets in these performance contracts must cascade down from the performance
contract drawn between the Government and HoldCo to the employees of HoldCo in the
end. In this way both the goals of the Government (sector level goals) and the goals laid
down for the subsidiaries by HoldCo will be linked to the employees of HoldCo. In
addition, HoldCo must influence and promote adoption of similar performance
management framework in its subsidiaries. This framework is shown in Exhibit 3.6.

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Exhibit 3.6: HoldCo’s Performance Management Framework

Managing performance is one of the biggest challenges faced by organizations today.


Often this is caused by a lack of clarity of performance expectations and unwillingness on
the part of leaders to make to a commitment to strategically manage performance.
Performance contracts provide a means to address this challenge.

A performance contract is a document that clearly lays down goals / targets for
achievement within a specified timeframe (milestone). Such achievement or non-
achievement is then reviewed and analyzed, and appropriate actions taken to either
reward the achievement or set corrective actions for improvement. The aim of creating a
performance contract as a document is to ensure it is always available for reference and
review and it removes ambiguity and bias from the performance process / framework.

The Performance Contract prepared annually by the Board of Directors and “negotiated”
with the shareholder. It shall contain:
• Objectives of company
• A summary of the nature and scope of commercial activities of the group
• Details of capital structure
• Accounting policies to be followed
• Operational and financial performance targets and measures to be met over the
next five years
• Dividend policy and estimates
• Information to be reported
• Procedures for share subscriptions or purchases
• Assumptions regarding factors outside the control of HoldCo, including obligations
of the Government, that will affect target performance, including (i) fuel prices,
inflation, force majeure events, etc. (ii) availability/provision of financing, (iii) tariff
levels, and (iv) subsidies.

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• Other matters agreed with the shareholder

When the Performance Contract is agreed and signed by the parties it will constitute a
statement of the targets against which a company’s achievements will be judged and of
the obligations Government has undertaken to meet. An example is given in Appendix F.

Exhibit 3.7 depicts the three steps for preparing a performance contract. Each is
discussed in turn below.

Exhibit 3.7: Steps for Preparing a Performance Contract

SET GOALS (TARGETS)

The process for Performance Contract starts with setting performance expectations or
Goals. Performance contracts should include Routine, Stretch and Development goals
that incorporate expectations or specific actions to be taken.

Routine goals include actions that encompass performance expectations that are
expected to be completed in the normal course of work, business or project.

Stretch goals include actions that challenge the skills, abilities and knowledge
(competencies) and resources of an individual or collectively as group or company.
Attempt must be at all times to make the Stretch Goals realistic and not unreasonable.

Development goals include actions that are directed at development and which enhance
current and future value of the organization.

While devising goals it must be kept in mind that the goals are:
• Simple and specific – so that everyone in the company, from the top management
to the field staff, can easily comprehend and relate to them, and work to achieve
them. The targets should also not be unnecessarily complicated in their design or
applicability.
• Measurable - so that all targets are objective and not subject to too much
interpretation or discretion. The calculation of the achievement should be
transparent and easily defined. The means by which the data will be compiled
must be explicitly considered.

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• Attainable – so that the target is within reach with a reasonable amount of stretch
and time, and with the resources that have been made available. Targets should
be such that they are do-able and acceptable to all concerned, especially the
implementing agencies. It is not prudent to set targets that are beyond reach and
unattainable in a reasonable timeframe.
• Relevant - so that they reflect the priorities of the sector, the company and its
subsidiaries. Targets over which there is little or no, control would not be relevant,
and one of the principles in setting targets is to pick areas where there is control,
and the means to meet the targets.

SET MILESTONES

Milestones or dates for specific actions to be completed for each goal are critical to accept
accountability. And, the overall contract should extend to a reasonable time in order to
promote systematic accountability checks. It must be ensured that the timeframe is not
too large as it would weaken the commitment to a goal. This dimension of timeliness,
together with the four characteristics noted above, suggest that targets need to be
SMART: Simple and specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely

SET ACCOUNTABILITY

Accountability sessions are important components of the contracting process and include
reviewing progress, determining what additional resources may be needed, adjustments
of the milestones and performance coaching. Schedule a final review to establish
completion of the contract, negotiate a new contract and deliver any rewards associated
with contract completion or set corrective actions to improve performance.

3.4.2 The Government – HoldCo Performance Contract

The performance contract between HoldCo and the Government is a two step process.
On one hand the contact must represent a cumulative target of the subsidiaries and on the
other it must also incorporate the goals that the Government has set for the power sector
overall. It must also be noted here that many of the goals / targets set under this
performance contract will be more long term and a minimum time frame of yearly reviews
or updates should be set up.

The 2000 Vision and Policy Statement and the Three Year Roadmap for the Power Sector
Reform updated in 2005 should serve as a guiding document for framing the goals at the
sector level. These sector-level goals will cascade down to the subsidiaries and in turn to
the employees of the HoldCo, hence they must be free from ambiguity; as noted
previously, they should be SMART targets. In addition, the targets should indicate the
baseline information against which performance is measured, and also the prioritizing of
targets. These are detailed further below.

Exhibit 3.8 provides some examples of targets that could be used in the Performance
Contract between HoldCo and the Government. A sample Performance Contract is
provided in Appendix F.

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Exhibit 3.8: Example of Targets for Government – HoldCo Performance Contract

The Policy Statement on Power Sector Reform states the following;

“Provide electricity service to the whole country by the year 2020”.

This can be then used to set up a yearly target for the HoldCo which can state:
• ‘Achieve electrification of 40,000 (or X number) household in the financial year
2008 – 2009’

The above target in itself could lead to or be set in conjunction with other targets for the
HoldCo such as the following:
• ‘Commission a 40 Km (or X Km) Transmission Line extension at 132 kV during
the financial year 2008 – 2009’
• ‘Ensure an overall plant availability factor of Y% during the year 2008-2009’

There could be other financial targets like


• Return on Capital Employed
• Debt Servicing ratio

In addition, the performance contract would document corresponding Government


commitments or assumption such as:
• The Government will arrange debt funding of BDT X million for HoldCo and its
subsidiaries to meet this target.
• ‘The above targets assume an increase of Y% in the sales weighted tariff during
2008 - 2009’

3.4.3 The HoldCo – Subsidiary Performance Contract

The performance contract between HoldCo and a subsidiary is linked directly to the
subsidiary’s activities and must be more operational in nature. For each subsidiary a
separate performance contract must be drawn up, which will be dependent on the nature
of business of the subsidiary. Distribution, transmission and generation companies will
each have a separate set of targets but they must also carry some targets that are drawn
from or are derived from the sector-level targets which HoldCo has agreed with the
Government. Such linkage is also to some extent based on the sector-level priorities. A
note on this linkage is mentioned in another chapter later.

The nature of the targets in this performance contract may be more near-term and the
goals / targets set under this performance contract should have a yearly timeframe with a
six monthly review mechanism built in. Again, the performance contract process must be
used as a guide for setting targets at all levels, and the targets must be SMART.

Some examples of targets to be laid down in the Performance Contract between the
HoldCo and different types of subsidiaries are given in Exhibit 3.9. These Performance
Contracts would utilize the same format as that between HoldCo and Government, as
shown in Appendix F. A complete list of candidate key performance indicators (KPIs) are
provided in Exhibit 3.10.

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Exhibit 3.9: Examples of Targets for HoldCo – Subsidiary Performance Contracts

For Distribution Companies, targets could include;


• Reduce Losses by 20% from existing level in year 2008 – 2009
o Calculated as Loss % = Energy Input – Energy Sold X 100
Energy Input
• Improve Collection Efficiency by 20% from existing level in year 2008 - 09
o Calculated as CE % = Total Billed – Total Collected X 100
Total Billed
• Improve Revenue to Current Expenditure Ratio by 20% in year 2008 -09
o Calculated as RCE Ratio = Revenue
Current Expenditure

Other targets related to SAIFI, SAIDI, Customers Serviced per Employee may also be set as
targets for a Distribution Subsidiary

For Transmission Companies targets could include;


• Improve SAIFI by 15% from existing level in year 2008 – 09
o Calculated as SAIFI = Total no. of customer interruptions (Interruptions/Customer/Year)
Total no. of Customers Served
• Improve SAIDI by 15% from existing level in year 2008 – 09
o Calculated as SAIDI = Sum of Customer Interruption Duration X (Hrs/Customer/Year)
Total no. of Customers Served
• Improve RLIF (Revenue Loss Impact Factor) by 10% in year 2008 – 09
o Calculated as RLIF = Actual Energy Transferred
Total energy Available for Transfer

Where, Actual Energy Transferred = Total Energy transferred (including wheeling) in a Year

And, Total Energy Available for Transfer = Actual energy transferred and the energy lost
during outage (million Units)

Other targets related to Km of Lines serviced per Employee, MVA per Employee, Revenue to
Current Expenditure Ratio may also be set as targets for a Transmission Subsidiary

For Generation Companies targets could include;


• Plant Availability
• Generation Losses
• PLF
• Actual Vs Capacity Generation
• Per Employee Generation
• Outage %

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Exhibit 3.10: Sample KPIs by Value Chain Segment

Distribution Transmission Generation


• Losses (energy billed / • Losses (energy • Station Losses
incoming energy) transferred to distribution • Plant Availability
• Collection ratio / energy injection from • Plant Load Factor
(collected/billed) generation) • MW capacity per
• Cash generated from • Transmission charge Employee
private sources as a % of collection ratio • Net MWh generated per
all non-tariff cash funding • Cash generated from Employee
(DESCO only; represents private sources as a % of • Forced outage rate
proceeds of IPO, bonds all non-tariff cash funding • Planned outage rate
and any corporate (PGCB only; represents
borrowing) proceeds of IPO, bonds
• Customers per employee and any corporate
• Operating cost of service borrowing)
(Total operating costs • Circuit-km per Employee
divided by kWh billed) • MVA of transformers per
Employee
• Operating cost of service
(Total operating costs
divided by kWh billed)
• Transmission SAIDI
(exclude interruptions
due to generation
outage)
• Transmission SAIFI
(exclude interruptions
due to generation
outage)

3.4.4 The HoldCo – Employee Performance Contract

The HoldCo must set up a separate Employee Performance Management System


(EPMS). It must form an integral part of the conditions of service guiding the employees’
tenure with the company. Such EPMS must enhance the alignment of team and individual
goals with the broader strategic goals of the company. While this Performance
Management Framework lays down the guidelines for the overall efficiency in the sector
by building a performance culture through Performance Contracts, the Performance
Contracts for employees must be addressed through a separate EPMS where each
individual employee is communicated in detail of what the process is about, why it is being
implemented, and how it works.

Essentially the EPMS must be a three step process and must entail;
• A face to face meeting between the staff member and line manager to discuss the
Individual Performance Contract
• Mid term Review of Performance
• Final Appraisal at end of term

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In an EPMS the performance contract must cover elements of both quantitative and
qualitative targets. The assessment process must cover both quantitative and qualitative
elements of the work carried out to date and must be rated on a well defined rating scale.
All increments or salary increases must be set as a percentage of salary, dependent on
the performance level achieved against agreed targets at start of performance period.

At the end of each performance period and upon completion of the review, all employees
must be advised in writing of salary increases, bonus payments, and promotions. It must
also be set that continued non performance could lead to corrective actions which may
also lead to termination in situations of no improvement.

It is also proposed to introduce Forced Ranking in the EPMS as a first step towards
adopting a modern system. Forced Ranking eliminates bias in the administration of any
employee performance system that may result on account of inter-personal dynamics
within the organization. It also provides direct incentive for higher performance and
motivates individual employees towards achievement of individual goals.

Forced ranking is a performance intervention, which can be defined as an evaluation


method of forced distribution, where managers are required to distribute ratings for those
personnel under evaluation into a pre-specified performance distribution ranking. A typical
distribution would have four ratings: Failing to Meet Expectations, Meeting Expectations,
Exceeding Expectations, and Greatly Exceeding Expectations. Forced ranking mandates
that a certain number of employees will be assigned to each rating class, including Failing
to Meet Expectations. The exact distribution may vary by unit depending on the
performance of that unit. For example, units that are exceeding their organizational targets
will allow for a higher percentage of employees in Exceeding/Greatly Exceeding
Expectations, and a lower percentage in Failing to Meet Expectations when compared to
units that are not meeting their organizational targets. Forced ranking has also been
defined as a workforce-management tool based on the premise that in order to develop
and thrive, a corporation must identify its best and worst performers, then nurture the
former and rehabilitate and/or separate the latter.

The Employee Performance Management system is detailed in the proposed HoldCo


Human Resource Manual presented in Supplemental Appendix C.

3.4.5 The Subsidiary – Employee Performance Contract

For the HoldCo to meet its targets, each Subsidiary must meet its own targets, which in
turn is possible only if all or most of the units under each Subsidiary and their employees
are able to meet their own targets. Thus, the targets for most activities must be set in such
a way that if the units under the subsidiary achieve their targets, then the Subsidiary will
also achieve their targets, ultimately leading to the HoldCo meeting its goals. Such a
cascading of targets is an important element of the structure of the Performance
Management Framework.

The system of cascading of targets links the various companies in the sector together and
brings them under a common framework. It promotes the culture of performance to
permeate across the sector and motivates different companies to achieve common goals.
An example of cascading of targets is given below in Exhibit 3.11 and the linkages
represented diagrammatically in Exhibit 3.12.

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Exhibit 3.11: Examples of a Cascading Target

An example of this cascade can be:

“Provide electricity service to the whole country by the year 2020”.

This can be then used to set up a yearly target for HoldCo which can state:
• ‘Achieve electrification of 40,000 (or X number) household in the financial year
2008 – 2009’

The above target in itself could lead to other targets for the Subsidiaries which could be as
follows; (Assume 30,000 household electrification works goes to WZPDCL)

Target for WZPDCL


• Ensure electrification of 30,000 households in 2008 – 09

WZPDCL can then set target for its Procurement Division


• Ensure procurement of all electrification items for 30,000 household by August
2008

WZPDCL can also set target for its Project Implementation team
• Complete all surveys and material requirement specification for additional
30,000 household electrification by April 2008
• Award contracts for electrification works for 30,000 households by August
2008

WZPDCL can also use this for setting targets for its Employees (Say the Project Manager for
Project Implementation Team)
• Ensure completion of 3,0000 household electrification by March 2009

Similarly the HoldCo can set target for its employees which could be;
• Secure capex funding for electrification of additional 40,000 households by July
2008

Exhibit 3.12: Linkages in the Cascade of Targets

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Another feature of the target setting is that the performance targets for various activities
must generally be made more stringent from year to year. Such a ratcheting of targets will
lead to progressively improved performance. However, for certain activities, once a
specified minimum/maximum level is reached, ratcheting may not be possible (e.g. once
overall losses in a unit are brought to the level of allowable technical losses; it may be
difficult to lower them further without substantial capital investment). Thus, in setting
targets at the various levels, the unique characteristics of each unit should be considered
along with the principles of cascading and ratcheting.

3.4.6 Delivering Incentives

The Performance Management Framework aims to improve sectoral performance by


increasing employee productivity and motivation. While most companies and government
bodies currently have their own performance management systems to assess individual
performance there is no system to monitor group performance or to link individual
performance targets with unit and ultimately sector targets. The proposed Performance
Management Framework provides a mechanism to monitor Sector Performance and link it
to individual employee performance. HoldCo must lead application of this framework
throughout the sector so as to improve the overall sector functioning and bring efficiencies
in the system.

At a very basic level the overall mechanism of the Performance Management Framework
is straightforward - set targets at the beginning of the year; measure achievement against
the targets at the end of the year; and provide bonus/incentive payments based on how
much of the targets have been realized. The Performance Management Framework
creates a direct link between achieving targets/results and receiving rewards in the form of
end-of-year incentive/bonus payments. It promotes a work culture that values results over
bureaucratic processes, and encourages dynamism and initiative.

An important factor to consider is that performance is measured at two levels;


- At a company/organization level which is rewarded through bonus and,
- At an individual employee level which must be rewarded through
increments and/or payouts towards variable pay.

While bonus ultimately is paid to a company to be distributed among employees it is the


collective effort of the employees in the company which determines the company
performance, whereas payments towards increments and/or variable pay determine the
individual effort of an employee and his/her contributions. Both of these are linked in the
Performance Management Framework.

In considering the structure of the incentive/bonus payouts to be made to employees,


there were two main issues to consider:

1. The link between performance and reward must be strong enough to actually
incentivize employees to work harder, perform better, and, in some cases, change
their attitude or behavior. This means that, as far possible, the rewards should be
targeted so that it is not the case that all receive the same payouts (as has been
the practice for corporate entities in Bangladesh, e.g. a 2 months bonus across-
the-board). Ideally, the bonus payouts should differ, and be tied to individual and
overall company performance.

2. The overall well-being of the company must be kept in mind. Even if certain
employees, units or subsidiaries perform well, if overall Group or company

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performance declines substantially, then bonuses for all (even good performers)
will be affected, perhaps even to the point that no bonuses are paid.

Supplemental Appendix D provides further details on how bonuses may be determined.

3.5 SUMMARY BUSINESS PLAN

The basis for an initial baseline can be derived from HoldCo’s first business plan.

This business plan is drafted from the point of view of the first Board of HoldCo and is
designed to help the directors to identify and to consider the main issues that confront
them and to decide the priorities for the new company and group. The business plan will
be amended or redrafted as appropriate by the Vice President Finance & Planning to
reflect their decisions.

HoldCo’s business plan sets out its strategic roles & functions within the Bangladesh
power sector. It includes the major strategies to be followed over a planning period that
corresponds with the power system planning period, i.e., 10 years, and indicates the
amount and timing of investment requirements of the Group. It summarizes the expected
means of financing them, including firm sources of funds and unsourced amounts for
which sources need to be found. It sets out target performance criteria and objectives for
the group.

3.5.1 Situation

Following receipt of the FRRP and subsequent Government decisions, HoldCo is to be


incorporated in FY 2008 and is to acquire by 30 June 2009 the shares held by
Government or its nominees in the following Government owned power utility entities:
• Ashuganj Power Station Co Ltd
• BPDB Power Generation Co Ltd18
• Electricity Generation Co of Bangladesh Ltd
• Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd
• West Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd
• Central Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd
• North West Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd
• South Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd

The latter three companies are in the course of being established as going concerns.

DESCO has taken over part of DESA’s business in the Greater Dhaka region and a new
company, Dhaka Power Distribution Co Ltd, has been formed to take over the remainder.
It is not Government’s intention that these companies should become subsidiaries of
HoldCo at the same time as BPDB’s subsidiaries.

18
As surrogate for such other companies that may be established to acquire and operate the other
generation assets of BPDB.

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3.5.2 Issues Analysis

The role and functions of HoldCo have been discussed in Section 3.1. The starting point
for the Business Plan is a SWOT analysis relative to these functions, the results of which
are summarized below.

STRENGTHS
• The Group enjoys the support of Government and international aid agencies
such as the World Bank and the ADB
• The group is a monopoly supplier of power in its zones
• It is inheriting subsidiary companies that in part reflect the financial and
operational recovery and rehabilitation plan (FRRP)

WEAKNESSES
• The power sector as a whole, including HoldCo’s areas of operations, is
undercapitalized and does not generate sufficient cash to support growth and
to service capital
• The tariff structure has been excessively politicized and current tariffs are
inadequate to ensure the operational and financial viability of the entities in the
sector
• The sector plant and infrastructure have not been maintained adequately and
effective plant utilization is low
• The public holds the power sector in low esteem because of its chronic inability
of meeting its needs
• While SingleBuyerCo remains outside the HoldCo group HoldCo will not itself
have the capacity to identify future national needs for power and plan to meet
them

OPPORTUNITIES
• The new corporate structure frees management from the restrictive controls
pertaining to personnel and procurement that prevail in the Government sector
• Improved governance practices and improved credit ratings will enable
additional funds to be secured for investment in the sector by various means
including bond issues, share sales, joint ventures, etc

THREATS
• A large inventory of run down assets places system reliability and therefore
income at risk and raises O&M costs
• Uncertainty about the availability and cost of primary fuels may delay power
station commissioning and require continuation of load shedding
• If timely, soundly argued and documented tariff requests cannot be submitted
to the Regulator, or if the Regulator is tardy in making satisfactory tariff orders,
group revenue will be at risk resulting in difficulties in establishing both financial
and operational standing in the community

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Major issues to be resolved progressively by HoldCo and its subsidiaries include the
following:
• Establishing group-wide policies on key issues such as:
o Evaluating and financing capital works
o Accounting and financial and operational reporting
o Risk management
o Incentive remuneration, retirement benefits
o Health, safety and environmental protection
• Establishing a uniform basis reporting the value of fixed assets in service and
providing for depreciation and major maintenance

3.5.3 Critical Success Factors

There are four factors critical to the success of the HoldCo group:
• Right people
• Right performance management
• Right policies and procedures
• Right, i.e. optimal, capital allocation.

The general nature of the strategies required to meet these critical factors are set out
below.

RIGHT PEOPLE

HoldCo should ensure the highest level of direction and management of all companies in
the group. It should employ capable professional staff to implement its policies.

As described in the AOA, a selection panel of eminent persons is to be appointed to


prepare and submit to the shareholder a long list of candidates for initial election to
HoldCo’s Board. Those directors will be responsible for:
• Electing a Chairman from among their number
• Selecting and appointing a chief executive to be appointed to the position
of Managing Director.

On a continuing basis the Board of HoldCo will be responsible for:


• Approving the appointment of the MD’s immediate subordinates
• Appointing directors to subsidiary companies’ (SubCos’) boards
• Appointing new directors from the current long list–should any become
necessary or desirable in the best interests of the company–to hold office
until the General Meeting next following appointment, at which time their
appointments will be subject to shareholder scrutiny and vote.

SubCos’ boards will have similar responsibilities with respect to their companies, except
that the appointment of new directors to SubCos will always be the responsibility of
HoldCo’s Board.

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RIGHT PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

The Performance Management Framework has been described at length in the preceding
section. It stipulates that the Group business plan, the strategies to put it into effect and
the planned results should be agreed with the shareholder and the essential features
incorporated in a Performance Contract between the Board and the shareholder. The
business plan objectives become contract targets against which results will be regularly
measured and reported and remedial action taken if necessary.

In like manner SubCos’ business plans will be the basis for performance contracts
between their boards and HoldCo.

Business plans should not be confined to managing assets, customers and money–they
need to have regard to personnel and environmental issues as well as Government’s
objectives for the power sector. They should include finding and adopting innovative ways
of working with the private sector to achieve Government’s reform objectives.

RIGHT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

People and plans need to be supported by sound policies and procedures in all important
fields, including:
• Human resources management
• Health, safety and environmental protection
• Accounting and financial and operational reporting
• Information and communications technology
• Evaluating and financing capital works
• Risk management
• Procurement

RIGHT, I.E. OPTIMAL, CAPITAL ALLOCATION

The power system master plan sets out the least cost means of achieving Government’s
objectives for the power sector, the principal of which is to make electricity available to all
by 2020. The plan will be updated from time to time to reflect changes in demand and
implementation progress amongst other factors.

The power system master plan provides basic inputs to SubCos’ long term physical and
financial planning. An important role of HoldCo is to ensure that capital and other funds
available for investment by the group are directed to the most effective projects. This will
require stringent economic and financial evaluation of projects and the proposed means of
financing them.

3.5.4 Key Performance Criteria

Meeting the goals of the business plan depends on two main factors in addition to having
right people:
• Having funds available to meet the planned expenditures on planned works
o Funds from operations and known capital sources
o Government paying for each year’s tranche of capital on time

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

o Timely Government payments for uneconomic projects and subsidized


supply
• Effective project planning and management.

The periodic SubCos’ performance criteria to be developed include the following:


• SubCos’ individual and joint cash generation as a percentage of plan
• SubCos’ expenditure (less known overruns) on planned works as a
percentage of planned expenditure
• Achievement of major milestones on time, eg, commissioning major new
assets
• Capital receipts and loan drawdowns as a percentage of plan.

Other group operating performance measures are illustrated in Exhibits 3.13 and 3.14.

3.5.5 SubCos’ Business Plans

Consolidated projections of SubCos’ business plans prepared to implement the power


system master plan and accompanying financial projections will indicate the extent to
which the group will be able to finance its capital works and service its debt capital from
operations year by year. They will also show committed and identified (but not committed)
sources of debt capital and the unsourced amount of funds required.

SubCos’ business plans may also identify non-financial constraints to meeting the plan
objectives, e.g., lack of gas supplies at the place of a proposed power station.

Selected major items from SubCos’ plans may be included or appended in HoldCo’s, e.g.,
major additions or extensions to plant, new external financing arrangements.

3.5.6 HoldCo Financial & Operational Projections

Consolidated financial and operational projections for the Group have been prepared
based on the projections in the FRRP. They indicate the impact of the group’s strategies
on financial and operational performance.

CAPITALISATION OF HOLDCO

The projected net asset value of the group on 1 July 2009 is Tk 106,000 million including
PGCB shares valued at market price in June 2006. The authorized capital should provide
for future expansion and fund raising as may be decided from time to time. The nominal
capital of HoldCo is therefore recommended to be 150 million shares of Tk 1000/- each.

Shares should be issued paid up to the value of shares acquired and initial operating
funds.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The performance measures for the group shown in 3.12 and 3.13 are selected from a
more extensive range of targets used at the SubCo level. Where practical, projected
measures have been taken from the FRRP.

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3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Exhibit 3.13: Indicative Operational Performance Targets

Item Unit 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Total energy sent out GWh 41 295 44 665 48 298 52 220 56 443 61 002
Retail sales GWh 8 342 9 092 9 911 10 803 11 775 12 835
HV %
MV %
LV %
Customer connections k
Customers/FTE distribution employee No./FTE
Revenue yield
Bulk - Single Buyer Tk / kWh 1.38 1.49 1.43 1.37 1.29 1.21
Customers Tk / kWh 5.58 5.77 5.85 5.73 5.69 5.47
System losses
Transmission % Sent out 3.4 3.4 3.3 3.3 3.2 3.2
Distribution % Received 15.6 14.7 13.8 12.9 12 11.1
Generation plant factor % Energy capacity
Transmission outages No
Transmission outages Av duration mins
Distribution outages No
Distribution outages Av duration mins
System peak demand MW
Load shed at peak %
Capital works
Expenditure % budget
Completed works % on time by value
Completed works % budget

Exhibit 3.14: Indicative Financial Performance Targets

Item Unit 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Profitability
Operating Return on Av. Net Fixed Assets i/s % BTBI 11.1% 11.0% 11.0% 11.0% 11.1% 11.1%
Return on Revenue % BTBI 26% 27% 26% 26% 25% 24%
Net return on Equity % ATAI 7.5% 9.1% 9.3% 9.2% 8.8% 8.5%

Productivity
Revenue : Total Capital Employed % 31% 34% 36% 37% 39% 39%
Return on Total Capital Employed % BTBI 7.9% 8.9% 9.2% 9.3% 9.3% 9.2%

Liquidity
Current assets : current liabilities ratio 1.50 1.47 1.61 1.70 1.71 1.74
Trade debtors Days' av revenue 49 45 49 50 50 51
Long Term Debt : Equity ratio 2.4 2.3 2.1 2.0 1.8 1.7
LT Liabilities : (LT Liabilities + Equity) % 71% 70% 68% 67% 65% 63%
Debt Service Cover % 10% 11% 13% 13% 14% 14%
Selffinancing % 3 yr CapEx
Commercial financing % Cap Ex

BTBI : B efore T ax, B efore I nterest


ATBI : A fter T ax, B efore I nterest

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

INDICATIVE FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

Government has adopted the recommendations of the FRRP; the following have therefore
been assumed for the purpose of preparing indicative financial projections for the group:
• HoldCo will be in a position to acquire its first subsidiaries by 30 June 2009
• All prerequisites will be met by that date and all companies will exist by that
date and will be taken over with effect from 1 July 2009.

Accordingly, the figures from Appendix G to the FRRP have been drawn on to prepare
summary financial statements for FYs 2010-2015. The total equity shown in the balance
sheets is divided between HoldCo’s shareholders and the minority shareholders in PGCB.
(Because the statements were prepared from the printed Appendix G of the FRRP some
rounding errors have accumulated; they do not detract from the general financial situation
portrayed.)

Major assumptions made in the FRRP (and therefore in the projections that follow)
include:
• Financial reconstruction recommendations are implemented
• Macro economic parameters (inflation and exchange rates and fuel prices)
as stated in FRRP Table 6-1
• Expansion of generation in line with the Power System Master Plan19 as
summarized in FRRP Table 6-4 and the energy balance in FRRP Table 6-2
• Sector CapEx and financing as set out in various tables
• O&M costs of each part of the sector also as set out in various tables
• Retail tariffs raised to give full cost recovery (or Government will make
revenue up to full cost recovery if necessary) including a return of 10 per
cent of net fixed assets in service. 20

Consolidated income statements for the HoldCo group are in Exhibit 3.15. PGCB’s
wheeling income derived from DisCos has been offset against the corresponding expense
in DisCos’ income statements.

Consolidated balance sheets are in Exhibit 3.16. In like manner, amounts owing between
PGCB and DisCos have been eliminated. The assumed goodwill paid on the acquisition of
PGCB’s shares at market value (being the difference between the value assigned to the
shares allotted and 75 per cent of the net assets of the PGCB) is shown as a deduction
from shareholders’ equity. The amount of shareholders’ equity attributable to the minority
shareholders in PGCB is shown separately.

Consolidated cash flows of the Group are in Exhibit 3.17. An analysis of projected capex
by SubCo is in Exhibit 3.18.21

19
Power System Master Plan Update, 2006, ADB TA 4379-BAN: Power Sector Development Program II,.
Component B:
20
The FRRP assumes that operating subsidies will not be required from Government after FY 2008.
21
It is noted that the level of capex projected in the FRRP for SZDPC is some 40 per cent greater than that
in the projections made by Soluziona in their corporatisation report.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Exhibit 3.15: Consolidated Income Statements

Item 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Operating revenue
Bulk power 45 551 53 129 54 963 56 645 57 663 58 458
Retail 46 523 52 419 57 991 61 907 67 039 70 229
Total energy revenue 92 074 105 548 112 954 118 552 124 702 128 687
Wheeling 6 624 7 780 8 374 8 831 9 296 9 778
Other 2 151 2 510 2 696 2 857 3 026 3 147
M Tk 100 849 115 838 124 024 130 240 137 024 141 612
Operating expense
Fuel 18 787 21 028 21 115 22 573 23 178 25 202
Purchased power 27 151 30 772 34 487 36 755 40 363 42 054
Operating & maintenance 11 230 13 209 13 748 14 576 15 288 16 339
Personnel, admin & genrl 4 837 5 299 5 861 6 491 7 194 7 974
Depreciation 13 092 15 432 16 748 17 317 18 138 16 862
M Tk 75 097 85 740 91 959 97 712 104 161 108 431
Operating income 25 752 30 098 32 065 32 528 32 863 33 181
Net interest expense 11 117 11 419 11 551 11 394 11 221 11 074
Other finance expense 2 946 3 141 3 255 3 329 3 384 3 473
Net income before tax 11 689 15 538 17 259 17 805 18 258 18 634
Income tax 4 381 5 828 6 473 6 677 6 846 6 990
Net income after tax 7 308 9 710 10 786 11 128 11 412 11 644
Dividends 788 1 221 1 505 5 255 2 804 5 574
Retained income M Tk 6 520 8 489 9 281 5 873 8 608 6 070

Exhibit 3.16: Consolidated Balance Sheets

Item 2009 OBS 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Working capital
Cash 16 583 18 981 23 181 28 618 30 730 34 775 31 886
Other current assets 21 656 19 021 21 493 22 735 23 723 24 787 25 377
less Current liabilities 25 488 25 785 27 747 30 202 31 756 34 304 36 819
Net working capital 12 750 12 217 16 927 21 151 22 697 25 258 20 444
Fixed assets
In service 208 149 257 861 291 306 292 800 297 690 295 974 301 523
Under construction 89 537 56 328 28 521 32 713 28 648 33 257 37 252
297 686 314 189 319 827 325 513 326 338 329 231 338 775
Investments 28 28 28 28 28 28 28
Total Capital Employed M Tk 310 464 326 434 336 782 346 692 349 063 354 517 359 247
Financed by
Long term liabilities & provisions 219 008 228 481 230 293 230 963 227 464 224 305 222 965
Shareholder's Equity
Paid in capital 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615
Retained income - 5 654 13 511 21 902 26 852 34 475 39 493
less Share purchase premium 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481
Shareholders' equity 87 134 92 788 100 645 109 036 113 986 121 608 126 626
Minority interest in PGCB 4 322 5 167 5 844 6 692 7 615 8 602 9 656
91 456 97 955 106 489 115 728 121 601 130 210 136 282
Total Capital Employed M Tk 310 464 326 436 336 782 346 691 349 065 354 515 359 247

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
3. Holding Company Roles, Functions and Establishment. . .

Exhibit 3.17: Consolidated Cash Flows

Item 2009 OBS 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Operating cash flow 23 265 28 205 30 696 31 672 32 820 31 865
Change in noncash wkg capital -158 -1 471 -671 -394 -421 -166
Change in provisions 676 708 761 824 891 971
Capital investment -29 607 -21 069 -22 435 -18 141 -21 028 -26 407
Net financing flows 8 221 -2 169 -2 913 -11 848 -8 218 -9 151
Change in cash balances 2 397 4 204 5 438 2 113 4 044 -2 888
Cash balance M Tk 16 583 18 980 23 184 28 622 30 735 34 779 31 891

Exhibit 3.18: Expenditure on Capital Works

Subsidiary 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Ashuganj Power Station Co Ltd


BPDB Power Generation Co Ltd 8 687 3 612 5 761 3 944 6 291 11 109
Electricity Generating Co of Bangladesh Ltd 2 550
PowerGrid Company of Bangladesh Ltd 6 550 8 814 7 676 8 021 8 382 8 759
West Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd 1 150 1 050 1 098 1 147 1 199 1 253
Central Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd 2 184 694 725 758 792 828
North Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd 594 932 974 1 018 1 063 1 111
South Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd 7 892 5 967 6 201 3 253 3 301 3 347
M Tk 29 607 21 069 22 435 18 141 21 028 26 407

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. ORGANIZATIONAL DESIGN

4.1 ORGANIZATIONAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Organizational structure is the configuration of the hierarchical levels and specialized units
and positions within an organization, and the formal rules governing these arrangements.
This section describes some of the principles of organizational design that are relevant to
HoldCo.

As shown in Exhibit 4.1, organizations should be structured around the work to be


performed. The purpose of an organization defines its value chain and work processes.
Organizational units can be designed around these processes as either ad hoc teams, or
as permanent structural units depending on the nature of the work (e.g. on-going vs.
temporary, single task vs. multiple tasks, etc.)

Exhibit 4.1: Work Processes Define Organizational Structure


For HoldCo:
Purpose • Financial coordination
• Performance management

ORGANIZATION
WORK Processes People organized into groups
to Achieve Purpose to perform work
Financial Planning Performance Management

Negotiate Negotiate Establish


Determine Monitor & Assist with
Understand Allocate GOB Subsidiary HoldCo
Available Report Remedial
System Plan Capital Performance Performance Personnel
Funding Performance Actions
Contract Contracts Targets

Work
Work defined by the conducted by
enterprise value chain
people Teams Fixed Units
• Perform ad hoc • Perform
work continuous and ad
• Single clearly- hoc work
defined purpose • May perform
• Temporary multiple tasks
• Permanent

By designing an organization in this manner, the resulting organization achieves the


following characteristics:

• Lean. An organization should not be top or bottom heavy. By designing an


organization around the work it does helps ensure optimal staffing levels since
staffing inherently reflects only what is necessary to conduct the work.

• Performance-focused. Delineating organizational groups according to the work to


be performed focuses the organization on performance. It facilitates the clear
allocation of authority, minimizes hand-off of work between units, and enables the
key performance indicators for various work processes to be readily mapped to
organizational units. This helps build a performance culture at all individual and
organizational levels.

• Adaptable. As the business environment changes, the work that is done changes.
By designing the organization around work performed facilitates adaptation of the

4-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

organization to changes in the business environment. Technological


developments, shifts in customer needs and prevailing circumstances may over a
period of time trigger changes in the design of the organization, which helps
ensure effectiveness.

By designing the HoldCo organization in this manner, HoldCo can serve as a role model
for organizational effectiveness and become a leader in the sector. In will enable it to
focus on its core activities and deliver outstanding results for others to emulate.

4.2 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

4.2.1 Overview of HoldCo’s Organizational Structure

Exhibit 4.2 maps the HoldCo value chain to high-level organizational units as follows:

• Financial Planning Department is responsible for the financial planning


function of HoldCo in its entirety. This includes activities for understanding the
system plan, determining available funding, and allocating capital. Given the
complexity of this task, the need to communicate with numerous stakeholders
(e.g. Government, SubCos, development partners, private financial institutions,
etc.) this will be a continuous activity and hence is structured as a fixed
department.

• HoldCo Performance Contract Team. On the other hand, negotiation with the
Government regarding the Government-HoldCo performance contract will occur
during only a single, intensive period each year, and will draw upon many
different parts of the organization for input. It is therefore structured as an ad
hoc team.

• Performance Management Department is responsible for negotiating the


HoldCo-SubCo performance contracts and then monitoring and reporting
performance against those contracts. By making a single department
responsible for both the negotiation of the performance contracts and the
subsequent monitoring and reporting will help ensure that SubCo targets are
SMART. Separating negotiating organizationally from monitoring would allow for
the possibility that the monitoring unit could blame the negotiating unit for failing
to establish targets that were measurable.

• HR Cell will take some of the outputs from the Performance Management
Department to develop targets and implement the EPMS for HoldCo staff.
However, since this is a relatively small supporting activity, it is relegated to a
cell rather than a full-fledged department.

• Programs and Projects Department will provide remedial assistance to poorly


performing SubCos. It will have a critical job during the early years of HoldCo in
helping ensure the readiness of various BPDB operations to become HoldCo
subsidiaries.

In addition to these units corresponding to elements of HoldCo’s value chain, the CEO’s
office will also be supported by the following Cells or units:

- Legal and Company Secretary Cell

4-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

- Human Resource and Training

- Corporate Communications

Further there shall be an Internal Audit cell reporting directly to the Board of Directors.

Exhibit 4.2: Defining Key HoldCo Units Around Its Value Chain
Financial
Planning Performance
Dept. Management
Dept.

Negotiate Negotiate Establish


Determine Monitor & Assist with
Understand Allocate GOB Subsidiary HoldCo
Available Report Remedial
System Plan Capital Performance Performance Personnel
Funding Performance Actions
Contract Contracts Targets

HoldCo Programs &


Performance Projects
HR Cell
Contract Dept.
Team

Exhibit 4.3 provides a complete picture of the entire HoldCo structure building out from
this value chain analysis. This organizational structure has only been proposed down to
the level of Manager. As senior managers are recruited and the organization starts to
operate, it would be prudent for them to decide their down-the-line staff requirements
based on the actual load of work. Nonetheless, the addition of staff should be based on
the overall organization design principles described above.

The functions of each of these departments and cells are described in further detail in the
following sections. In addition, the complete organogram of each of these departments
and cells are also given.

Positions like that of Office Help, Peons, Drivers etc. should all be outsourced to a
Facilities Management company to keep overall costs down and the organization lean. It
will also help the HoldCo in focusing on the core and ensuring efficiency of such staffers
through a contract with such Facilities company.

4-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
Exhibit 4.3: HoldCo Organizational Structure

Board of Directors

Internal Audit Cell

President &
Chief Executive Officer

Legal & Company Secretary Human Resource & Training


Cell

Corporate Communications

Vice President Vice President Vice President


Financial Planning Performance Management Program & Projects

General Manager General Manager Senior Manager


Funding IT & Systems Projects Monitoring

Senior Manager Manager Project Team 1


Capital Planning MIS

General Manager General Manager Project Team 2


Accounting Performance Monitoring

Senior Manager Manager


Group Accounts Technical Performance Monitoring

General Manager Manager


System Planning Review Financial Performance Monitoring

Manager Manager
Transmission Planning Review Compliance Performance Monitoring

Manager
Generation Planning Review

Manager
Distribution Planning Review

4-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4.2.2 Financial Planning Department

Exhibit 4.4 depicts the Financial Planning Department.

Exhibit 4.4: The Financial Planning Department

Board of Directors

President &
Chief Executive Officer

Vice President
Financial Planning

General Manager General Manager General Manager


Funding Accounting System Planning Review

Senior Manager Senior Manager Manager


Capital Planning Group Accounts Transmission Planning Review

Manager
Generation Planning Review

Manager
Distribution Planning Review

The Finance Planning Department will have the following distinct functions, each led by a
General Manager:

• Funding

o Identify the financing requirements including Capex, loans, repayments


etc. for the subsidiaries

o Negotiate terms with subsidiaries for their financing requirements

o Identify sources of funds and conduct negotiations with funding


agencies on terms

o Allocate available funds (e.g. on the basis of ranking projects by return


on investment) to establish capex for each subsidiary

o Treasury - Monitor net position and Deposit temporary surpluses

o Banking & insurance including maintaining and managing banking


relations

o Negotiate to obtain best terms with local / International banks

o Negotiate terms for insurance and obtain necessary guarantees

o Insure the subsidiary and where applicable HoldCo assets

• Accounting

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

o Group Accounts consolidation

o Short and Medium term financial projections and cash flow budgets

o HoldCo Finance and Accounts

o Group Asset Management

• System Planning Review

o Obtain and review the system plan

o where appropriate, assist the system planner and/or SubCos with


development of the plan(s)

o Analyze the system plan and query SubCos to ensure consistency and
understanding of dependencies

o Provide project costs estimates and dependencies to General Manager


(Funding)

4.2.3 Performance Management Department

Exhibit 4.5 depicts the Performance Management Department.

Exhibit 4.5: The Performance Management Department

Board of Directors

President &
Chief Executive Officer

Vice President
Performance Management

General Manager General Manager


IT & Systems Performance Monitoring

Manager Manager
MIS Technical Performance Monitoring

Manager
Financial Performance Monitoring

Manager
Compliance Performance Monitoring

• IT & Systems

o IT strategy and plans across HoldCo and Subsidiaries

o MIS

o Develop, manage and maintain data and reporting systems

o Analyze and evaluate system requirements across HoldCo and


Subsidiaries

4-6
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

• Performance Monitoring

o Set benchmarks

o Prepare and negotiate HoldCo-SubCo performance contracts and


evaluation criteria including promoting adoption of best practices.

o Collect, collate and analyze data with regard to evaluating performance


against set targets

o Monitor performance of HoldCo and Subsidiaries on Performance


Contracts drawn up

o Ensure compliance across HoldCo and subsidiaries in meeting norms


related to environment, human resources etc.

o Audit performance contract related issues across subsidiaries

o Group budget and expenditure monitoring against targets

4.2.4 Program and Projects Department

The Program and Projects Department will have few regular employees. Special Project
teams will be formed either through deputation or secondment from either other
departments within HoldCo, from the subsidiaries, or from subcontractors and consultants.
These project teams will be staffed by specialists in different areas who will bring their
expertise for the duration of the project. The regular employees of the department are
likely to be power sector generalists with solid project management skills. Typically the
Project Team will get disbanded on completion of the project and employees will return to
their original employment.

Exhibit 4.6 depicts the Program and Projects Department.

Exhibit 4.6: The Program and Projects Department


Board of Directors

President &
Chief Executive Officer

Vice President
Program & Projects

Senior Manager Project Team 1 Project Team 2


Projects Monitoring

• Projects Monitoring

o Review, monitoring and implementation of multi lateral donors /


government funded projects at HoldCo and Subsidiary level

o Prepare project plan, terms of reference for new projects

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

o Identify, initiate and lead new efficiency improvement or remedial


programs with subsidiaries

o Develop and document key processes to ensure better coordination


between the Subsidiaries and the HoldCo, and establish a respository
of “best practice” knowledge for the sector.

4.2.5 President and CEO Office

The President and CEO’s office is supported by distinct cells / units. These units shall
directly report to the CEO’s office independent of the other departments. These cells /
units will usually be headed by a Manager / Senior Manager and are classified as support
function and will generally have fewer staff down the line.

Exhibit 4.7 depicts the Office of the President and CEO.

Exhibit 4.7: The Office of the President and CEO

Board of Directors

President &
Chief Executive Officer

Legal and company secretary Human Resource & Training


Cell

Corporate Communications

• Legal and Company Secretary Cell

o Ensuring the Group's compliance with legal and regulatory


requirements

o Provide advice in relation to the Group's acquisitions, disposals and


other corporate and contractual transactions, whether financial or
otherwise

o Providing legal support to the Subsidiaries

o Maintaining Shareholder relations including register of shareholders


and monitoring changes in share ownership

o Represent the HoldCo at the Registrar of Companies

o Arrange Annual General Meetings, prepare agendas, Minutes of the


meeting and assist in the production of company annual reports

o Developing and overseeing systems that ensure company’s compliance


with all legal and statutory requirements

o Monitor changes in relevant legislation and regulatory environment and


take appropriate action

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4. Organizational Design. . .

• Human Resource & Training

o Design, develop and implement Human Resource Strategies consistent


with the business objectives of the HoldCo.

o Establish principles of HR management in SubCos

o Recruitment, human resource planning, training and development,


performance management, remuneration and staff benefits in HoldCo

o Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legislative and contractual


obligations as an employer in HoldCo and SubCos

o Develop training and development strategy

o Training needs analysis to determine organizational and individual


training needs including preparation of annual training plans

o Monitor, evaluate and modify training and development programs

• Corporate Communications

o Create, implement and oversee communication programs that


effectively describe and promote the organization and its objectives

o Prepare presentations for effectively communicating company


programs and policies to employees and other stakeholders

o Liaison with and build relations with media and other bodies to manage
the corporate image including preparation of publicity and press
materials

o Manage internal and external corporate events and ensure the event
meets its intended objective

o Provide corporate communications support to subsidiaries as and when


required

4.2.6 Board of Directors Office

• Internal Audit

o Advise on, formulate internal audit policy and monitor the achievements
of the organizational objectives including identification, assessment and
management of risks to those objectives

o Ascertain the integrity and reliability of financial and other information


provided to management and stakeholders, including those used in
decision making for the HoldCo and the subsidiaries

o Review Internal Audit report of the Subsidiaries and present relevant


findings to the Board and management of HoldCo.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

o Lead and manage a team of auditors to conduct regular audit and


checks across the company

o Add value by acting as a facilitator in business risk management and


carrying our value for money reviews, thereby assisting the
management and the Board of the HoldCo in the effective discharge of
their responsibilities.

4.3 AN ALTERNATIVE HOLDCO STRUCTURE

BPDB personnel also put forward an alternative HoldCo structure for consideration. This
alternative is shown in Exhibit 4.8. The principal differences between the proposed
structure presented in the preceding section and this alternative are as follows:

• In the alternative, performance monitoring is split into two departments, one for
generation and transmission, the other distribution. There are three concerns
with this approach:

o Consistency of metrics and measurement. The corporate


performance management system requires consistent definition of
performance metrics, and implementation of systems that can ensure
timely and accurate compilation of this data across all subsidiaries.
Splitting this function between two departments could result in
unbalanced monitoring, with some subsidiaries receiving targets that
are more difficult to meet or measure than other subsidiaries. A single
department for performance monitoring is required to ensure uniform
development of metrics and application of measurement systems.

o Consistency of rewards. The performance monitoring function of


HoldCo will agree the performance contracts with the SubCos. Splitting
this function between departments will complicate the development of a
reward system that can objectively allocate rewards according to the
contribution of subsidiaries towards achieving HoldCo targets agreed
with the Government. If the function is split between departments, each
department will seek a greater share of the reward “pool” for the
subsidiaries it monitors. A single performance monitoring department is
required to ensure that rewards are allocated uniformly and consistently
across subsidiaries based on their individual contributions towards
overall HoldCo targets agreed with Government.

o Risk of subsidiary “capture”. This is the most serious concern. By


creating separate departments along the value chain, these
departments are likely to start controlling the entities they monitor. The
HoldCo organization begins to look much like the existing BPDB, which
is incompatible with the objective of promoting autonomy with
accountability among operating subsidiaries. HoldCo is to impose
accountability on SubCos, not control them, and the risk of control
increases by structuring HoldCo to mirror the operations of unbundled
SubCos rather than providing an overarching performance monitoring
function. HoldCo senior management may well serve on the Boards of
Directors of the SubCos, and Managing Directors of the SubCos would
consequently report to them as a matter of corporate governance.

4-10
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

However, HoldCo senior management will not line manage personnel in


the SubCos.

• Within each of these new departments, divisions are established for O&M and
Commercial. But the HoldCo is not involved in operations. There is no need for
O&M or Commercial divisions as these only replicate the structure of the
operating companies. Rather, it is more appropriate to arrange these divisions
according to their performance monitoring functions such as
accounting/finance, technical, and other compliance (e.g. environmental).
Accounting/finance monitoring and other compliance monitoring is likely to be
largely the same across subsidiaries. An accountant can review the financial
reporting of a distribution company as well as a generation company, and an
environmental engineer needs to be familiar with overall environmental
regulations than any particular value chain segment of the electricity industry.
Performance monitoring of technical parameters will take place at a relatively
high level. It is not necessary to have experts in generation or distribution, but
rather generalists who can set up effective reporting systems within the
subsidiaries.

• In the alternative, the system planning review is moved out of the Financial
Planning Department, and clubbed with programs & projects in a new Planning
and Design Department, which replaces the Program and Projects
Department. This modification would be a concern because there would no
longer be a single department responsible for preparation of the financial plan.
The financial plan is based on the integration of system planning
considerations (the optimal expansion plan) with funding constraints (which
determines feasibility). This split would dilute accountability for sound financial
planning and coordination across the Group.

• In the alternative, IT & Systems is moved out from the Performance


Management Department and into the Planning & Design Department. The
most important function of the IT & Systems division is provision of
infrastructure to facilitate performance monitoring. Keeping it within the
Performance Management Department ensures a user focus. There is no
obvious reason for moving it to the Planning & Design Department other than it
does not fit better anywhere else.

Overall, the alternative structure defeats the purpose of HoldCo, since HoldCo is intended
to promote autonomy with accountability, not command and control the subsidiaries. It is
supposed to drive performance of the operating companies, not be the operator. It
provides optimal financial coordination, not system planning. In short, it is a model for
better governance and commercial orientation of the sector, rather than a continuation of
the status quo.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
Exhibit 4.8: Alternative HoldCo Organizational Structure Proposed by BPDB Personnel

Board of Directors

CEO

Human Resource & Training


Company Secretary
Legal Cell
Corporate Communications Internal Audit Cell

Vice President Vice President Vice President


Financial Planning Vice President
Performance Monitoring Performance Monitoring Planning & Design
Generation & Transmission Distribution
General Manager General Manager
Financial Planning General Manager General Manager Projects
Generation O&M
Deputy General Manager
Deputy General Manager
Project 1
Financing Deputy General Manager Deputy General Manager
O&M O&M
Deputy General Manager
Deputy General Manager Project 2
Banking & Insurance Deputy General Manager Deputy General Manager
Commercial & Energy Procurement General Manager
Audit Planning & Design
Deputy General Manager
Treasury / Budget
Deputy General Manager
General Manager General Manager General Manager Planning
Accounting Transmission Commercial
Deputy General Manager
Deputy General Manager Deputy General Manager Design
Deputy General Manager
Group Accounts O&M Energy Purchase & Audit
General Manager
Deputy General Manager Deputy General Manager IT & Systems
Deputy General Manager
Group Asset Management Commercial & Energy Commercial Performance
Audit Deputy General Manager
MIS

Deputy General Manager


IT

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4.4 GRADING STRUCTURE

A lean grading structure has been formulated to keep the organization hierarchy flat as
much as possible while at the same time allowing staff enough growth within a reasonable
time to keep them motivated to achieve the organizational goals.

In the prevailing system, most corporations in the power sector follow a twenty grade
hierarchy which at times can become a hindrance to career growth. The proposed
grading system reflects a reduction in the number of layers in the management hierarchy
and also widens the span of command of senior roles. This will provide the staff with
enough responsibility and authority to perform their roles better.

In line with the above, a fourteen grade structure for Line and Support staff has been
formulated. The grades are laid down in the HoldCo Human Resource Manual presented
as Supplemental Appendix C.

4.4.1 Grade Entry Points and Qualification Requirements

Entry point qualifications have been created as a reference and guideline for HoldCo to
undertake fresh recruitment from the market. These indicative qualifications across each
grade serve as means to define qualifications for new hires in the HoldCo organization.
HoldCo requires highly trained employees and will likely need to seek qualified resources
from the market to help build its human capital, since at least some of the functions of
HoldCo are not currently performed by BPDB.

There could be situations where the required qualification may not be readily available in
the market, or entry grade criteria are not met in cases of transfer of otherwise qualified
staff from BPDB. In such situations the practical experience of the candidate must be
taken into account in addition to his/her basic qualification. HoldCo management must
exercise their wisdom whether to lower the qualification requirement in order to hire a
particular individual who brings the relevant experience in the required field. The aim at all
times must be on organizational capacity building.

The entry point qualification across each grade is mentioned in the HoldCo Human
Resource Manual presented in Supplemental Appendix C.

4.4.2 Job Descriptions

Job descriptions for key positions are attached provided in Appendix G.

4.5 SALARY STRUCTURE

The proposed compensation and benefits for HoldCo are based on analysis of salary and
benefit data from the following organizations:

• Bangladesh Power Development Board

• Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd

• Dhaka Electric Supply Company Ltd

• Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Ltd

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
4. Organizational Design. . .

• West Zone Power Distribution Company Ltd

• Ashuganj Power Station Company Ltd

These HoldCo salary recommendations are therefore based on comparative remuneration


data in the sector for similar sized organizations, and for positions with similar levels of
accountability and responsibility within Bangladesh.

There is an underlying assumption that improvements in remuneration will contribute in a


significant manner in improving overall levels of performance within the organization.
Individuals should be compensated for real levels of improved performance within a
normal (forty-hour) week. Longer hours of work do not equate with increased efficiency. If
longer hours are required it should be because workload has increased short term. If
workload increases long term, more staff is required.

Proper performance related rewards must not be diluted to make them appear more
"equitable" to employees, attempt must be to reward good performance and set measures
for improvement in situations of non-performance.

4.5.1 Principle of devising salary structure

The HoldCo salary structure should be set at a market competitive level to attract key
skills and to reward the increased levels of performance that will be required. In order to
develop a total rewards framework it is necessary to consider the following:

• Organizational values - what is the key focus and culture of BPC

• Individual needs and aspirations - ensuring the successful recruitment, reward and
retention of staff in order to meet organizational goals

• Internal Relativities - ensuring similar positions within the organization are


rewarded in similar ways

• External Relativities – ensuring that similar positions with other organizations in the
market are rewarded in similar ways.

ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES

The key reasons for the creating the HoldCo are to:

• Provide strategic guidance and coordination across the sector, particularly


through the allocation of funding

• Drive performance of the subsidiaries through its authority as shareholder


of the subsidiaries, so as to meet objectives of the HoldCo shareholder, i.e.
the Government.

The performance orientation in particular manifests itself through a culture of


accountability, transparency and commercial thinking. These are values which are central
to the creation of HoldCo and in ensuring effective change. It is important that these
values are propagated not only within HoldCo but down the line to the subsidiaries. The
compensation system must also build on these values.

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4. Organizational Design. . .

INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND ASPIRATIONS

HoldCo will face an immediate challenge in attracting personnel with the appropriate skills
and capabilities. Its attractiveness as an employer will depend on the opportunities it as
an organization can offer to potential applicants. As a performance-oriented organization it
will need to attract the highest performers, to operate in possibly the most sophisticated
commercial environment in the Bangladesh power sector. Remuneration and rewards will
be key, together with job satisfaction and opportunity for development as individuals.

INTERNAL RELATIVITIES

An initial assessment of recommended positions has been carried out on the basis of:

• Level of knowledge required to do the job

• Amount of problem-solving required to do the job

• Level of accountability of the job holder

Most of the employees will have to bring a significant amount of not only years of
experience but preferably cross-sectoral experience in their respective functional fields.
For example it is assumed that some of the Vice Presidents of the HoldCo will hold Board
of Director positions in the Subsidiaries which would mean that the Managing Directors of
these Subsidiaries will report to them in the course of corporate governance. It is
therefore important that they bring in experience by virtue of which they can contribute
effectively to the operation of the Boards they sit on, hence a distinction in salary needs to
be made because of additional job complexity.

EXTERNAL RELATIVITIES

Supplemental Appendix E presents approximate salary data collected from both private
and public sector organizations within Bangladesh. Comparisons have been made to
match positions as accurately as possible however this data is indicative only. Jobs have
been matched on the basis of job scope, not necessarily job title.

The comparisons shown are on the basis that these are corporate structured institutions in
the sector and have similar complexities in attracting and recruiting the right level of staff.
However it is important to note that none of them face the complexity of operations of the
new HoldCo, which must have a very strong strategic, managerial and commercial focus
for the sector.

4.5.2 Proposed Salary by Level / Grade

HoldCo must provide market competitive salaries and benefits if it is to attract the correct
caliber of staff, and it being one of the most complex entities in Bangladesh, must pay at a
rate which is better if not the best in the market. HoldCo will be a sophisticated
organization, and significantly more so than any other entity in the power sector and the
pay structure should be reflective this.

The proposed salary structure along with principle assumptions are described in
Supplemental Appendix F.

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4. Organizational Design. . .

4.6 STAFFING PLAN

The staffing plan puts forward the expected number of employees required to fill out the
organizational structure, consistent with the functions of the organization. As mentioned
previously, drivers, peons, and other low-level workers can be contracted from an agency,
and hence are not included in this analysis.

The HoldCo will not be a large organization by nature of its operations. It is there mainly
to provide strategic and financial guidance to its subsidiaries and to monitor their
performance, taking remedial action where appropriate. Most of its employees will be in
the senior management category. It is anticipated that HoldCo will have between 50 to
100 professional staff.

The exact number of HoldCo staff must be determined by the Board of Directors in
consultation with the President & CEO and where required the Vice Presidents of the
HoldCo. It is therefore important that these senior positions are first filled in the HoldCo
subsequent to which the future staffing needs of the organization in terms of people can
be determined. The management cadre may determine that additional analysts or other
professional staff are required. However, the principles of organization design must be
maintained when assessing future manpower requirements, i.e. the organization must be
lean and performance-focused. HoldCo must avoid evolving into a large, complex
organization as this would defeat the purpose of its formation.

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5. PERSONNEL TRANSFER AND RECRUITMENT

5.1 PRINCIPLES FOR STAFFING HOLDCO

Automatic transfer of employees from BPDB to HoldCo is not envisioned for the following
reasons:

• HoldCo will be a lean, commercially-oriented and performance-driven


organization. It will require a significant shift in culture and way of working to
achieve its objectives compared to BPDB.

• BPDB does not currently perform the functions envisioned for HoldCo. HoldCo
will be functionally different from any existing organization within the
Bangladesh power sector. BPDB does not conduct integrated financial planning
to optimize capital allocation, nor does it manage performance of its subsidiaries
in the structured manner envisioned for HoldCo. BPDB maintains an
engineering orientation, whereas HoldCo will aim for a business orientation.

• BPDB is a mammoth organization with around 1,588 employees at its Head


office. Out of these, 458 employees are in Class I and Class II categories,
whereas the HoldCo will have relatively small size (approximately 50 – 100
professional employees with low level support staff provided by contractors or
agencies) in terms of number of employees. To select such small number of
staff solely from the existing BPDB would be tedious and likely contentious, and
could be subject to bias and undue influence.

Rather, it is proposed that HoldCo staff be hired afresh from the market. BPDB employees
(or employees from the other power sector companies) are of course encouraged to
apply. But selection should be based on the overall fit of a candidate with not only the
specific requirements of the position, but also HoldCo’s strategic direction, as articulated
in its mandate, values, strategic planning and human resource planning.

The selection of staff should be based on the principle of Merit and Fairness. Merit will
determine the applicants’ competence and ability to do the job and refers to the closest
possible match between the needs of the organization and the knowledge, skills, abilities,
experience and personal attributes of a candidate. Fairness refers to a staffing process
that is unbiased, impartial, just and honest and that treats all candidates consistently.

In assessing the skills and abilities necessary for HoldCo to meet its organizational
objectives, the competencies listed below will help drive improved business performance.
These personal qualities are required in the workplace to deal effectively with self,
colleagues, and stakeholders. These competencies are in addition to the technical
competencies noted in the job descriptions that are required to carry out specific work
tasks, e.g. finance, accounting, planning, project management, etc.

These core competencies can be used for assessment, recruitment, performance, and
managerial development purposes. The competencies will initially be applied at senior
level management staff in HoldCo, but should be progressively cascaded down through
the entire organization.

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5. Personnel Transfer and Recruitment. . .

• Performance Focus. Committed to exceeding targets and improving


performance and does this by being creative and innovative. Links business
plan goals and key result areas to fulfill stakeholder goals.

• Commercial Orientation. Develops and implements innovative and robust


business strategies which explore opportunities and display a thorough
appreciation of the market and industry conditions, risks and anticipated
stakeholder needs.

• Managing Change. Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the


face of ongoing obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and
enthusiasm.

• Teamwork. Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and
promotes team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.

• Leadership & Vision. Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the


organization's strategies and goals internally and externally. Represents
policies and decisions of HoldCo positively, and inspires others to adopt the
principles and goals of the organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and
implementation of innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Able to
consider requests to change plans and goals with an open mind, and to
evaluate others’ views logically.

5.2 TRANSFER AND RECRUITMENT PROCESSES

All positions including the President and CEO and down the line should be done through a
competitive recruitment process. As mentioned above, no internal automatic transfer
process from BPDB to HoldCo is envisioned. External help of an executive search
company may be employed to identify potential candidates for different vacant positions
as it will speed up the process and reduce the administrative burden. All recruitment must
be done using the principles of Merit and Fairness and must incorporate the competencies
framework as part of the evaluation criteria. As mentioned earlier, BPDB employees will
be given due consideration during the selection process but they will have to apply for
positions which are created within the HoldCo.

The recruitment process is designed to:


• Facilitate the appointment of suitable employees in the most efficient,
transparent and effective manner
• Provide a systematic induction of qualified people and eliminate ad hoc
recruitment
• Ensure that the most qualified, competent, and experienced people are hired
for the job

The recruitment process has been detailed in the Human Resources Manual presented in
Supplemental Appendix C. The process follows these steps:

• Vacancy Announcement

• Preliminary Screening

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5. Personnel Transfer and Recruitment. . .

• Functional Screening

• Shortlist Announcements

• Interview and Selection

• Appointment letter

• Probation period

5.3 PERSONNEL TRANSFER & RECRUITMENT IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

A four-step, cascading process for recruitment should be undertaken to appoint key


personnel in HoldCo as shown in Exhibit 5.1.

Exhibit 5.1: The Cascading Recruitment Process

To help speed up the process as well as help reduce the administrative burden generally
associated with senior level recruitment, an external executive search company may be
engaged, especially to identify and assist in hiring of senior level staff in the HoldCo.

The appointment of a Board of Directors as representatives of the shareholders of HoldCo


is the first step in the organizational staffing. The Board will require the commercial skills
and experience needed to oversee the strategic direction and monitor the performance of
the Subsidiaries and the HoldCo. The process for appointment of Board members is
described in the Articles of Association given in Appendix C. The initial Board should be
designated within a month of Government’s efforts to form the company.

Once the Board of Directors has been appointed the next step would be to conduct search
for the President and CEO. The Board will constitute a selection committee that will be
responsible for conducting interviews and making recommendations on suitable
candidates. The Board will meet to consider the recommendations of the committee and
make the appropriate choice and determine the terms and conditions of service for the
incumbent and make an offer of appointment. The appointing authority shall be the Board
of Directors. This process should be complete within 3 to 4 months of the Board taking up
its duties.

The next step would be to appoint the Vice Presidents in the HoldCo. The Board of
Directors will constitute another selection panel to select the Vice Presidents in the
HoldCo. The President and CEO shall be a part of this selection committee and will make
recommendations to the Board. The Board will then make appropriate choice and offer
appointment to selected candidates as per rules. The appointing authority shall be the
Board of Directors. This process could begin in parallel with the search for the President
and CEO, but will not be finalized until the new President and CEO has had the
opportunity to review and provide inputs on the candidates for Vice President. Therefore, it
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5. Personnel Transfer and Recruitment. . .

is expected this process will be complete within 4 to 6 months of the Board taking up its
duties.

Once the President and CEO and the Vice Presidents have been inducted into the HoldCo
they will go ahead with the recruitment of other members of the organization down the
line. Such recruitment shall be based on the proposed organogram and will be guided by
both the principles of organization design and the principle of staffing. Authority to recruit
and appoint may be given to down the line staff through the written permission of the
President and CEO for all positions below the rank of General Manager. For all positions
up to the level of General Manager the President and CEO shall be the appointing
authority. The Vice President will be the appointing authority for all positions below the
level of a General Manager. This process can only begin once the President and CEO as
well as the Vice Presidents have been appointed. It is expected this will be complete 7 to
12 months after the Board first takes up its duties.

5.4 SOCIAL IMPACTS

The creation of HoldCo is motivated by the goals of improving financial coordination within
the Bangladesh power sector, and driving the performance of operating entities through
greater accountability. As described in Chapter 2, HoldCo will be established as a non-
operating holding company that owns the current and future operating companies created
from BPDB. As discussed further in Section 10.1, the vast majority of BPDB personnel will
be transferred to the new operating companies. Those remaining in the BPDB Head Office
will remain with the residual BPDB, which at some point may be corporatized as a new
Single Buyer Company. As part of that process, these employees may be offered a
voluntary retirement scheme (VRS), but as also discussed in Section 10.1, given the
limited number of employees that will be affected relative to total BPDB employees, these
all employees could likely be absorbed in the successor entities. However, none of these
employees will be directly affected by the creation of HoldCo.

Unlike many corporatization efforts in which existing organizations are made public
companies thereby leading to direct impact on the workforce including retrenchment, the
current effort of BPDB corporatization is to create a new company as a holding company
and bring different power sector entities under the umbrella of this holding company as
these entities become ready for changes. BPDB retains its single buyer role.

This effort effectively minimizes the direct social impact. None of the existing employees
in the near term in BPDB will be affected. There will be no direct loss of employment or
repositioning because of this effort. Further, it will provide the current employees with an
opportunity to seek new jobs with the HoldCo through a competitive hiring process.

Establishment of HoldCo will have a positive impact. It will entail creation of higher-quality
jobs. It will also help provide broader social benefits as these changes will contribute to
meeting the Government’s aim of bringing efficiency in the sector and promoting social
and economic growth in the country by making power available to all.

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6. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

6.1 CONDITIONS OF SERVICE

The conditions of service lay down the general terms on which employees will be
appointed to employment in HoldCo. The newly corporatized bodies of the power sector
have adopted a system of hiring regular staff on contract. Generally these contracts vary
in tenure from one year to three years. In some cases a newly corporatized company took
employees on lien from the BPDB and retained on lien for a few years before an option
was given to them to either remain with BPDB or transition to regular employment with the
corporatized body. This was done to promote continued satisfactory performance among
the employees.

It is proposed that this system of hiring on contract be done away with in HoldCo except
when the employment is genuinely of a fixed duration, or except when it is for lower level
support staff contracted through an agency. All other employees should be hired on a full
time basis if the nature of employment is regular and permanent. Performance is not
driven by the threat of losing one’s job. Rather, the organization must build up a
comprehensive performance management system which should drive performance with
positive incentives, and this should be linked to an employment agreement which allows
the organization to take action against continued non-performance. Regular employment
provides security to the employees enabling them to take long-term view about their
individual careers and helps the organization in building competencies over a sustained
period of time.

Supplemental Appendix C, the Human Resources Manual, describes the conditions of


service that govern the employment of all HoldCo personnel.

6.1.1 Categories of Staff

There will be the following categories of staff within the HoldCo.

• Regular Employees. Employees whose nature of job is regular and permanent,


and the employee shall remain in employment until either superannuation from the
services on attainment of superannuation age or on termination / resignation from
services of the HoldCo before the attainment of superannuation.

• Contract Employees. “Contract Employee” means any person with requisite


qualifications, experience and particular skills necessary to carry out
responsibilities of the job for a fixed tenure or term as contained within certain
terms and conditions laid down in his/her contract with the HoldCo. The
employment in such cases will terminate on expiry of the contract duration unless
specifically extended.

6.1.2 General Terms and Conditions of Service

All regular employees must be appointed through an appointment order which must be
signed by the appropriate Appointing Authority. The appointment order must contain the
following information. A sample appointment order is enclosed in Supplemental Appendix
G:

• Date of start of services

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6. Human Resource Management. . .

• Details about Designation and Grade

• Full salary details with reference to all components of salary and deductions
thereof

• General guidelines on code of conduct

• Probation period

• Appraisal and confirmation cycle

• Bonus and Increment

• Place of posting and work timings

• Confidentiality

The appointment order requires the candidate to accept and abide by the HoldCo Human
Resources Manual presented in Supplemental Appendix C.

6.2 THE HR MANAGEMENT CYCLE

The HR management cycle as shown in Exhibit 6.1 represents the entire range of HR
management activities. The chapters indicated in the exhibit refer to the corresponding
section of the HoldCo Human Resource Manual presented in Supplemental Appendix C.
The Manual addresses all elements of the HR management cycle.

Exhibit 6.1: The HR Management Cycle

Promote/ Plan
Separate/ Hire
Retire Chapters 5, Chapter 3
6,7,9 & 13
Chapters 4 & 5
Reward/ Chapters
8 & 12.4
Incentive Set
Chapter 8
Expectations
Chapter 8
Evaluate Chapters
1,2,10,11,12,
Performance 15 & 16
Perform
Chapter 14
Chapter 8 Task

Train/ Provide
Develop Feedback

The Human Resource Cycle starts with planning of HR needs, and proceeds to hiring
(recruitment or transfer) and the various elements of the EPMS. In addition, there are

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6. Human Resource Management. . .

elements that govern the actual performance of tasks, as well as training and
development.

This manual is ready to use and can be implemented in the new company right from the
time it is formed or comes into existence. It details various processes under the Human
Resource Management Cycle in depth and lists various levels of Authority and
Accountability in the new company.

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7. TRAINING NEEDS ASSESSMENT

This review of the training and development needs of the HoldCo is based upon the
following review, data, analysis, and research:
• A review of the proposed organizational structure of the HoldCo
• The HoldCo staffing plan
• HoldCo roles and functions
• Review of the various training institutions under BPDB

7.1 THE CURRENT SITUATION

BPDB’s current training and development program contains a number of separate


initiatives. There are six (6) training institutes under the Training Directorate of BPDB
which conduct various training programs for the power sector. These programs are
mostly of short duration. The Training Directorate under the BPDB is responsible for
design and delivery of various short and medium term courses in these institutes.

The programs conducted by the Training Directorate are heavily weighed in favor of
technical programs though some management programs are conducted too, the latest
being programs on total quality management (TQM) conducted by the Regional Training
Center, Tongi.

Feedback on training programs and their applicability and response of the participants is
mostly missing. Based on discussions and investigations conducted during the project it
appears there is shortage of Trainers at these institutes.

7.1.1 Computer Training Center, Directorate of Training & Career Development,


Dhaka

The Directorate of Training & Career Development office was created in the year of 1968
within the then East Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (EP WAPDA).

With the increasing demand for computer literacy, initiative was taken to start computer
training for the BPDB’s personnel from this Directorate office. With this end in view a
computer-training program was undertaken at the end of the year 1999 with a basic level
course at the Directorate office. Initially training course on basic computer was conducted
with only three or four PC computers. In 2006-2007, 230 personnel were trained on
various courses of basic computer literacy at this training directorate. Courses available
under the institute include training on Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, MS Project and
Auto CAD

7.1.2 Engineering Academy, Kaptai

Engineering Academy Kaptai was established in 1964 by EP WAPDA. The main objective
of the Academy is to conduct training for creating skilled manpower in the Water
Development Board (WDB) and the Power Development Board (PDB). A committee
formed with the officers from BPDB and WDB, runs the Management of the Academy,
though administration of the Academy is controlled by BPDB. The institute runs courses
on foundation or post-joining training for newly recruited officers, re-orientation course for
officers having service experience of few years, and higher courses for officers having
service experience of eight to ten years and seminars for senior officers.

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7. Training Needs Assessment. . .

7.1.3 Regional Training Center, BPDB, Tongi, Gazipur

The Regional Training Center (RTC), Tongi is one of the most important training
installations under BPDB. The institute is within short periphery of the 80 MW Tongi Gas
Turbine Power Plant, the Tongi 230/132/33KV Grid Sub-station and ZRS (Zonal Repairing
Shop). RTC, Tongi has been playing a distinctive role in imparting technical as well as
management, environment, occupational health related training to all sections of officers &
staff of BPDB. RTC, Tongi has the best available opportunity to demonstrate the practical
repairing & testing works of power & distribution transformers, calibration & testing of
energy meters. TQM is the latest edition to the yearly training program of this training
centre.

7.1.4 Regional Training Centre, Chittagong BPDB, Chittagong

Regional Training Centre, Chittagong was established in 1976. The first official activities of
this Training Centre were started at Rahmatgong Sub-Station building premises in
Chittagong. The main objective of this Training Centre is to conduct different training
courses for both technical & and non technical officers/staffs of Chittagong, Comilla,
Mymensingh and Sylhet region. To cope up with current needs, new courses like Total
Quality Management, Training of Trainers. Fire Fighting Courses are conducted these
days.

7.1.5 Ghorasal Training Centre, BPDB, Palash, Narsingdi

Ghorasal Training Centre is intended for training on power station operation and
maintenance (O&M). It is located within the compound of the 950 MW Ghorasal Power
Station (GPS). The Training Centre started in 1977 with an objective of training officers &
staff of Ghorasal Power Station power station in O&M. Since then technical personnel at
GPS as well as other power stations are being trained at this training centre.

7.1.6 Regional Training Centre BPDB, Rajshahi

Regional Training Centre, BPDB, Rajshahi was established in 1975 to train linemen
serving under BPDB. It is located at two residential building of 33/11 KV Horogram
(Mollapara) Sub-Station in Rajshahi. It has also been training helpers, security guards,
linemen, foremen, and other support staff on technical & non-technical matters.

7.2 KEY ISSUES WITH THE CURRENT TRAINING REGIME

Current training programs administered by BPDB are characterized by the following:

• High Technical Orientation - The current programs at the various training institutes
under PDB has very high technical orientation. As such development of
management skills is limited at best.

• Quality of Course Content – There is no existing mechanism to check either the


quality of the course content or the quality of delivery of the course.

• Training a Reward or Privilege - Training within BPDB has been viewed as a


reward or privilege granted indiscriminately to assert power or position. Staff are
frequently sent on training programs where their experience and role have no
relevance to the area of training provided.

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7. Training Needs Assessment. . .

• Knowledge Capture - When training has been granted there has been no
coordinated strategy to capture that learning by the BPDB. Therefore unless each
individual has used his/her own initiative to disseminate the knowledge gained, the
knowledge gets lost with the participant finishing his/her course. There is no
organized repository of know-how available to all staff for reference.

• Post-Training Application - When new skills are gained there is no clear strategy to
ensure training skills are practiced and improved upon. In many cases staffs do not
have the opportunity to put training into effect at the local offices either because of
lack of proper facilities or lack of initiative.

• Project Management Skills - Project Management skills and capabilities are


limited. Individuals appear to be expected to gain skills and competencies as they
carry out the job, rather than be given training in advance.

7.3 TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HOLDCO

HoldCo functions focus on financial planning and coordination, and performance


monitoring of the subsidiaries. It is therefore important that regular training and
development is provided to the core staff to be able to perform their tasks responsibly and
with effectively. The following programs are recommended
• Strategic Management fundamentals - including people management
• Financial Management
• Commercial Accounting
• IT Training including refinement of core computer skills
• Project Management

In addition to the above, twinning/internship arrangements should be made with similar


organizations. A twinning arrangement would cover wider management aspects including
health and safety, environmental, and human resource development and training, as well
as financial planning. The company will "twin" with local key management, technical, and
accounting staff in order to expose HoldCo staff to the relevant business practices, for
utilities in a practical on the job training context. It could involve short term secondments
between the organizations.

A specific training needs assessment can only be conducted once employees are in place
and their job descriptions have been finalized. This will be the responsibility of the
proposed Human Resource Cell. More broadly, it will cover all human resource
management matters for HoldCo, including training and development and will cover
technical, managerial, and competence based development as follows:

• Responsible for the design and implementation of a training and development


strategy as part of the overall HR strategy and shall ensure that focuses on
individual growth and organizational excellence.

• Develop a comprehensive Training and Development Plan that must be designed


for every staff member within HoldCo, which will also form the basis for the review
at the time of appraisal. It must also be linked to succession planning for the
organization.

• Arrange twinning and internship to provide impetus to the training regime and
provide experience/exposure to working operations.

7-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

8.1 OPENING BALANCE SHEET

Following receipt of the FRRP and subsequent Government decisions, HoldCo is to be


incorporated in FY 2008 and is to acquire by 30 June 2009 the shares held by
Government or its nominees in the following Government owned power utility companies:
• Ashuganj Power Station Co Ltd
• BPDB Power Generation Co Ltd (surrogate for all other BPDB power
plants)
• Electricity Generation Co of Bangladesh Ltd
• Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd
• West Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd
• Central Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd
• North West Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd
• South Zone Power Distribution Co Ltd

The latter three companies are in the course of being established as going concerns.

DESCO has taken over part of DESA’s business in the Greater Dhaka region and a new
company, Dhaka Power Distribution Co Ltd, has been formed to take over the remainder.
It is not Government’s intention that these companies should become subsidiaries of
HoldCo at the same time as BPDB’s subsidiaries, though HoldCo could acquire the
controlling interest in them at some future time.

On the basis of the value of fixed assets used in the FRRP (a mixture of historic cost and
cost restated prior to 2005) the net asset value of the above companies at 1 July 2009 is
projected to be Tk 914,400 million. (Since the FRRP figures were prepared BPDB has
adopted the IVVR values for fixed assets as at 30 June 2000. During this technical
assistance fixed asset movements were updated to 30 June 2005 and values were
restated to the same date.22 These adjustments were not been taken into account in the
FRRP projections, but have been incorporated here.)

For the purposes of HoldCo’s financial projections the shares in the above companies
other than PGCB have been valued at the projected net asset value at 1 July 2009. After
excluding the minority shareholders’ share of equity in PGCB23 and valuing the remaining
shares at market the total value of shares to be acquired is Tk 90,600 million.

HoldCo may purchase sundry items required for its offices from BPDB, or it may purchase
new items. Either way, the amount to be spent is minor compared to the investment
assets.

22
See Discussion Paper Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments in Appendix H.
The total value of net fixed assets in service at 1 July 2005 was put at Tk 136,000 million. The restated
IVVR value of the BPDB Group’s fixed assets in service at the same date was Tk 193,465 million.
23
25 per cent. Since there is no basis for predicting the market value of PGCB shares in 2009 the existing
premium is assumed to remain.

8-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

8.1.1 Working Capital

HoldCo’s working capital requirements are limited to the items mentioned above:
purchase of initial assets and operating costs from commencement of business until
dividends flow from SubCos.

The amount required will be minimized by recharging net operating costs to subsidiaries in
proportion, say, to the value of investment in each. This should also ensure that the costs,
although relatively small, are recovered in selling prices.

In the projections, it is assumed that Tk 15 million is subscribed by Government to cover


capital expenditure and the first year’s operating expenses making the initial paid in capital
of HoldCo Tk 90,615 million.

8.1.2 Loan Capital

The consideration for the subsidiary companies’ shares ultimately to be acquired by


HoldCo should be satisfied by the issue of ordinary shares. The shares may be issued
fully or partly paid. If the shares issued were deemed to be partly paid, future capital
inputs agreed by Government and documented in the Performance Contract would be
simply accomplished by paying up the shares in response to a call made by the Board.

It could be argued that the capital structure of HoldCo should be similar to that
recommended for operating companies, viz, 60 per cent long term debt capital and 40 per
cent equity. However, this raises issues of (a) interest rate and repayment term and (b)
cash flow out of which to meet interest and principal repayments. While the FRRP
projections indicate overall profitability of the sector and the possible extent of dividend
payments experience suggests that delays in raising tariffs and securing other increases
in sector cash flows may once again make debt servicing difficult or impossible.

There is no point in setting HoldCo up to fail as a result of recommending a high debt:


equity ratio and there is no benefit to Government in receiving debt (bonds) instead of
shares. The risk is that HoldCo will be forced to suspend debt service payments for lack of
cash from subsidiaries, one of which has to find cash for dividends to minority
shareholders.

SubCos should prepare capital investment plans and estimates of capital requirements,
indicating clearly what portion they cannot finance internally or from capital markets and
therefore need HoldCo’s assistance. HoldCo’s financial planning will take into account
proposed capital contributions to be received through Government and may indicate the
desirability of raising new debt or equity capital from the markets itself. It will do this only
when it is assured of its, i.e., the Group’s, ability to service it.

8.1.3 Opening Balance Sheet

Based on the above considerations, the opening balance sheet as of 1 July 2009 shown in
Exhibit 8.1.

8.2 FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

The FRRP covers the sector excluding REB. The plan is supported by recommendations
that include tariff reforms as well as balance sheet unbundling and restructuring and

8-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

financial projections for 2006-2015 that are set out fully in Chapter 6.2 of the FRRP report.
Major assumptions on which HoldCo’s dividend stream depend include:
• Financial reconstruction recommendations are implemented
• Macro economic parameters (inflation and exchange rates and fuel
prices) as stated in Table 6-1 of the FRRP
• Expansion of generation in line with the Power System Master Plan24 as
summarized in Table 6-4 and the energy balance in Table 6-2
• Sector CapEx and financing as set out in various tables
• O&M costs of each part of the sector also as set out in various tables
• Retail tariffs raised to give full cost recovery (or Government will make
revenue up to full cost recovery if necessary) including a return of 10 per
cent of net fixed assets in service.

The principal income of HoldCo is dividends from its subsidiaries. The FRRP includes
financial projections and details of proposed dividend payments by the proposed
subsidiaries of HoldCo.

Following Government guidance, the initial phase of restructuring leads to a holding


company with a group of eight subsidiaries as set out in Section 8.1, Opening Balance
Sheet. The Group initially excludes the two companies serving Greater Dhaka and the
Single Buyer (the residual BPDB). The financial projections presented below take this into
account.

In making financial projections for HoldCo the following other main assumptions are made:
• The opening balance sheet consists of shares in operating companies
acquired from Government plus a small amount for fixed assets and
working capital, all acquired in return for fully paid shares issued to
Government25
• Net operating costs are recovered from subsidiaries
• Income tax is payable at 15% of net income before tax.

8.2.1 Dividend Policy

Dividends are paid by operating companies under the FRRP only if the following
conditions are met by each company: it makes a profit; it has sufficient cash available; and
has a debt/(debt + equity) ratio of less than 70 per cent.

The FRRP is otherwise silent on dividend policy. In the financial projections the average
proportion of net profits distributed over the 10 years of projections by GenCos is 35 per
cent and by DisCos 15 per cent. These proportions seem to reflect fairly the need for
SubCos to retain funds to finance expansion, etc. PGCB does not meet the debt ratio
condition during the projection period and as a result retains all its profits.

24
Power System Master Plan Update, 2006, ADB TA 4379-BAN: Power Sector Development Program II,
Component B.
25
The investment consists of the shares of companies other than PGCB at the net asset value shown in the
FRRP plus the market value at June 2007 of 75 per cent of the shares in PGCB.

8-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

Since a proportion of projected profits is retained in the operating companies, it is


appropriate for HoldCo to distribute all its profits to the shareholder and this is reflected in
the financial projections for HoldCo.

The HoldCo Group’s dividend policy should be agreed with Government and documented
in the Performance Contract.

8.2.2 Financial Projections

Projected financial statements are presented in Exhibit 8.1. The balance sheet for 2009 is
the opening balance sheet as at 1 July 2009. These projections are based on the FRRP
(which was prepared in 2005), with subsequent incorporation of the above points.
Changes that have occurred since the time the FRRP was prepared that are not
specifically noted in the above points have not been reflected in these projections.

The projections allow for some small growth in operating costs over the period, all of
which are recharged to SubCos.

HoldCo’s profitability is low. It averages one per cent during FYs 2010-2012 and just over
four per cent over the following three years. This reflects the projected dividend paying
ability of SubCos.

Exhibit 8.1: HoldCo’s Projected Financial Statements FYs 2010-2015

Item 2009 OBS 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Income Statements
Dividends received 788 1 221 1 505 5 255 2 804 5 574
Recharges 52 54 56 58 61 63
less
Personnel & admin 50 52 55 57 60 62
Depreciation 2 1 1 1 1 1
Taxation 118 183 225 788 420 846
Net profit M Tk 670 1 038 1 280 4 467 2 384 4 728
Balance Sheets
Working capital 5 5 5 7 8 9 10
Fixed assets 10 10 10 8 7 6 5
Investments 90 600 90 600 90 600 90 600 90 600 90 600 90 600
Total Capital Employed M Tk 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615

Paid in capital 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615


Retained profits
Shareholders'Funds M Tk 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615
Cash Flows
Funds from operations 672 1 039 1 281 4 468 2 385 4 729
Decrease in working capital
Capital paid in 15
Total funds available M Tk 15 672 1 039 1 281 4 468 2 385 4 729

Increase in working capital 5 1 1 1 1


Dividends paid 670 1 038 1 280 4 467 2 384 4 728
Capital expenditure 10 2 1
Total funds applied M Tk 15 672 1 039 1 281 4 468 2 385 4 729

8-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

8.3 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PROCESSES

The principal financial management processes of HoldCo are:


• Planning and arranging Group finances (where not delegated to SubCo)
• Monitoring Group finances and financial results
• Protecting Group assets

Provision also needs to be made for accounting and budgetary control of HoldCo’s own
income and expenses, asset register, management reporting, filing financial returns, etc.

HoldCo’s financial management structure should provide for the following functions:
• HoldCo financial accounting and consolidation of group financial
statements
• Group financial and operational budgeting and performance reporting,
monthly, quarterly and annually
• Group internal audit and risk management
• Group taxation, insurance, & compliance
• Oversight of group financial accounting systems
• Eventually, Group treasury operations.

The last two functions are expected to evolve as the working relationships between
HoldCo and SubCos are developed and as the Group becomes progressively more reliant
on its own ability to finance growth. Financial planning will involve close consultation with
Government while the Group continues to remain dependent on it to fund the Group’s
cash deficits.

8.3.1 Planning and Arranging (where not delegated to SubCo) Group Finances

Planning and arranging Group finances – especially for new capital expenditure - is one of
the principal functions of HoldCo. It is a function currently not performed in any systematic
fashion across the Bangladesh power sector. Given the limited availability of capex
funding for the sector relative to its needs, this is a critical function, necessary to optimize
the allocation of these scarce financial resources.

HoldCo would prioritize capex projects proposed by the subsidiaries based on the
overarching sector-level objectives laid out in its performance contract with the
Government, and serve as the clearinghouse or coordinator between the SubCos and
Government for securing these funds. This financial planning process entails the following
activities:

• Establish procedures, including economic and financial evaluation


analysis and criteria/thresholds, for approving capital investment
proposals from SubCos

• Review and critique the system plan, including investments in generation,


transmission and distribution. Determine linkages and dependencies
between plan elements.

8-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

• Consolidate subsidiary projections and financing plans–capex, new loans,


drawdowns, repayments – in light of the system plan.

• Solicit / identify sources of capex, including the Government and


development partners, available to fund the system plan, and the terms of
this funding.

• Screen and prioritize SubCos’ capex proposals relative to the funds


available, taking into account linkages and dependencies between all
elements of the system plan, as well as relative contribution of each
proposed capital project to achieving the overarching sector-level targets
agreed in the performance contract between HoldCo and Government26.

• Prepare a draft financial plan, describing which projects will be financed,


by whom, and on what terms

• Present and drive consensus for the plan among Government, SubCos,
and Development Partners.

• Facilitate implementation of the plan. The Government will naturally


retain, at least initially, the role as principal financial conduit to the Group
by lending and disbursing funds directly to the SubCos in accordance with
the agreed plan. However, over time, the Government could increasingly
begin to provide funds to HoldCo as debt and equity, in accordance with
the agreed financial plan, and with full accountability for results per the
performance contract. HoldCo would then on-lend or capitalize SubCos
with the funds it receives.

Instead of vesting this function in HoldCo, it could be developed within Government.


However, there are two principal problems with doing so:

• Government does not have the personnel. Execution of this function


requires commercial and financial skills that Government does not
currently have.

• Presumably, Government could try to hire such personnel and develop


this function. But

o This would be contrary to the objectives of reducing Government’s


role in the sector, increasing autonomy of operating companies,
and promoting a more commercial orientation throughout the
sector.

o Government does not have, and is unlikely to ever have, a


“performance contract” for personnel working within it.
Consequently, it Government were to take on such a role, it would
not be subject to the transparency or accountability that would
apply if the role were vested with a corporatized entity subject to a

26
In fact, there may be iteration between the setting of targets in the Government-HoldCo
performance contract, and agreement on the amount of capex to be provide to the Group, as the
feasibility of achieving targets depends in part on the financial resources extended to the Group.

8-6
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

performance contract and other mechanisms of good corporate


governance.

While the poor financial performance of the sector necessitates the Government’s
continued role in funding it (i.e. operating companies are unable to go to the international
or domestic capital markets for funds), the Government’s current modality of vetting
funding on a project-by-project basis is incompatible with the fundamental objectives of
power sector reform in Bangladesh, and provides continued opportunity for abuse of
power and graft (as there is no transparent performance contract mechanism in place).
The idea therefore is to transform Government’s current role as a CFO for the sector to
become the bank to the sector. The authority to allocate funds must coincide with
accountability for performance. This transformation will happen in stages over time.

Currently, BPDB depends 100% on Government (including foreign sources) for capex
financing; PGCB depends on Government for about 80%. The Planning Commission
allocates capex budget to BPDB and PGCB on a line-item (project-by-project) basis.
Disbursed but unspent budget must be returned to the Government at year end. This
current process is shown in Exhibit 8.2.

Government can still discharge its fiduciary responsibility through a performance contract
with HoldCo. And in the interests of moving towards greater commercial-orientation, capex
financing should be provided as true corporate debt and equity, not as a “use it or lose it”
project-based line-item budget.

Exhibit 8.2: Current BPDB Funding Process

Other sector
Project Transmission Proposed
organizations PC guidelines PGCB Plan
PGCB ADP

Load forecast Project


inputs guidelines

Load System Proposed


BPDB Forecast
BPDB Plan
BPDB ADP
MPEMR

Proposed
ADP

ADP = Annual Development Plan


PC
PC = Planning Commission
Revised Final
program
BPDB ADP

Revised
program
PGCB

Exhibit 8.3 depicts how HoldCo might eventually function.

• SubCos develop investment plans corresponding to the system plan

• For portions they cannot finance from capital markets or out of cash flow, they
request funding from HoldCo.

8-7
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

• HoldCo receives debt & equity from Government under terms of its performance
contract.

• HoldCo prioritizes subsidiary funding requests, and allocates debt and equity to
SubCos under terms of the HoldCo-SubCo performance contracts

• HoldCo coordinates sector development activities through the fund allocation


process

Exhibit 8.3: Ultimate Vision for HoldCo Financial Planning and Funding

Performance
contract
Sector Debt &
MPEMR Debt &
MOF Block
equity HoldCo equity
& other shareholders
Grant allocations
Dividends
Performance
Dividends contracts
Single Load Single System Investment
Forecast Plan
Subsidiaries Plans
Buyer Buyer
Subsidiaries

Revised
programs

Appendix I describes these arrangements in further detail. Again, as discussed above,


evolution towards these arrangements would happen over time, with the Government still
providing funds directly to the subsidiaries, but according to a financing plan prepared by
and agreed with HoldCo.

8.3.2 Monitoring Group Finances and Financial Results


• Update medium term financial projections and short term cash flow
budget
• Monitor net position
• Act to deposit temporary surpluses or obtain temporary short term
accommodation
• Prepare HoldCo consolidated Group financial statements including
budgetary comparisons

8.3.3 Protecting Group assets


• Ensure adequate asset management records, plans and procedures exist
• Ensure that effective risk management identification, appraisal, mitigation
and reporting procedures exist and are carried out
• Supervise group internal audit and risk management functions

8.4 DIVESTMENT OF OPERATIONS OR SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES

HoldCo may sell shares in a SubCo for various reasons, e.g., to raise capital, to secure a
strategic alliance with a new shareholder, or to implement Government policy to make
shares available for trading in the share market. It may sell more or less than a controlling

8-8
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

interest or divest itself of its complete interest. As indicated in the draft Articles of
Association, such divestiture requires shareholder (i.e. Government) approval.

The main financial criterion for divestment should be that the sum received for the sale of
shares in a SubCo exceeds the net worth to HoldCo of the expected future cashflows. If it
vacates a controlling interest it also needs to be clear that the independent company will
continue to play its part in the development of the power sector and in meeting customer
demand.

The divestment process for a controlling interest should include reports by independent
investment advisers (with independent technical support, if necessary) on:
• the options for divestment, e.g., a public offering, a trade sale, a sale to a
‘cornerstone’ shareholder; and the costs and benefits of each option
• an appraisal of bids for the shares, should such be sought, and an
opinion on the preferred bid
• the fairness of the consideration to the vendor, HoldCo – the aim should
always be to maximize the return to the shareholder.

Sale of a minority interest should also be subject to independent reports on the fairness of
the consideration. In either case, it may be desirable to make use of the resources and
experience of the Privatization Commission.

The legal requirements for divestment of shares in subsidiaries HoldCo are similar to
those described for the acquisition of shares in Section 3.2.6, Acquisition of Shares in
Power Companies.

8.4.1 Non-Core Activities

Non-core activities of BPDB should not be transferred to HoldCo or one of its proposed
subsidiaries unless there is a clear and demonstrable advantage in so doing. Advantage
should be taken of the resources and experience of the Privatization Commission to
facilitate the disposal of non-core activities in the event no such advantage exists.

Some non-core operations of BPDB lend themselves to incorporation as companies to


operate as profit centers, either wholly or partially owned or completely divested as may
be expedient. They include:
• Maintenance and minor construction works: civil, electrical, mechanical
• Technical training
• Pole manufacture
• Dhaka and Chittagong computer operations (if not taken over by a new
distribution company–even then disposal to an IT facilities manager could
well be investigated)

These could be placed in one (or more) “Services Company”. The migration described in
Chapter 2 anticipates creation of such a subsidiary.

Some activities may be contracted out:


• Office cleaning
• Printing

8-9
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
8. Financial Management. . .

• Security
• Clearing/logistics offices

BPDB should set up a small cell to identify candidates for divestment and recommend that
Government include them among public industrial or commercial units to be notified to the
Privatization Commission for privatization. If accepted, the Commission will in due course
call upon BPDB to assist it to plan and execute the divestment of non-core activities.

BPDB’s tasks may include assisting the Commission to:


• Define discrete non-core work/asset ‘packages’
• Evaluate options for disposal, e.g., sell to employees, incorporate and sell
shares, put up for tender
• For the clearing and logistics activities, prepare a specification of
requirements and advising on tenders from qualified firms
• For the pole factories and printing works, prepare an Investment
Memorandum that sets out the scope of the business including potential
customers and competitors, the assets, staff, etc, and inviting expressions
of interest from likely investors
• Execute the privatization plan.

8-10
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
9. MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM NEEDS

This section reviews the present use of IT in BPDB and its subsidiaries and examines the
expected functions of HoldCo to determine:

• the data to be collected from subsidiaries,

• the required IT application and support systems that the staff will use,

• the IT installation in HoldCo that will be necessary to support those systems and to
produce the management reports that HoldCo staff will produce/receive to monitor
and improve subsidiary performance and report to the Government

• the estimated implementation costs for the proposed IT installation,

• a proposed HoldCo organization structure to support the IT services to be


provided,

An implementation plan is included setting out the steps for HoldCo to follow once the
decision to proceed has been made.

9.1 CURRENT IT SYSTEMS IN BPDB

BPDB has more than 16 years experience with installing IT systems, principally in the
areas of consumer billing and customer accounting. This section summarizes the IT
systems currently employed in BPDB itself. The following section reviews the IT systems
in BPDB subsidiaries.

9.1.1 The Current BPDB IT Structure

BPDB head office (HO) IT manages the development and maintenance of the systems
using outsourced resources while the various data centers around the country perform the
actual systems operation. In some cases outsourcing contracts have been let to IT
organizations to provide operational support for some of the smaller centers.

Exhibit 9.1 describes the present structure of the BPDB IT operation including staff and
consumer numbers being processed at each centre. The manager of the BPDB HO IT
section reports to the BPDB General Manager Commercial as the focus for work to date
has been within the Distribution Division of BPDB. The GM Commercial reports to
Member Finance. Of these staff 16 BPDB officers have IT qualifications while the balance
are BPDB-trained operational and administration staff.

An overall staff allocation is established at 85 full time equivalents. The present staff
complement supplemented by contract and casual staff is approximately 140.

The HO IT expenditure, excluding salaries for the year to June 2007 was Tk 11 million.
The budget for the current year is Tk 50 million to take into account the need to develop
and update the present situation as covered in the Systems Development Plan as
described in below. Note this development plan includes replacement of Chittagong and
Comilla computers.

9-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
9. Management Information System Needs. . .

Exhibit 9.1: Current BPDB IT Structure

BPDB
Head Office
IT Section
36 staff

Comilla Chittagong 7 x Small IT


Processing Centre Processing Centre Centres
46 staff 59 staff

Consumers Billed by IT Consumers Billed by IT Consumers Billed by IT

250,000 450,000 500,000

By Dec 07 200,000

700,000

9.1.2 IT Hardware & Application Software for Billing & Collection

After an initial start in the early 1990’s that computerized billing and collections for 30,000
BPDB consumers, the Financial Management Upgrade (FMU) project funded by ADB
successfully installed a BPDB designed system in 2001. Since the completion of the FMU
project, the continued rollout of this system has been managed by BPDB’s Systems
Management Unit (SMU). This system is now processing 1.4 million consumers from
multiple locations. The last 200,000 consumers are expected to be transferred to this
system by the end of 2007. Basically the same system is also used by DESA to process
0.5 million consumers.

The two major centers in Comilla and Chittagong use IBM midrange RS 6000 AIX based
servers with associated peripheral equipment. These represent mid 1990’s technology.
The smaller centers use Intel Xeon PC based servers and peripheral equipment.

The package modified billing system was originally written based on an Oracle database
to operate in the main centers. A PC based billing system written in Oracle has later been
developed for the smaller centers with basically the same functionality as the system at
the large centers. In 2001 application systems for finance, purchasing, asset
management, cash management and loan accounting were also developed and tested but
have not been implemented.

9-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
9. Management Information System Needs. . .

A number of enhancements have been added to the billing system since first installed
such as:

• Adaption of the system to operate in a PC environment for the smaller


processing centers,

• Prepaid meters have been installed for 20,000 consumers in Chittagong, Sylhet
and Sirajganj,

• Remote meter reading for HT consumers,

• Option for consumers to make payments via Grameenphone,

• A data store of statistical data kept at HO for GM Commercial covering both


consumer and load dispatch information as well as enquiry and reporting
programs to access data,

• Development of office based LANs and a WAN linking 25 major offices,

• BPDB has installed approximately 850 PCs in distribution branch locations


throughout the country,

• Development of a BPDB Web page containing static data relating to HR, daily
generation and load shedding.

9.1.3 Other MIS Systems in BPDB

Other systems in BPDB HO are handled by manual methods supported by Excel


spreadsheets. These include:

• Financial management including HO consolidation

• Payroll

• Human Resource Management

• Purchasing and creditors payments

• Stores

• Job Costing

• Meter management

• Asset management

• Budgeting

• Operational reporting

Extensive use is made of Excel spreadsheets to collect, analyze and report data.

9-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
9. Management Information System Needs. . .

BPDB HO Planning section uses WASP to assist in generation production planning to


ascertain least cost options.

9.1.4 BPDB Systems Development Plan

The IT Section has had approved a Systems Development Plan for 2007/8 comprising 24
tasks that range from standard systems maintenance to hardware replacement and new
application systems development.

The main features of this Plan include:

• Transferring the last consumers to the billing system

• Extension of WAN/LAN connectivity

• Provision of e-mail connectivity to 500 locations

• Major hardware upgrade at main data centers

• Procurement and implementation of a Financial System

• Procurement and implementation of a Human Resource System

• Development of an Integrated Management Reporting System (IMRS)

The systems development plan is shown in Exhibit 9.2.

9.1.5 Observations on Current BPDB IT Systems


• The HO IT section has concentrated their endeavors on successfully implementing the
consumer billing system over the last five years. BPDB staff has been reluctant to
change from their previous manual consumer ledger system and in some cases the
manual system has continued to be run in parallel for 3 or 4 years before full
confidence in the computer system has been reached.
• Following the implementation of the billing system and the deployment of 850 PCs
used by some 2000 staff there is a reasonable level of computer competence within
BPDB staff.
• Although other software such as financial, reporting and stores systems were procured
as part of the FMU project these have not been implemented in BPDB.
• The mainframe servers in Chittagong and Comilla are reaching the end of their
economic life and replacements will need to be considered. The version of Oracle
software that underpins the present systems is out of date and no longer supported by
the supplier.
• A Chart of Accounts has been approved for use throughout BPDB but is still to be
implemented.
• A process for Identification, Verification, Valuation, Recording (IVVR) of assets and
store stock was carried out as at 30 June 2000. This work has verified and valued the
assets as at that time. Programs have been written and tested for a comprehensive
asset and stock management system and completed in 2005 based upon 2000 data
but implementation has stalled.

9-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
9. Management Information System Needs. . .

Exhibit 9.2: BPDB Systems Development Plan

• BPDB has had a number of instances of IT projects being started but not completing
because of capital, resource or management reasons which indicates the lack of
proper IT governance and an agreed IT strategic plan that is part of the overall
business plan.
• In some districts of BPDB the total meter reading, billing and collection functions have
been outsourced.

9-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
9. Management Information System Needs. . .

• The IT Section has managed to retain staff so today has a number of staff that both
understand the systems as well as BPDB business processes.
• The HO IT section handles all IT expenditure for BPDB. Any IT project needs to get
HO IT approval before commitment.
• The HO IT section approves any staff recruitment for any IT role in BPDB.
• IT section believes the implementation of the customer billing system and processes
has been responsible for reducing BPDB’s system loss to approximately 18% and
bringing average outstanding debtors to less than 3 months for the 25% of total
generation that is being distributed though BPDB distribution zone.
• When 100% of the distribution is taken into account the average outstanding
increases. For example DESA, as a bulk customer to BPDB, is outstanding
approximately 33 months.

9.2 CURRENT IT SYSTEMS IN BPDB SUBSIDIARIES

Further details of the IT systems in the BPDB subsidiaries are given in Appendix J.

9.2.1 West Zone Power Distribution Company Ltd

West Zone distribution has a mixture of billing systems. Some divisions still use the PC
version of the BPDB system that was implemented during West Zone formation. They
have their own PC hardware and software but rely on outsourcing to obtain system
support and operation of the system. Other divisions have their own PC hardware and
software that is operated by their own contracted temporary staff. Still other divisions have
their own PC hardware while software and operation is outsourced.

West Zone inherited at inception the existing system of monthly reporting of selling and
distribution activities called “Commercial Operating Statistics” that is still used.

West Zone has recently gone to tender for an integrated solution for billing and financial
systems although they also tendered unsuccessfully in 2004

West Zone has two engineers that oversee IT operation but is also advertising for
recruitment of dedicated program and systems support staff at the moment. West Zone
has had no formal assistance from HO IT since incorporation.

The “Tally” package used within West Zone HO for preparation of monthly accounts but
only manual systems are used within divisions.

9.2.2 Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB)

This company operates independently from BPDB and has a software system based on
spreadsheets that handle its own financial reporting needs. They have one staff member
with an IT responsibility to provide technical support for the desktops installed for
administrative and spreadsheet purposes.

PGCB compiles and sends daily load dispatch reports to BDPB via spreadsheets..

PGCB use the CYME package software for technical analysis and transmission planning
to determine least cost generation options for dispatch.

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

PGCB has recently acquired a package solution ‘Open Sesame” to maintain General
Ledger, asset management, accounts receivable, accounts payable. This system may
also be used for stores in the future.

PGCB maintains a SCADA system to supervise and control transmission and collect and
analyze technical data.

PGCB owns fiber optic cabling running through its HT lines that could be used for
telecommunications in the future. Bangladesh Telecom is considering leasing these lines
to enable diverse routing for their network.

9.2.3 Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Ltd (EGCB)

The generation subsidiaries have limited IT systems. No IT staff are employed. Daily and
monthly reports are produced using Excel.

EGCB have recently introduced a general ledger software package “Nikash”.

9.2.4 Ashuganj Power Station Company Ltd (APSCL)

Ashuganj has recruited a Deputy Manager for IT and has recently implemented the “Tally”
system for use in general ledger processing. All reports are prepared using spreadsheets..

9.3 IMPLICATIONS OF HOLDCO FUNCTIONS FOR IT/MIS

9.3.1 Introduction

As outlined in Chapter 3, HoldCo will be a small organization based in Dhaka that employs
highly trained staff for the purpose of financial planning across the Group, driving and
monitoring the performance of SubCos, and reporting on a regular basis to Power
Division.

Exhibit 9.3 shows again the HoldCo Value Chain will be as follows and require the
performance of the associated business functions.

Exhibit 9.3: The HoldCo Value Chain


Financial Planning Performance Management

Negotiate Negotiate Establish


Determine Monitor & Assist with
Understand Allocate GOB Subsidiary HoldCo
Available Report Remedial
System Plan Capital Performance Performance Personnel
Funding Performance Actions
Contract Contracts Targets

Exhibit 9.4 summarizes IT system requirements to support these activities.

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

Exhibit 9.4: Map of HoldCo Functions & Required Support Systems

HoldCo Business Function IT Support System


System Planning. Collect, comment & Document Storage and Retrieval system.
maintain system planning information. Administrative systems such as Excel
Relate Plan to available finance
Capex allocation. Compile, prioritize and Capex Management System to compile
monitor all subsidiary Capex plans. subsidiary Capex requirements and monitor
progress.
Manage HoldCo Finances. Manage General Ledger System to record and
HoldCo financial performance against report financial transactions against budget
budget. Consolidate Group financial and provide reports.
statements.
Consolidation System to process and report
subsidiary P&L and Balance Sheet
information.
Performance Monitoring. Monitor Information Management System that will
subsidiary financial and non-financial collect and store electronic and printed data
performance against targets in subsidiary from subsidiaries in a data repository. MIS
performance contracts reporting system that reports financial and
non-financial data from subsidiaries for the
purpose of measuring their performance
against their performance contract key
performance indicators (KPIs).
Web page to communicate up-to-date
HoldCo information to various stakeholders
including the public.
Legal Compliance. Ensure subsidiaries Compliance Recording System to collect
are complying with all legal requirements and report data to ensure subsidiaries are
for Health, Safety, Environmental, Labor, complying with all legal requirements.
Tax, Establishment, Accounting and
Industry regulations.
Information Systems Compliance. Subsidiary Information Technology
Establish group guidelines for the use of IT Systems Development Plan to collect and
and monitor subsidiary IT development and report data that subsidiary is following
performance. guidelines.
Human Resource Compliance. Establish HR management system to collect and
group guidelines for HR management and report data that subsidiary is following HR
monitor subsidiary performance against guidelines.
those guidelines. Manage and pay own
HR and payroll systems for HoldCo staff.
staff.
Remedial Action. Form project teams with Project management tools to manage
subsidiaries to improve performance in projects against project objectives and
identified areas. budget

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

To undertake its functions HoldCo staff will need to be supported by fast, reliable IT
processes. There should be a clear association between the business objective of
management and the information available to management.

HoldCo staff will need to collect electronic data and printed material at regular intervals
from each subsidiary, store it, analyze, take action and prepare reports based on the data
for presentation to the Ministry, Power Division and its own executives. These functions
should be supported by IT processes to assist the productivity of staff. The collected
information should be stored in a secure data storage environment that permits users to
extract data according to their authorization levels and format reports as required via a
HoldCo intranet.

HoldCo staff will require access to a secure IT system on their own desk that can be
accessed throughout the day. Printed data will be accessed from a central information
store, though over time this should be entirely digitized and available through a document
management system. The individual terminal will need to be connected to a secure
HoldCo Intranet that stores collected data and allows interchange of data and messages
between all staff in a fast secure and managed environment. The network will also require
access to the Internet to allow staff to interrogate other sources of data and to
communicate via e-mail with colleagues in Dhaka, Bangladesh and worldwide.

Exhibit 9.5 shows how the subsidiaries will interact with HoldCo and the IT systems which
it will use to support its business functions.

Exhibit 9.5: HoldCo Systems Overview

9.3.2 Application Systems

The following are descriptions of the IT application systems that will be needed to support
HoldCo staff in performing their responsibilities:

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

GENERAL LEDGER SYSTEM

• This system needs to perform two functions. The first is to account for the
cashflows and expense transactions through HoldCo via a chart of accounts to
provide monthly expense and budget comparison reporting for HoldCo itself.

• The second is to enable financial consolidation of all subsidiary reports to


produce a consolidated Profit and Loss (P&L) and Balance Sheet on a monthly
basis. The P&L should include comparisons with the budget.

CAPEX MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

• HoldCo requires system support to compile all government- and aid-financed


capex plans from its subsidiaries, store relevant supporting documentation,
review the capex plans against the enterprise system plan, assess priorities and
compile an integrated plan for Power Division and Planning Commission review.

• HoldCo must keep track of loan applications, loan receipts, disbursements and
re-payments. This information will also be required for audit purposes.

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (MIS)

• HoldCo needs to collect and store financial and non-financial management


information from each subsidiary that will be in electronic and printed form in a
data repository that can be accessed by authorized staff via the HoldCo Intranet
for the purpose of measuring subsidiary performance against targets and
reporting to Power Division. This system will use document management and
report generation techniques and be based on secure database software. The
system will collect data that support the Key Performance Indicators that
HoldCo will monitor for each subsidiary. The system will need to produce
regular formatted reports for circulation to HoldCo and Ministry staff and it will
also need to allow ad hoc enquiry to drill down to understand supporting details
and allow staff to generate additional reports using a report generator.

LEGAL COMPLIANCE SYSTEM

• This system will be a subsystem of the IMS for the purpose of collecting and
storing data from each subsidiary that ensures they have complied with all legal
requirements for Health, Safety, Environmental, Labor, Tax, Establishment,
Accounting and Industry regulations.

HUMAN RESOURCES

• Establish group guidelines for HR management and monitor subsidiary


performance against those guidelines.

• HoldCo will have its own staff but will still need to keep HR information and
produce and store payroll data in a small HR system.

• HoldCo will need a performance management system to measure the effective


performance of its own staff on a bi-annual basis.

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

• Utilize project management software to manage identified performance


improvement projects against project objectives and time and cost budgets.

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT TOOLS

• HoldCo staff will need access to a range of individual IT tools to assist their
productivity. Products such as Word Processing, Excel, PowerPoint and Internet
require to be made available. HoldCo will need to establish an internal Local
Area Network (LAN) or Intranet to connect all users to a server which will act as
a gateway to the internet via an internet service provider (ISP). The system will
need to include security to manage access, eliminate attacks by computer
viruses and Spam e-mails.

WEB PAGE

• HoldCo needs to establish a Web page that provides access to static data about
the group and available in the public domain. The web page can also be used
for electronic collection of regular financial and non financial data from
subsidiaries as a front end to the MIS system above. The following are to be
considered while developing the webpage :

o simple but impressive page ensuring smart interfaces that are easy
to navigate.

o Enable access from all interested parties including the public

o Regular update of current information

o Easy search facilities

o News grouped in a logical manner

o Security of access to prevent abuse

9.3.3 Data Required from Subsidiaries

HoldCo needs to have access to necessary data on a regular basis from each subsidiary
to enable it to perform its functions to drive and monitor subsidiary performance as well as
to inform Power Division of subsidiary performance. HoldCo must not get involved in the
day-to-day management activities of its subsidiaries or take over the role of subsidiary
management by collecting too broad a range of subsidiary data. On the other hand it
needs to collect enough data to effectively carry out its business functions.

Another benefit from requesting regular selected data from subsidiaries is that it will
encourage the subsidiaries to understand the data being collected knowing that it is also
being reviewed by HoldCo.

Appendix M suggests a listing of data requirements from each subsidiary type and the
frequency that the data will need to be submitted. These data items can be added or
deleted as experience dictates. Once these data items have been agreed they should be
included in the Performance Contract for each subsidiary. All these data items are

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

currently reported by these subsidiaries either to BPDB or to Power Division, except


system average interruption duration index and frequency index (SAIDI/SAIFI) for
distribution companies, which is not kept at the moment.

GENERATION

The following are items that each subsidiary generating company will be required to report
to HoldCo. A single report that summarizes all the generation under that subsidiary will be
required from Ashuganj, EGCB and all other generation companies developed as
subsidiaries.

• Operational data on a monthly basis including:


- MW of output per staff member
- Progress of maintenance plan for the year
- Notification of any metering disputes with other parties
- Progress of capital investment projects compared to plan
- Staff numbers and payroll costs
- Work related accidents causing injury
- Plant operating hours since inception
- Plant operating hours since last overhaul
- Unplanned outage of any unit
- Planned outage of any unit
- Average operating cost of generation
- Heat rate
- Generation dispatched and station use

• Financial results on a quarterly/monthly basis including:


- % return on net assets
- Energy billed, collected and overdue
- Financial statements (balance sheet, income statement, cash flow
statement)
- Net profit for the month and year to date compared to budget

• Annual data
- Audited Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet
- Internal and external audit reports
- Financial Budget for new year
- Capital projects investment plan approved and planned
- Maintenance program
- IT Development Plan

In addition, each generation company should provide HoldCo the following operational
data on a daily basis. The purpose of this data is not for HoldCo to become involved in the
day-to-day operation of the subsidiary, but to have a complete record of subsidiary
operations in case of queries from stakeholders about operating issues:
- The daily, weekly, monthly ahead forecast they supply to PGCB each day.
- Details of any major system problems experience during the day

TRANSMISSION

The following are items that the transmission company will be required to provide to
HoldCo:

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

• Operational data monthly


- SAIDI and SAIFI statistics
- Expansion, maintenance and IT projects progress compared to plan
- Notification of metering disputes with other parties
- Staff numbers and payroll costs
- Work related accidents causing injury

• Financial results on a quarterly/monthly basis


- Net Profit for the month and year to date compared to budget
- Wheeling charges billed, collected and outstanding compared to plan

• Annual data
- Audited Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet
- Financial Budget for new year
- Internal and External audit reports
- Capital projects investment plan
- Maintenance program
- IT Development Plan

In addition, PGCB should provide HoldCo the following operational data on a daily basis.
The purpose of this data is not for HoldCo to become involved in the day-to-day operation
of the subsidiary, but to have a complete record of subsidiary operations in case of
queries from stakeholders about operating issues:
- Grid availability/operations problems
- Peak demand
- Loadshedding / Unsupplied demand
- Days, weeks, months ahead forecast
- Daily transmission compared to load schedule
- Plant dispatch
- Export units to each distribution company

DISTRIBUTION

The following are the areas of reporting that the distribution subsidiary companies will be
required to provide to HoldCo:

• Operational data monthly


- Total energy imported
- Energy delivered, total and by tariff class
- System loss compared to forecast
- Number of disconnections
- Expansion, maintenance and IT projects progress compared to plan
- New connections this month
- Connection waitlist at end of month
- SAIDI/SAIFI statistics
- Number of customers per employee
- Number of customer complaints received during the month
- Average time to resolve complaints
- Staff numbers and payroll costs
- Work related accidents causing injury

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

• Financial data monthly


- Total energy billed
- Total receivables collected
- Collection ratio
- Collection/Import ratio (CGR)
- Net Profit for the month and year to date compared to budget
- Accounts receivable at month end by customer category
- This months collections compared to last months billing
- Receivable amount by equivalent month

• Annual data
- Audited Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet
- Internal and external audit reports
- Financial Budget for new year
- Capital projects investment plan
- Maintenance program
- IT Development Plan

In addition, each distribution company should provide HoldCo load shedding data on a
daily basis. The purpose of this data is not for HoldCo to become involved in the day-to-
day operation of the subsidiary, but to have a complete record of subsidiary operations in
case of queries from stakeholders about operating issues:

9.3.4 HoldCo Reporting Formats

HoldCo will need to develop MIS reports to monitor the performance of SubCos against
their performance contract targets.

Appendix K shows an example of a monthly report for the Ashuganj generation, Power
Grid transmission and West Zone distribution subsidiaries. These formats should evolve
or be developed further once HoldCo is formed and management appointed. Each
subsidiary will produce the report within an agreed timetable at the end of the month.

9.4 OPTIONS FOR IT DELIVERY

9.4.1 IT Support Options

HoldCo has a number of options to obtain the functionality defined by the above
requirements. The options range from HoldCo centrally providing all IT services for the
entire Group, to leaving IT to the subsidiaries and allowing each HoldCo department to
look after its own internal IT needs on an ad hoc basis. In the middle, HoldCo could play a
leadership role, and implement systems to facilitate data consolidation while allowing
subsidiaries to continue to develop and utilize their own systems. This spectrum is shown
in Exhibit 9.6.

In the course of the assignment, the consultants investigated how other Bangladesh
holding companies were addressing IT needs. PetroBangla was the only example found of
relevance. Currently, PetroBangla subsidiaries each have their own IT application systems
and IT staff. PetroBangla HO has a small IT function that manages the provision of IT
services to the HO staff through a local area network and internet connectivity.
Subsidiaries send daily and monthly data to HO for collection, analysis and reporting to
HO executives and MPEMR. A project is underway to implement a common stores system

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

at all locations and a project is planned to develop common General Ledger and HR
systems that will be installed in all subsidiaries.

Exhibit 9.6: Options for IT Delivery

PetroBangla offers one model of how HoldCo could evolve its IT function within the
spectrum of options.

At one end of the spectrum, for HoldCo to establish a central IT function would require
development and implementation of what would effectively serve as an enterprise
resource planning (ERP) system. This would be costly and disruptive for both HoldCo and
its subsidiaries. Moreover, the principal challenges faced by HoldCo and the sector more
generally are not going to be solved through implementation of an ERP. This would be a
distraction to the fundamental issues that HoldCo and its subsidiaries must focus on. The
subsidiaries already have legacy systems that perform their functions adequately, hence
this would be something of a ill-afforded luxury.

At the other end of the spectrum, for HoldCo to treat IT on an ad hoc basis, leaving it for
organic development, would make it more difficult (or impossible) to integrate in the future.
It would complicate HoldCo’s function of ensuring time and accurate data collection for
performance monitoring, and would fail its obligation to guide subsidiaries towards the
best performance possible.

The preferred approach is for HoldCo to provide some centralized guidance on matters
such as overall Group IT strategy, including IT principles and policies. While specific
standards and applications can be left to the subsidiaries, HoldCo can at least ensure that
each subsidiary follows an approach that will yield long-term benefits to the Group while
not interfering with the day-to-day operational IT requirements of the subsidiaries.

Since HoldCo’s own needs are not particularly large but are highly specialized, and since
there is not a well-developed IT outsourcing industry in Bangladesh, HoldCo should not
consider outsourcing all of its own IT needs but rather develop its own in-house capacity
with outsourcing for only specific development functions. As part of this function it will also
provide strategic IT leadership for the Group.

Strategic leadership can be exercised through an IT Development plan that could be


agreed with senior HoldCo and SubCo management on an annual basis. Such plans
could include:
• A statement of the Group’s key business objectives that IT can assist achieving

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

• A description of the present IT systems installed in the organization


• A description of the present network environment
• A description of the present IT organization structure
• A list of proposed IT initiatives stating how they will assist the Group to meet its
corporate and business goals. These initiatives should cover enhancements to
existing systems, development of new systems, expansion of the HO networks and
the Wide Area Network.
• The plan should cover a rolling 3 year period and include estimated cost, staff who
will participate in the initiative and expected timeframe
• Details of training requirements for staff to use the systems
• Policies on data security
• Architecture design and implementation principles, including technology architecture,
data architecture and application architecture.

The rest of this section describes the resources HoldCo needs to carry out these
functions.

9.4.2 Personnel Requirements

HoldCo will need a range of IT and management skills to support the proposed group IT
strategy development, IT systems and MIS reporting functions. As the provision of IT
services to support HoldCo staff will be vital for the success of the business IT will need to
be led by a skilled IT practitioner and manager who can participate with the senior
management group of HoldCo on an equal basis. In this section we describe the
organization structure that will be needed and the roles to be undertaken by the
participants. In the next section we indicate the training needed to enable the participants
to make best use of these systems.

The HoldCo IT section will need to be organized as shown in Exhibit 9.7.

Exhibit 9.7: Proposed HoldCo IT Organizational Structure

IT Manager

Manage section &


develop sector IT
strategy

IMS Officer Systems & Technical Support IT Training


programming.
Manage info. Operate the system Provide Technical
database & assist Implement and maintain training for IT staff
staff in accessing applications & technical reliability and HoldCo staff to
information develop reports use systems

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

HoldCo has a number of options to provide this support structure: it can employ the full
complement of staff; it can recruit for key positions; it can engage from the outsourcing
market; it can transfer from the present BPDB HO IT resource.

The roles of IT Manager and MIS Officer are roles that should be filled by HoldCo
executives who would fully participate in the overall management decision making of
HoldCo.

The systems and programming function could be outsourced to commercial IT


organizations in Dhaka based upon a complete specification of requirements. The
proposed systems could be based on packages adapted to the HoldCo specification or
specifically developed for HoldCo.

The technical support function will require competent engineers on site to attend to
security issues related to staff access to the systems, provide a HelpDesk response to
hardware or software problems and undertake system back-ups on a regular basis. Given
that HoldCo is not a large organization, this could probably be covered by one or two
HoldCo IT staff.

ROLE FOR IT MANAGER

Major roles for this position will be to provide IT leadership to HoldCo and the Group; lead
IT strategy in the subsidiary companies and manage the HoldCo IT section in the
collection, storage and reporting of subsidiary information. The IT Manager will be a
member of the senior management team and play a leading role in driving the strategy of
HoldCo.

ROLE FOR MIS OFFICER

Major roles for this position will be to manage and understand HoldCo’s database of
electronic and printed information, ensure its accuracy and secure it against damage,
understand the subsidiaries business processes and assist staff to access data for
reporting purposes.

ROLE FOR SYSTEMS & PROGRAMMING

Major roles will be to analyze needs, develop and maintain systems for HoldCo, select,
implement and maintain application package software.

ROLE FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Major roles will be to implement and maintain new hardware at HoldCo premises; provide
day to day supervision of the network and systems, provide a Help Desk to assist users
resolve system faults and handle any bulk data input.

ROLE FOR IT TRAINING

This role will be delivered in conjunction with the HR function. It will ensure all staff are
competent to use the available systems to undertake their own business processes. A four
terminal training room has been included in the configuration to enable live training to be
undertaken to best simulate the real working conditions.

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

9.4.3 Training

When HoldCo staff are given IT tools it is important to ensure they are properly trained to
use them at an individual level. HoldCo executives will need to develop their own
computer literacy skills. A series of training courses will be provided for all initial staff and
new recruits during their induction phase to ensure they understand the data that is
maintained by the system and how to access and manipulate it. PA recommends that a
training centre is established with four screens and keyboards that can be dedicated to the
training function. This facility can be used for both IT and general in house training. IT
training will be coordinated by HR.

Essential training will include:

A. BASIC TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

• Access and password security

• General hardware awareness of PC, printer and scanner

• Data security and back up

• Courses for:

- Using e-mail

- Accessing the Internet

- Using Excel

- Accessing and storing data in the repository

- Using PowerPoint

- Using Word Processing

B. FUNCTION SPECIFIC TRAINING

- Application system specific training in accordance with work needs.

9.4.4 IT Infrastructure

Exhibit 9.8 shows a draft network layout plan for an installation for the HoldCo building
that will need to be revised when the actual site has been chosen and planned staff
numbers are finalized. This draft allows for a secure server room and 32 user screens
supported by printer and a scanner for every five user screens. Provision has been made
for the inclusion of 5 laptop computers for off site executive use.

The overall specification includes:

• Allow for 32 users on two floors


• Allow a printer every 5 users
• Include 1 x high speed printer for bigger print runs
• Include scanners every 5 users

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

• Include an computer enabled overhead projector


• Include a server to manage all devices
• Plan a LAN to connect all devices
• Include a central data store
• Provide auto backup to another secure device
• Provide access to an ISP
• Provide a Firewall for security against virus
• Allow password control for all users
• Allow 4 x PCs for senior management to user
• Include 4 x ports to enable PCs to plug into the office network
• Design system so it can be expanded to 60 users

Once HoldCo is formed a revised version of these specifications can be used as part of a
tender document to select a vendor for this equipment and supporting services.

9.5 IT IMPLEMENTATION COSTS

Exhibit 9.9 estimates the costs involved in implementing the hardware, network
connectivity, systems software and building costs for wiring and server room air
conditioning. It does not cover application software development. The number of items will
need to be adjusted in accordance with the staffing numbers employed by HoldCo and the
physical requirements of the building that HoldCo will use.

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

Exhibit 9.8: Indicative IT Configuration for HoldCo

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

Exhibit 9.9: Estimated IT Infrastructure Cost for HoldCo

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9. Management Information System Needs. . .

9.6 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

Once HoldCo has been formed and senior staff engaged the Implementation Plan in
Exhibit 9.10 should be reviewed, updated by the IT Manager, agreed by the senior
management team and a project to manage the implementation established.

Supplementary local consulting expertise should be engaged to assist the IT Manager and
MIS Officer during the development and implementation stages.

Exhibit 9.10: HoldCo IT Implementation Plan

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10. THE FUTURE OF BPDB

The foregoing chapters describe the structure and internal processes of HoldCo as the
corporatized successor to BPDB for the holding company function. However, this is just
one of several functions currently held by BPDB. This chapter describes BPDB’s evolution
and continuing role in the Bangladesh power sector after HoldCo is established.

10.1 THE IMPACT OF CORPORATIZATION ON BPDB STAFFING

Exhibits 1.9 and 1.10 show the current structure and distribution of manpower within
BPDB. In particular, Exhibit 1.10 shows the distribution of manpower according to the
Head Office (1,588 employees), Generation (4,141 employees), Distribution (6,420
employees) and Others (1,500 employees).

As described in Chapter 2, the Generation employees will be transferred eventually to


generation subsidiaries, while the Distribution employees will be transferred to the Central,
North or South Zone subsidiary companies. Employees of Others will be transferred to the
Support Services company, as described in Section 8.7.1. These categories represent
some 88% of current BPDB employees. Consequently, the vast majority of current BPDB
employees will be unaffected by the creation of HoldCo as they are to be redeployed
anyway into newly corporatized subsidiaries without loss of seniority or benefits per the
Government’s power sector reform policies.

The remaining 1,588 employees are based in the BPDB Head Office. Exhibit 10.1 shows
the distribution of employees by unit in the BPDB Head Office or associated field office.
Many of these personnel will be transferred to the Support Services (especially for training
or engineering services) or to Generation subsidiaries. These are shaded in solid blue,
and represent a total of 732 personnel. In addition, there are some units from which a
portion of the personnel could be transferred to Support Services and other subsidiaries,
with the balance retained in BPDB. These are shaded in the diagonal blue pattern.
Assuming that half of the personnel from these units go to the subsidiaries would account
for another 268 personnel.

Of the 588 personnel remaining in BPDB, some would be well-qualified to apply for
positions in HoldCo, e.g. personnel from the Total Quality Management (TQM) Promotion
Office and the Program Directorate would be good candidates for the Program & Projects
Department and the Financial Planning Department respectively. However, most of the
remaining staff are required to (i) help prepare the remaining BPDB operations to become
subsidiary companies, and (ii) to perform the single buyer function.

As noted in Section 2.4, this residual BPDB may be eventually corporatized as the single
buyer company once the prevailing PPAs have been assigned to the new entity. That
process would largely follow the same process as outlined in this report for the creation of
HoldCo. (The term “residual BPDB” refers to BPDB after HoldCo has been established
and generation and distribution operations have been corporatized).

The single buyer function, and hence the related personnel, would be required for as long
as Bangladesh maintains that industry structure. Personnel from units required for the
single buyer function are shaded gold in Exhibit 10.1. These account for 104 personnel.
Personnel remaining from the units with the diagonal blue shading would also be required
to support the single buyer function. Assuming retention of half of these 268 personnel
would leave the single buyer function with a total of 238 personnel.

10-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

In contrast, the need to prepare remaining BPDB operations for corporatization as


subsidiary companies is temporary. Eventually, perhaps over the next few years, the
remaining subsidiaries will be created and operationalized. The maximum number of Head
Office personnel potentially affected by this would be the remaining quarter of personnel in
the units with diagonal blue shading, plus all of those in the unshaded units. These
currently account for 351 personnel.

It is unclear exactly how many personnel would actually be affected by this. The expected
rate of attrition and retirement of personnel in these units, as well as the success of
personnel from these units transferring to subsidiaries is unknown. Provided BPDB does
not hire new personnel, it would be safe to assume that less than 200 would be affected.

This number could be retained within one or more of the successor companies without
significantly compromising the financial performance of those companies. More generally,
these changes should be implemented within the context of a communications plan, as
described in Supplemental Appendix H.

One of the most recent major VRS schemes in Bangladesh was conducted in the middle
of 2007 as part of the Biman restructuring. Out of some 5,000 employees, management
set a target of VRS uptake of approximately 1,600. In fact, 2,267 employees submitted
applications, which management then screened down to 1,877. While this initially
appeared to be a successful VRS program, hundreds of employees are now suing the
company to get their jobs back, asserting that they were coerced into taking the VRS
packages. Introducing a VRS scheme in the wake of this experience could result in more
problems than it solves, and would need to be carefully considered. Given the limited
number of employees who potentially could be eligible for such a program as part of the
corporatization of BPDB, it may be best to simply absorb them into successor companies,
with retraining as required.

Exhibit 10.1: Composition of BPDB Head Office

No. Name of the Office Set Current Vacant


up Staffing Post
1. Central Secretariat, Wapda Bhaban, Motijheel, Dhaka. 113 105 8
2. Personnel Directorate, Wapda Bhaban, Motijheel, Dhaka. 77 55 22
3. Estate & Transport Directorate, Dhaka. 161 121 40
4. Security & Enquiry Directorate, Dhaka. 81 53 28
5. Public Relation Directorate, Dhaka. 30 24 6
6. Labor & Welfare Directorate, Dhaka. 43 28 15
7. Enquiry & Discipline Directorate, Dhaka. 31 19 12
8. Purchase Directorate, Dhaka. 48 40 8
9. Chief Medical Officer, Dhaka. 14 7 7
10. Press, Dhaka. 58 32 26
11. Organization and Management (O&M) Directorate, Dhaka. 28 19 9
12. Training Directorate, Dhaka. 38 30 8
13. Trusties Board, Dhaka. 12 10 2
14. Contract & Advisor, Administration, Dhaka. 21 15 6
15. Accounts Directorate, Dhaka. 94 55 39

10-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

16. Finance Directorate, Dhaka. 83 58 25


17. Audit Directorate, Dhaka. 82 52 30
18. Central Overhead Accounting Cell (COAC), Dhaka. 48 26 22
19. Regional Accounts Officer (P&CO), Dhaka. 39 22 17
20. Energy Auditing unit, Dhaka. 24 20 4
21. Design & Inspection-1, Dhaka. 32 27 5
22. Design & Inspection-2, Dhaka. 52 39 13
23. Design & Inspection-3, Dhaka. 38 24 14
24. System Planning Directorate, Dhaka. 44 21 23
25. Chief Engineer (P&D), Dhaka. 13 9 4
26. TQM Promotion Officer, Dhaka. 8 7 1
27. Controller, Accounts & Finance Directorate, Dhaka. 90 62 28
28. Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Directorate, Dhaka. 33 17 16
29. Program Directorate, Dhaka. 35 24 11
30. General Manager (Commercial), Dhaka. 55 39 16
31. Repair, Rehabilitation and Augmentation of Grid Substations 24 14 10
(RRAGS) (East), Dhaka. (NB, this project is now complete)
32. Chief Engineer (Project), Dhaka. 25 14 11
33. Project Planning Directorate, Dhaka. 40 30 10
nd
34. Sylhet 90 MW CC (2 Unit) Project, Dhaka. 16 7 9
35. Chief Engineer (Service), Dhaka. 23 11 12
36. Clearance & Movement, Dhaka. 18 13 5
37. Deputy Director, Generation, Diesel, Dhaka 70 29 41
38. 450 MW Thermal Power Station Construction Project, Dhaka 15 5 10
39. Central Equipment Repair Shop (CERS), Tongi 152 111 41
40. GM, Training, Dhaka. 8 3 5
41. Chief Engineer, Civil Works, Dhaka. 18 13 5
42. Director, Civil Works Directorate, Dhaka. 16 8 8
43. Civil Construction Division-1, Dhaka. 102 63 39
44. Civil Construction Division-2, Dhaka. 60 39 21
Sub Total A 2112 1420 692
Attached Field Offices
45. Regional Training Centre, Tongi, Gazipur. 25 16 9
46. XEN, PC Pole Construction Plant, Aricha, Manikganj. 53 42 11
47. XEN, Regional Civil Construction Unit, Chittagong. 48 20 28
48. Chittagong PC pole Construction Plant, HaliSahar, Chittagong. 46 27 19
Sub Total B 172 105 67
Manpower finished project (C) 63
Grand Total (A+B+C) 2284 1588 696

10-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

10.2 FUNCTION AND STRUCTURE OF BPDB AS THE SINGLE BUYER

The most important function of the residual BPDB is that of single buyer. As the name
suggests, as single buyer is the sole offtaker (purchaser) of all bulk power produced by
generators. Conversely, it is the sole seller of bulk power to distribution/supply companies.

As noted in Section 2, transferring the single buyer function from BPDB to another entity
(even a corporatized successor) will require assigning the PPAs. This should not be on
the critical path for any restructuring program as it could result in lengthy delays. Hence,
BPDB should continue to serve as the single buyer until the PPAs are assigned to a
corporatized successor, at which point all personnel should transferred on an as-is,
where-is basis to the new corporatized entity.

The single buyer typically performs the following functions:

• System planning. It forecasts demand growth and determines the least


cost generation and transmission capacity additions to meet that growth. In
the new funding mechanism proposed for the sector, BPDB will prepare its
system plan as it does now, but then forward it to HoldCo for review and
funding analysis.

• Procurement. It procures new generation, typically on a competitive basis,


to meet expected demand.

• Contracting. It contracts with generators and distributors for the purchase


and sale of bulk power. PPAs will have to be developed for each of the new

• Settlement. It settles (i.e. invoices distributors and pays generators)


monthly for bulk power transactions.

BPDB currently conducts all of these functions except for procurement. While it
participates in the procurement process for new independent power producers (IPPs),
Power Cell leads this process on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh. BPDB
employees from participate with the Power Cell team for procurement and contracting.

Frequently the single buyer is kept separate from the transmission or generation
companies to prevent the potential for self-dealing, i.e. the conflict of interest that would
occur if an entity were responsible for both identifying least-cost investment and benefiting
from it. The structure envisioned here follows that approach.

The residual BPDB will not have an operating role for the physical delivery of power. It will
fulfill purely planning and commercial functions. Though it may participate in monthly
system operation coordination meetings with generators and PGCB, dispatch will remain
solely under PGCB’s National Load Dispatch Center (NLDC). The purpose of the monthly
coordination meetings will be to share information on the monthly load forecast, plant
operating costs, system constraints and scheduled maintenance so that the NLDC can
establish a supply curve against which merit order dispatch can be conducted. The BPDB
single buyer can contribute information on expected variable costs per the PPAs it holds,
as well as take note of forecast plant availability.

Following the organizational design principles presented in Section 4.1, the structure of
the BPDB Single Buyer should follow its value chain. The existing structure of BPDB
follows the electricity value chain, at least at a high-level. The structure shown in Exhibit

10-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

1.9 should therefore be retained initially. As remaining operations of BPDB are


corporatized, those branches of the organization will move to the subsidiaries. By the time
the corporatization of subsidiaries is complete and BPDB performs only the single buyer
function, all of the organizational units under Member Distribution and Member Generation
will have been spun off along with all training, engineering, and logistics units to the
Support Services company. The remaining organizational units under Administration and
Finance will slim down as personnel and in some cases, entire units, move to the new
subsidiaries. Ultimately, BPDB as the single buyer will have on the order of 200 personnel
and an organizational structure along the lines of that shown in Exhibit 10.2.

Exhibit 10.2: Structure of Residual BPDB as Single Buyer

Chairman
Energy audit, security
Secretary
& investigations

Administration Finance System Planning


& Development
Director Director
Personnel Commercial Director
System Planning
Director Director
Labor & Welfare Audit Director
Procurement &
Director Contracting
Accounts

Director
Finance

The functions of each department would be much the same as in the existing BPDB.

Chairman

• Secretary would perform the usual corporate secretarial functions

• Energy Audit, Security & Investigations will check metering, billing and
collections

Administration

• Personnel would handle the HR management cycle as shown in Exhibit 6.1

• Labor & Welfare would administer employee benefits

Finance

• Commercial would handle billing & collections, implementing the terms of


the contracts

• Audit would supervise audits

10-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

• Accounts would keep the books

• Finance would forecast future financial performance, especially cash flow


needs, and would help assess the modality for future generation additions,
i.e. as IPP or under state-owned generation company.

System Planning & Development

• System Planning will create the system plan

• Procurement & Contracting will prepare and supervise contracting for all
generation, and will support Power Cell for procurement of new IPPs.

10.3 POWER SYSTEM RELIABILITY IN THE CORPORATIZED ENVIRONMENT

Reliability of power supply remains a major concern for the Government and other
stakeholders. These stakeholders seek to understand how corporatization (in particular
the establishment of HoldCo and focusing of BPDB as single buyer) can contribute to
improved power system reliability.

Reliability depends directly on two sets of activities:

• System control and operations. In the short term (real time, hours, days
and weeks), system reliability depends upon the monitoring and
management of system operation. This includes dispatch scheduling,
control of voltage, frequency and stability, load shedding and restoration,
feeder control, real-time balancing of connected load and generation,
system protection, etc.

• Planning, procurement, construction and commissioning. In the longer


term (months and years), system reliability depends on preparation of a
feasible least-cost plan and the subsequent procurement, construction and
commissioning of generation, transmission and distribution capacity
according to that plan, as well as acquisition of consumable items like fuel,
on a timely basis.

This report presents several recommendations regarding planning and procurement that
are intended to enhance system reliability in addition to other benefits. These
recommendations include:

• Improved performance management among operating companies,


supporting timely implementation of investment plans (Chapter 3)

• Creation of a financial planning function under HoldCo to optimize


allocation of available capex funding (Chapters 3 and 8)

• In the longer term, introduction of new modalities for sector funding


(Appendix K)

System control and operations, on the other hand, are not directly performed or affected
by HoldCo or the residual BPDB functioning as single buyer. These entities provide
commercial functions, not technical functions. They are not responsible for physical
operation of the system. More generally, corporatization is about long-term management

10-6
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

of the power sector, not short-term operational control of the grid system. Both are
necessary for a successful sector, and they should be mutually reinforcing.

System operations should be the responsibility of PGCB (which includes the NLDC). It
must fulfill this responsibility by actively coordinating grid users, including generators and
distributors as well as any large consumers connected directly to the transmission system.
Standard international practice suggests that NLDC should convene monthly coordination
meetings attended by all generators (including IPPs), PGCB transmission, all distributors
and large direct consumers, as well as the single buyer. These meetings would review
planned maintenance, the operational load forecast, and cost inputs for merit order
dispatch. This would enable NLDC to prepare supply curves for each dispatch period over
the coming month, incorporating any dispatch constraints, as a basis for dispatch
scheduling on a merit order basis to the extent it is possible.

In addition, generators and distributors must follow the instructions of the NLDC. Certainly
implementation of Automatic Generation Control (AGC), transmission SCADA and
distribution automation systems can help centralize system control and ensure compliance
with instructions. However, such technology is not essential for effective NLDC control.
The fundamental requirement is that generators and distributors comply with NLDC
instructions regardless of how those are delivered.

Normally the specifics of such compliance would be documented in a grid code, which
ultimately would be enforced by a regulator. Although PGCB had developed a grid code, it
has not been fully introduced and the BERC is not yet in a position to formally adopt the
code and compel compliance.

These suggestions are consistent with the findings of the Fact Finding Committee
convened by Power Division to investigate the grid failures resulting Cyclone Sidr on 16
November 200727. That report concluded that there were both technical as well as
managerial reasons for the duration and extent of the system outages resulting from
Cyclone Sidr. Technical causes included unreliability of telecommunications facilities, poor
operator controls and displays, absence of AGC and inadequate number of self-starting
units. Managerial causes include lack of responsiveness by some generators to NLDC
instructions, imprecise or unheeded load allocation commands to/by distributors, as well
as poor internal processes and controls within NLDC itself (including absence of
contingency plans and emergency training).

Therefore, until a grid code is formally adopted and enforced by the regulator, the Minister
of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, or the Secretary (Power) as appropriate, should
establish a grid system operations committee, chaired by the head of system operation.
The instruction establishing this committee should:

• Identify members of the committee as the heads of the all generators


(including IPPs), distributors, and the single buyer (BPDB).

27
Fact Finding Committee formed by Power Division, Presentation on Report on National Grid
Failures on 16 November 2007, 30 December 2007. This report drew heavily on a technical study
conducted by the Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET).

10-7
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

• Establish the sole authority of NLDC to control the real-time operation of


the system, accountable for operational reliability.

• Mandate that that all entities connected to the transmission system must
take timely action on instructions issued by the head of system operation
regarding real-time operation of the system

• Compel members of the committee to participate in monthly system


coordination meetings chaired by NLDC, and provide information
requested by NLDC for planning system operations.

• Provide for NLDC to report member compliance to the Government


authority issuing the instruction, and outline penalties for non-compliance

System operation is but one element of the electricity value chain. Exhibit 10.3 depicts the
complete value chain.
Exhibit 10.3: The Electricity Value Chain

System Metering, Monitoring &


Load Financial Operations &
Procurement Construction Dispatch Billing & Remedial
Forecasting Planning Planning Maintenance
Collections Action

Ultimately, reliability of power supply depends upon execution of each element of this
value chain. The table in Exhibit 10.4 shows how responsibilities for performance of each
element of the chain may be allocated across the power sector entities described in this
report. The exhibit also indicates the document(s) that govern the execution of each
element of the chain. Not all of these documents have been prepared, but eventually the
sector will require the development of and adherence to these documents to guide each of
the sector entities in fulfilling its role.

10-8
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
10. The Future of BPDB. . .

Exhibit 10.4: Post-Corporatization Responsibilities Across the Power Sector


Value Chain Residual
Generation PGCB (incl. Distribution
Element BPDB (Single HoldCo
(Governing document)
companies NLDC) companies
Buyer)
Load forecasting Prepare Prepares, Each prepares For operational -
(Grid Code) forecasts of ensures bottom-up forecasts:
their own consistency of, forecast for own receives
availability and and distributes service area for forecasts from
potential output day-, week- both planning PGCB
for both and month- and operational For planning
operational and ahead time scales forecasts:
planning time forecasts for consolidates,
scales system checks & ensures
operations consistency

System planning Provides Provides Plans local Formulates -


(Grid Code, generation transmission distribution system least-cost
Planning Code) inputs to plan inputs to plan systems plan

Financial Proposes Proposes Proposes Provides least- Optimizes capital


planning capital capital capital cost plan details allocation from
(HoldCo MOA / requirements for requirements requirements to HoldCo Government
AOA) plan for plan for plan across entities to
implementation implementation implementation best achieve
performance
contract targets

Procurement Procures fuel & Procures Procures Works with Establishes


(Government spares, and transmission distribution line Power Cell to procurement
procurement may procure and grid sub- materials and procure new authorization
regulations, new capacity as stations sub stations generation and levels for
Tendering Code) authorized serves as PPA subsidiaries via
separately by counterparty shareholder role
regulator &
shareholder.

Construction Constructs new Constructs Constructs new - -


(Grid Code, other generation new distribution
codes & regulations) transmission

Dispatch Follows system Performs Follows system Provides cost -


(Grid Code) operator system operator inputs to system
instructions operator role instructions operator per
through NLDC PPAs

Operations & Operates & Operates & Operates & - -


Maintenance maintains maintains maintains
(Grid Code, AOA / generation transmission distribution
MOA of entities, and NLDC
contracts & licenses)

Metering, Billing Bills Single Bills Performs retail Bills distributors & -
& Collections Buyer for power distributors for customer pays generators
(Grid Code, Supply produced transmission metering, billing for bulk power
Code) services & collections supply

Monitoring & Internal Internal Internal Depends on Monitoring and


Remedial Actions monitoring and monitoring and monitoring and whether Single performance
(Annual: HoldCo performance performance performance Buyer establishes management of
MOA / AOA management to management management to performance SubCos in line with
Operational: meet SubCo- to meet meet SubCo- contract with HoldCo-
Grid Code, HoldCo SubCo-HoldCo HoldCo Government or Government
contracts) performance performance performance becomes SubCo performance
contract contract contract contract

10-9
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX A: TERMS OF REFERENCE

A-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

FOR THE

CORPORATIZATION OF THE BANGLADESH POWER DEVELOPMENT BOARD

OUTLINE TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR CONSULTING SERVICES

1. In close consultation with various stakeholders and in close collaboration with the
Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources (MPEMR), BPDB, and the task force to be
established by the Government to corporatize BPDB, the consultants will undertake, but not be
limited to, the following tasks:

A. Phase I

1. Legal and Commercial Aspects of Corporatization

2. The legal and commercial corporatization tasks will comprise all of the procedural, legal,
and operational requirements for establishing a corporation, effecting the transfer and insuring
that the company has the rights and authorities needed to conduct the business. The tasks will
include the following:

(i) Review the Memorandum and Articles of Association prepared for


registration of the corporatized company, and determine what, if any,
adjustments are required;

(ii) Review the current legal and regulatory framework in Bangladesh


applicable to corporatization of BPDB;

(iii) Review the existing organization and management structure of BPDB.


assess management systems including financing management,
personnel management, technical operations and inventory management,
etc.;

(iv) Review all relevant studies, reports, and policies related to corporatization
of power sector entities in Bangladesh including the final report of ADB’s
TA3343-BAN: Corporatization of the Ashuganj Power Station and ADB’s
report on Country Assistance Program Evaluation for Bangladesh (CAP:
BAN2003-03);

(v) Based upon existing conditions and the studies made above, suggest an
appropriate methodology and approach to corporatization of BPDB as a
holding company. This should include a timetable and schedule of
activities to be completed, and a clear assignment of
duties/responsibilities to ensure each step is completed. The
methodology should include legal as well as physical transfers of assets,
personnel, and liabilities;
(vi) Determine what, if any, additional legal documents and/or instruments
would be required to effect the corporatization of BPDB as a holding
company;

(vii) Recommend the roles and functions of the proposed BPDB holding
company;

(viii) Define the functions and responsibilities of the new company after
corporatization and the relations of BPDB holding company and its
subsidiaries with other entities in the power sector;

(ix) Identify transactions between the corporatized company and other power
sector entities in the post corporatization period; review existing power
purchase agreements and gas purchase agreements signed between
BDPB and other relevant entities; recommend any changes in the
agreements, if any, for use by the corporatized company;

(x) Prepared detailed functions, responsibility and organizational structure of


the Single Buyer after corporatization of BPDB;

(xi) Identify legal steps to be undertaken to transfer assets and personnel


from BPDB to the corporitized company, and draft the necessary legal
documents;

(xii) Review and design an effective organizational and management


corporate structure for the corporatized company and its generation,
transmission, and distribution subsidiaries with defined functional
responsibility;

(xiii) Define rules and responsibilities of the Board of Directors and


Management;

(xiv) Establish performance criteria, and develop a summary business plan for
the corporatized company; and

(xv) Prepare a strategic paper for offloading of subsidiary companies’ shares


held by BPDB;

2. Accounting and Financial Management

3. The scope of accounting and financial management tasks will include:

(i) Review the existing BPDB’s accounting system, internal control policies
and procedures, and recommend required improvements, if any;

(ii) Review of the general ledgers of BPDB to identify the relevant accounting
transactions and balances;

(iii) Complete a physical inventory count including fixed assets and inventory.
Assets should be categorized as operational or administrative;
(iv) Review financial structure of BPDB, such as assets and liability structure,
debt/equity ratio, identify existing contracts and obligations, and
investment needs; and identify issues related to transfer of assets and
liabilities to the corporitized BPDB; and recommend any actions to
address the issues;

(v) Appraise and recommend any adjustments to the assets and liabilities,
estimate the necessary working capital for the corporatized company and
prepared a proposal for the funding of the working capital requirements;

(vi) Prepare the disposal/divesture plan for the non-core business activities, if
any; and

(vii) Prepare financial projection for the corporatized company for the next 5
years.

3. Human Resources Management

4. The scope of human resources management in Phase I is to carry out a due diligence of
the organizational structure of BPDB, staffing issues, and employment rules and personnel
procedures. The tasks will include:

(i) Develop a realistic staffing plan for the corporatized BPDB, assess
BPDB’s existing staffing capabilities, and evaluate impacts of
corporatization on the existing staff of BPDB;

(ii) Prepare draft job descriptions and qualification requirements for key
positions of the corporatized company;

(iii) Propose a draft salary structure suitable for the corporatized BPDB;

(iv) Identify bottlenecks for transfer of employees from BPDB to the


corporatized company and propose solutions;

(v) Prepare need analysis of management training for the new managers;
and

(vi) Identify training requirements for the corporatized company’s positions, if


any.

B. Phase II

5. Building on the work conducted in Phase I and taking into account the comments of the
Government, ADB on the Phase I work as well as the outcome of the workshop, the consultant
will undertake the following activities during Phase II.

1. Development of Management Information System

(i) Determine the MIS system requirements for the corporatized company
including human resources management, physical asset management,
inventory management and financial management;
(ii) Design MIS system including determination of daily and monthly MIS
reporting formats to enable management of the corporatized company to
focus on key issues;

(iii) Determine hardware and software requirements (specifications and


budgets) for implementation of MIS; and

(iv) Determine staffing requirements and training needs of MIS personnel for
the corporatized company.

2. Assistance in Corporatization/Initial Operation

(i) Develop strategies to minimize the social impact of the corporatization


process;

(ii) Assist the Government and BPDB in conducting pubic


awareness/communication with stakeholders on the corporatization
process;

(iii) Finalize corporate governance issues including (a) the roles and
responsibilities of the Board of Directors, approval/authorizations,
stockholder rights; (b) financial operations such as funding, controllership,
banking/trustee; and (c) responsibilities, incentives, and accountability of
management;

(iv) Finalize human resources plans including (a) employee transfer scheme;
(b) voluntary early retirement plan; and (c) new employment terms and
conditions, and (d) organizational structure and staffing for the new
company; and propose recommendations on the issues related to
implementation of human resources plans;

(v) Finalize financial management operations including (a) identifying and


evaluating the assets and liabilities to be vested to the new company; (b)
establishing the debt/equity structure of the new company at the outset
and the share and loan capitals of the new company; (c) identifying the
required start-up or working capital for the new company; (d) projecting
an opening balance sheet for the new company when the legal transfer of
operations, employees, assets and liabilities is expected to take effect;
and (e) presenting a ten year corporate plan for the new company;

(vi) Recommend financial management operations including forecasting,


startup and long-term capital raising, and cash flow management; and

(vii) Finalize recommendations on divestment of BPDB shares in its subsidiary


companies.
APPENDIX B: HOLDCO MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION

B-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
The Companies Act, 1994
(Act No.XVIII of 1994)

A Public Company Limited by Shares

MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION

OF

HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED

I) The name of the Company is 'HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED'.

II) The Registered Office of the Company shall be situated in Bangladesh.

III) The principal objective of the Company is to own, establish, set up, found, form,
incorporate and promote subsidiary companies. Without prejudice to the generality of
the foregoing provision, the Company shall, in particular have the following object
and powers:

1. To take over, acquire and own the shares of the following companies, which are
engaged in the business of generating, transmitting, trading, supplying, storing,
distributing and/or marketing of electrical energy, or in the business of providing
support services for the above activities, namely:
a) West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited
b) Electricity Generating Company of Bangladesh Limited
c) Ashuganj Power Station Company Limited
d) Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Limited
e) Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited
f) Dhaka Electric Supply Company
g) North West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited
h) South Zone Power Distribution Company Limited
i) Central Zone Power Distribution Company Limited

2. To invest in the power sector in all or part of the equity of existing and/or new power
generation, transmission trading, supply, storage, distribution and/or marketing
companies, or in companies providing support services for the above activities..

3. To sell any of its investments in subsidiaries or other companies to others at fair


market value.

4. To merge with and amalgamate for the betterment of the Company with any other
company whose objects are or include objects similar to those of the Company,
whether by sale or purchase (for fully or partly paid-up shares or otherwise) of the
undertaking, subject to the liabilities of the Company or any such other company as
aforesaid, with or without winding-up or by sale or purchase (for fully or partly paid-
up shares or otherwise) of all or a controlling interest in the shares or stocks of the
Company or any such other company as aforesaid, or by partnership or any
arrangement of the nature of partnership or in any other manner.

5. To take part in the formation, promotion and/or supervision of any company (other
than subsidiary companies) or undertaking consistent with the objects of the
Company.

6. To acquire, hold, purchase, take on lease, exchange, hire, sell, transfer, let, mortgage,
pledge, assign and/or otherwise dispose of property, both movable and immovable,
including land or interest in land, buildings, easements, rights, privileges, concessions,
patents, patent rights, trademarks, trade names, licences, processes, machinery, plant,
equipment, stock-in-trade and any other moveable or immovable property of any kind
whatsoever necessary or convenient for the purpose of or in connection with the
business of the Company and to pay for the same either in cash or shares, with or
without preferred rights in respect of dividend, the repayment of capital or otherwise
or by any securities which the Company has power to issue or partly in one mode and
partly in another and generally on such terms as the Company may determine.

7. To enter into any partnership, arrangement for sharing profits, union of interests,
reciprocal concession or co-operation with any company, firm or person carrying on
or proposing to carry on any business within the objects of the Company and to
acquire and hold, sell, deal with or dispose of shares, stocks or securities of any such
company and to guarantee the contracts or liabilities of or the payment of the
dividend, interest or capital of any shares, stocks or securities of such company and to
subsidise or otherwise assist any such company.

8. To purchase or otherwise acquire and undertake all or any part of the business,
property and transaction of any company carrying on any business which the
company is authorised to carry on or which is otherwise suitable for the purpose of
the Company.

9. To establish or promote or concur in establishing or promoting any other company


whose objects include the acquisition and taking over of all or any part of the
business, undertaking, property, right, asset, liability and transaction of the Company
or the promotion of which shall be, in any manner, calculated to advance, directly or
indirectly, the objects or interests of the Company and to acquire and hold or dispose
of shares, stocks or securities of and guarantee the payment of the dividend, interest or
capital of any shares, stocks or securities issued by any such company.

10. To enter into any arrangement with any Government or other authorities (supreme,
municipal, local, statutory or otherwise) and to obtain from any such Government or
authority for the Company or its subsidiaries all rights, concessions and privileges that
may seem conducive to any or all of the Company’s objects.

11. To represent all its subsidiary companies in public financing matters, including
project finance, with the Government and all its agencies, organizations and
authorities concerned, including without limitation the Power Division and the
Planning Commission of the Government.
12. To negotiate with and obtain from the Government or any other lawful source on its
own behalf or on behalf of its subsidiaries funds and financing in the form of grants,
loans, equity or any other legally permissible form, and determine the allocation
thereof, including without limitation to arrange, borrow, raise, receive, seek, obtain
and accept grants, gifts, monies, funds, loans, donations, technical and financial
assistance and foreign aids of any nature whatsoever required for the purposes of the
Company from the Government, local authorities, banks and financial institutions,
foreign donors and international and other bilateral and multilateral financing
institutions, with or without security, for the Company and transfer such monies to the
subsidiary companies at agreed terms as and when deemed necessary and expedient.

13. To appoint, engage, employ, maintain, provide for, recruit, take on lien/deputation or
on contract and dismiss, terminate or discontinue the services of any chairman,
managing director, director, secretaries, managers, accountants, staff, employees,
officers, superintendents, advisers, consultants, attorneys, engineers, technicians,
experts, agents, clerks and labourers of the Company and to remunerate any such
person at such rate and in such manner as may be thought fit.

14. To appoint or nominate directors of its subsidiaries or other investments .

15. To make, monitor and enforce performance contracts with its subsidiary companies or
other investments.

16. To monitor and evaluate performance of the subsidiary companies, investments and
undertakings for continuous improvement and development of the affairs and
businesses of these holdings.

17. To hold powers of attorney in financial matters on behalf of its subsidiary companies.

18. To open and operate bank accounts (current, savings or otherwise) with any scheduled
banks or financial institutions and obtain the facility of overdraft, cash credit, term
loan or otherwise with such banks or financial institutions and to pay money from any
such account.

19. To invest and deal with the money of the Company, not immediately required by the
Company for the purpose of its business, in or upon such securities or investments
and in such manner as may, from time to time, be determined by the Company.

20. To draw, make, accept, endorse, negotiate, discount and execute promissory notes,
bills of exchange and other negotiable instruments and commercial or trading
documents.

21. To guarantee, indemnify or become liable for the payment of money or for the
performance of any obligation by any of its subsidiary companies in respect of all
debts, contracts and facilities granted or to be granted by any bank or financial
institution to any of its subsidiaries and to give any kind of security for the payment of
such money or the performance of such obligation by such companies and for the
aforesaid purposes to enter into any contract(s) of surety either alone or with co-
sureties and in any such contract of surety to waive all or any of the privileges to
which sureties are by law entitled and to secure, if necessary, any obligation(s)
undertaken by the Company as guarantor or co-guarantor or otherwise by mortgage,
charge, assignment or otherwise of the whole or any part of the undertaking, property,
assets or revenue of the Company, present or future, including its uncalled capital.

22. To prepare consolidated financial statements for the Company in accordance with
Bangladesh Accounting Standards and/or International Accounting Standards.

23. To appoint external auditors for its subsidiaries and ensure that their audit programs
are in accordance with Bangladesh Standards on Auditing and/or International
Standards on Auditing.

24. To co-ordinate, monitor and review the internal audit function in all its subsidiary
companies.

25. To monitor and review compliance with and performance of any performance
contract entered into between the Company and any subsidiary thereof or with the
directors of those subsidiaries, conduct any inquiry into or carry out an audit of
performance contract related issues, and review periodically the internal audit report
of any such subsidiaries.

26. To receive for itself by transfer from the Government, local or other competent
authorities, organisation, body, bank or financial institution, within Bangladesh or
outside, any project, equipment and/or assets whether movable or immovable.

27. To promote, organize, establish and maintain branch or liaison offices and agencies of
the Company in Bangladesh or in any other part of the world as may be necessary or
useful for carrying on the business and objects of the Company and to manage and
control such branch or liaison offices and agencies and to delegate such powers and
functions to such branch or liaison offices and agencies as may be considered
necessary.

28. To mortgage and charge the undertaking of all or any of the moveable and immovable
property and assets, present or future, and all or any of the uncalled capital for the
time being of the Company issued at a premium or discount and for such
consideration and with and subject to such rights, powers, privileges and conditions as
may be thought fit, debentures or debenture stock, either permanent or redeemable or
repayable, and to make and issue other forms of security and collaterally or further to
secure any securities of the Company by a trust deed or other assurances.

29. To subscribe for, buy, sell, hold in the name of the Company or any nominee, or
transfer shares, stocks, promissory notes, bonds, obligations and securities issued or
guaranteed by any body (whether corporate or not), person, association or
Government Authority (including legal agency or sub-division thereof).

30. To grant pensions, allowances, gratuities, bonuses and other benefits to the officers,
ex-officers, employees (including directors and ex-directors) of the Company or the
dependants or connections of any such persons and to establish, contribute to and
maintain or concur or join with any other companies, corporations, firms or persons in
establishing, contributing to and maintaining trusts, fund or schemes (whether
contributory or non-contributory) with a view to providing pensions, provident fund
benefits, sickness or compassionate allowances, life assurances or other benefits to
any such persons as aforesaid.

31. To sell, improve, manage, develop, exchange, mortgage, dispose of, turn to account,
let, lease (whether on rent, royalty or with share of profits or otherwise) and, in any
other manner, deal with all or any part of the undertaking, property, asset and right of
the Company and to grant licences, easements and other rights in or over the same and
to sell or dispose of the business, undertaking, property, right, asset, liability and
transaction of the Company (including shares, stocks, bonds, debentures, mortgage
and other obligations or any of them) and in any of such cases to accept payment for
the same either in cash (by instalments or otherwise) or in fully or partly paid-up
shares of any other company or corporation, with or without preferred or deferred or
guaranteed rights in respect of dividend or repayment of capital or otherwise, or in
debentures, mortgage, debenture-stocks or other securities of any company or
corporation, or partly in one mode and partly in another, or for such other
consideration and generally on such terms as the Company may determine and to
hold, dispose of or otherwise deal with any shares, stocks or other securities so
acquired.

32. To enter into and perform all such contracts as it may consider necessary or
expedient.

33. To train personnel, cause studies, surveys, experiments or research to be made and to
contribute towards the costs of any such studies, surveys, experiments or research
made by any other body, agency or organisation.

34. To support, conduct and arrange training programs, seminars, workshops and
meetings for the promotion of interaction amongst government organizations, trade
associations and similar types of businesses, professional societies, individuals and
institutions for advancing the objectives of the Company.

35. To become a member of and represent the Company at meetings of local, national and
international organizations and bodies concerned with activities connected or
associated with any of the businesses of the Company and to provide services of all
kinds to such organizations and bodies and to negotiate and enter into national and
international agreements in matters of concern or interest to the Company.

36. To pay all expenses incidental to the formation or promotion of the Company or any
other company promoted wholly or in part by the Company and to remunerate any
person or company for services rendered or to be rendered with regard to the same.

37. To do all such other lawful things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of
the aforesaid objectives or any one of them and to further the value and growth of the
Company.

38. To do all or any of the matters and things mentioned in the preceding paragraphs in
any part of the world and either as principals, agents, trustees, contractors or
otherwise and either alone or, as in joint-venture, in conjunction with others and either
by or through agents, sub-contractors, trustees or otherwise.
It is declared that notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing object clauses of the
Memorandum of Association nothing contained therein shall be construed as empowering the
Company to directly undertake the business of electricity generation, transmission, trading,
storage, distribution, marketing or supply on its own account.

IV) The liability of the Members is limited.

V) The Authorised Share Capital of the Company is Tk._____ (Taka ______ only)
divided into __________ (__________) shares of Tk._____ (Taka __________ only)
each. The Paid-up Share Capital of the Company is Tk._____ (Taka ____ only).
We, the several persons whose names, addresses and descriptions are subscribed below, are
desirous of being formed into a company in pursuance of this Memorandum of Association
and we respectively agree to take the number of shares in the capital of the Company set
opposite our respective names and hereunder subscribe to the Memorandum:

Names, Addresses, Number of Signature of Name, Addresses


Descriptions and Nationality Shares Subscribers and Description of
of the Subscribers taken by Witnesses
each
Subscriber
1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Dated : the ______ day of _______, 2007


APPENDIX C: HOLDCO ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

C-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
The Companies Act, 1994
(Act No.XVIII of 1994)

A Public Company Limited by Shares

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

OF

HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED

PRELIMINARY

1. The Regulations contained in Schedule-I to the Companies Act, 1994, shall not apply
to the Company except in so far as the same are repeated, contained or expressly
made applicable in these Articles or by the Act.

2. In these Articles, unless there is something in the subject or context inconsistent


therewith:
(a) 'Act' or 'the said Act' means the Companies Act, 1994, or any amendment thereto
or re-enactment thereof for the time being in force;
(b) ‘Annual General Meeting’ means the general meeting of the Company held in
accordance with Section 81 of the Act;
(c) 'Articles' mean the articles of association of the Company as hereby framed and/or
as altered, from time to time, by special resolution of the Company;
(d) 'Auditor' means any person appointed as an auditor under the Act;
(e) 'Board' or ‘Board of Directors’ means the board of directors for the time being of
the Company;
(f) ‘Chairman’ means the chairman for the time being of the Board of the Company;
(g) 'Company' means HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED formed and registered under
the said Act;
(h) ‘Debenture’ includes debenture stock, bonds and any other securities of a
company, whether constituting a charge on the assets of company or not;
(i) 'Director' means any of the directors for the time being of the Company and
includes any person occupying the position of Director of the Company, by
whatever name called;
(j) 'Dividend' includes bonus shares;
(k) ‘Energy’ means electrical energy, when generated, transmitted, supplied or used
for any purpose;
(l) ‘Extraordinary Resolution’ means a resolution, which has been passed by a
majority of not less than three-fourths of such members entitled to vote as are
present in person or by proxy at a general meeting at which the notice of the
meeting included the intention to propose the resolution as an extraordinary
resolution;
(m) ‘General Meeting’ of the Company means a meeting of the members and includes
annual general meeting and extraordinary general meetings;
(n) ‘Government’ means the government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh;
(o) 'Managing Director' means a managing director appointed as such for the time
being of the Company and is the chief executive officer of the Company;
(p) ‘Member’ is a natural or juridical person whose name is entered in the register of
members of the Company;
(q) 'Month' means a calendar month;
(r) ‘Power’ includes hydraulic as well as thermal power, electrical power, electrical
energy, steam, gas or any other power notified by the Government;
(s) ‘Proxy' includes an attorney duly constituted under a power of attorney;
(t) 'Register of Members' means the register of members to be kept pursuant to
Section 34 of the Act;
(u) 'Registrar' means a registrar or any other officer, by whatever designation,
performing under this Act the duty of registration of companies;
(v) 'Seal' means the common seal of the Company;
(x) 'Share' means a share in the capital of the Company and includes stock.

3. In these Articles, unless the context otherwise requires, expressions defined in the
Companies Act, 1994, shall have the meanings so defined and words importing the
singular shall include the plural and vice versa and words importing the masculine
gender shall be taken to include females and words importing persons shall include
bodies corporate and expressions referring to writing shall include references to
printing, typewriting, lithography, photography and any other mode of representing or
reproducing words in visible form.

PUBLIC COMPANY

4. The Company is a public limited company within the meaning of Section 2(1)(r) of
the Act.

AUTHORISED SHARE CAPITAL

5. The Authorised Share Capital of the Company shall be Tk.______________________


(Taka ___________________ only) divided into __________ (__________) shares of
Tk.__________ (Taka ____________________ only) each. The Paid-up Share
Capital of the Company shall be Tk.__________ (Taka ___________________ only).

SHARES

6. By an Extraordinary Resolution of the members, a maximum of 49% (forty nine


percent) of the issued shares of the Company may be offered to the public for
subscription from time to time. A minimum of 51% (fifty one percent) of the issued
shares of the Company shall at all times be owned by the Government or its agencies,
instrumentalities, corporations, companies or nominees, which cannot and will not be
offered to the public for subscription.

7. After shares are offered for public subscription by the Company, the shares which
have been offered for public subscription shall be classified as ‘Group-B Shares’ and
the shareholders holding the ‘Group-B Shares’ shall be classified as ‘Group-B
Shareholders’. The shares retained by the Government or its agencies,
instrumentalities, corporations, companies or nominees shall be classified as ‘Group-
A Shares’ and the holders of the ‘Group-A Shares’ shall be classified as ‘Group-A
Shareholders’. All the Group-A and Group-B Shareholders shall have equal rights.

8. Without prejudice to any special right previously conferred on the holders of existing
shares, the Company may, from time to time, by special resolution determine the
following matters:

(a) issue of preference shares whether redeemable or otherwise, deferred shares or


shares having special right; and

(b) restrictions that may be imposed with regard to dividend, voting, return of
share capital or any other matter.

ALLOTMENT OF SHARES

9. The Board of Directors shall, as regards any allotment of shares, duly comply with
such of the provisions of Sections 148 and 151 of the Act as may be applicable
thereto.

10. Any issue of further or new shares at any time shall be made in such manner so as to
maintain the minimum 51% ownership of the shares in the capital of the Company by
the Government.

11. The shares in the capital of the Company shall be under the control of the Board of
Directors, who may allot them or otherwise dispose of the same or any of them to
such persons in such proportion and on such terms and conditions, and either at a
premium or at par or, subject to compliance with such of the provisions of Section
153 of the Act as may be applicable thereto, at a discount, and at such time as the
Board of Directors may, from time to time, think fit and proper.

SHARE CERTIFICATE

12. Every person whose name is entered as a Member in the Register of Members shall,
free of cost, be entitled to a certificate under the common seal of the Company
specifying the shares held by him and the amount paid up thereon: provided that in
respect of shares held jointly by several persons the Company shall not be bound to
issue more than one certificate and delivery of a certificate for one or more shares to
one of several joint holders shall be sufficient delivery to all.

13. If a share certificate is defaced, lost or destroyed it may be renewed and a duplicate
share certificate may be issued on payment of such fee as may be determined by the
Board of Directors and on such terms, if any, as to evidence and indemnity as the
Board of Directors may think fit.

CALL ON SHARES

14. The Board of Directors may, from time to time, make calls upon the Members in
respect of any moneys unpaid on the shares held by them, provided that no call shall
exceed one-fourth of the nominal amount of the share or be payable at less than one
month from the last call and each Member shall, subject to receiving, at least, 14
(fourteen) day's notice specifying the time of payment, pay to the Company at the
time so specified the amount called on his shares.

15. The joint-holders of a share shall be jointly and severally liable to pay all calls in
respect thereof.

16. If a sum called in respect of a share is not paid before or on the day appointed for
payment thereof, the person from whom the sum is due shall pay interest upon the
sum at a rate to be determined by the Board of Directors from the day appointed for
the payment thereof to the time of the actual payment, but the Board of Directors shall
be at liberty to waive payment of that interest wholly or in part.

17. The provisions of these Articles as to payment of interest shall apply in the case of
non-payment of any sum which, by the terms of allotment of a share, becomes
payable at a fixed time, whether on account of the amount of the share or by way of
premium.

18. The Board of Directors may make arrangements on the allotment of shares for
difference between the holders in the amount of calls to be paid and in the times of
payment.

19. The Board of Directors may, at its option, receive from any Member willing to
advance all or any part of the moneys uncalled and unpaid upon any shares held by
him and upon all or any of the moneys so advanced may pay to such Member interest
at such rate as may be agreed upon between the Member paying the sum in advance
and the Board of Directors.

COMMISSION ON SUBSCRIPTION OF SHARES

20. The Company may, at any time, pay commission to any person for subscribing or
agreeing to subscribe (whether absolutely or conditionally) for any shares in the
Company or procuring or agreeing to procure subscriptions (whether absolute or
conditional) for any shares in the Company; provided, however, that the commission
shall not exceed 1.5% (one and a half per cent) of the value of the shares subscribed
for or to be subscribed in each case. The Company may also, with the prior consent of
the Securities and Exchange Commission, pay on any issue of shares such brokerage
as may be lawful; provided, however, that such brokerage shall not exceed 1% (one
per cent) of the value of the shares, debenture or debenture-stock paid up at the time
of issue.

LIEN AND FORFEITURE OF SHARES

21. The Company shall have a lien on the following shares and also on all dividends
payable thereon, namely:

(a) all shares other than fully paid-up shares, for all moneys whether presently
payable or not, called or payable at a fixed time in respect of that share; and
(b) all shares, other than fully paid-up shares, standing registered in the name of a
single person, for all moneys presently payable by him or his estate to the
Company.

The Directors may, at any time, declare any such share to be wholly or partly exempt
from the provisions of this Article.

22. The Company may sell, in such manner as the Board of Directors think fit, any share
on which the Company has a lien; provided, however, that no sale shall be made,
unless some money, in respect of which the lien exists, is payable in cash and a period
of 14 (fourteen) days had expired after a written notice, stating and demanding such
money, has been served upon the holder of the share registered for the time being or
upon the person entitled to the share by reason of the former shareholder's death or
insolvency.

23. The proceeds of the sale shall be applied in payment of such part of the amount, in
respect of which the lien exists, as is presently payable and the residue shall, subject
to a like lien for sums not presently payable as existed upon the shares prior to the
sale, be paid to the persons entitled to the shares at the date of the sale. The purchaser
shall be registered as the holder of the shares and he shall not be bound to see to the
application of the purchase-money, nor shall his title to the shares be affected by any
irregularity or invalidity in the proceeding in reference to the sale.

24. Where the Company sells any share in pursuance of the preceding Articles and the
former holder of the share does not deliver the share certificate for the share(s) to the
Company, the Board of Directors may issue a new certificate for such share(s)
distinguishing it, in such manner as they think fit, from the certificate not so
delivered.

25. If a Member fails to pay any call or instalment of a call on the day appointed for
payment thereof, the Board of Directors may, at any time thereafter as any part of
such call or instalment remain unpaid, serve a notice on him requiring payment of so
much of the call or instalment as is unpaid together with any interest which may have
accrued.

26. The notice shall name a further day, not earlier than the expiration of 14 (fourteen)
days from the date of the notice, on or before which the payment required by the
notice is to be made, and shall state that in the event of non-payment at or before the
time so appointed, the shares in respect of which the call was made will be liable to be
forfeited.

27. If the requirements of any such notice as aforesaid are not complied with, any share in
respect of which the notice has been given may, at anytime thereafter, but, before the
payment required by the notice has been made, be forfeited by the resolution of the
Board of Directors to that effect.

28. A forfeited share may be sold or otherwise disposed of on such terms and in such
manner as the Board of Directors think fit, and at any time before a sale or disposition
of the forfeiture may be cancelled on such terms as the Board of Directors think fit.

29. A person whose shares have been forfeited shall cease to be a Member in respect of
the forfeited shares, but shall, notwithstanding, remain liable to pay to the Company
all moneys which at the date of the forfeiture were presently payable by him to the
Company in respect of the shares, but his liability shall cease if and when the
Company receives payment in full of the nominal amount of the shares.

30. A duly verified declaration in writing that the declarant is a Director of the Company,
and that a share in the Company has been duly forfeited on a date stated in the
declaration, shall be conclusive evidence of the facts therein stated as against all
persons claiming to be entitled to the share. Such declaration and the receipt of the
Company for the consideration, if any, given for the share on the sale or disposition
thereof shall constitute a good title to the share. The person who becomes the
shareholder, under the provisions of this Article, shall be registered as the holder of
the share and shall not be bound to see to the application of the purchase-money, if
any, nor shall his title to the share be affected by any irregularity or invalidity in the
proceedings in reference to the forfeiture, sale or disposal of the share.

31. The provisions of these Articles as to forfeiture shall apply in the case of non-payment
of any sum which, by the terms of issue of a share, becomes payable at a fixed time,
whether on account of the amount of the share, or by way of premium, as if the same
has been payable by virtue of a call duly made and notified.

TRANSFER AND TRANSMISSION OF SHARES

32. Subject to such of the restriction of these Articles as may be applicable any Member may
transfer all or any of his shares by instrument in writing in any usual or common form or
any other form which the Directors may approve.

33. The right to transfer the shares of the Company shall be restricted insofar as to ensure
that at no times shall the number of issued and outstanding shares of the Company
held by the Government of Bangladesh, its agencies or instrumentalities fall below
51% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company, and the Company shall not
register any transfer of shares which will result in such a fall in number of the shares
held by the Government of Bangladesh, its agencies or instrumentalities.

34. The instrument of transfer of any share in the Company shall be executed both by or
on behalf of the transferor and the transferee and the transferor shall remain holder of
the share until the name of the transferee is entered in the Register of Members in
respect thereof.

35. The Board of Directors may decline to register any transfer of shares, not being fully
paid-up shares, to a person of whom they do not approve and may also decline to
register any transfer of shares on which the Company has a lien.

36. The Board of Directors may suspend the registration of transfer of shares during the
14 (fourteen) days immediately preceding the Annual General Meeting of the
Company in each year.

37. The Board of Directors may decline to recognise any instrument of transfer or refuse
to register such transfer, unless:
(a) a fee not exceeding a sum as may be fixed by the Board of Directors is paid to the
Company in respect thereof;
(b) the instrument of transfer of share is accompanied by the certificate of share to
which it relates; and

(c) such evidence as the Board of Directors may reasonably require to show the right
of the transferor to make the transfer has been furnished.

38. If the Directors refuse to register or decline to recognise the transfer of any shares,
they shall, within 1 (one) month after the date on which the instrument of transfer was
lodged with the Company, send to the transferee and the transferor notice of the
refusal or non-recognition of the transfer.

39. The executors, administrators or legal heirs of a deceased sole holder of a share shall
be the only persons recognised by the Company as having any title to the share. In the
case of a share registered in the names of 2 (two) or more holders, the survivor or
survivors shall be the only persons recognised by the Company as having any title to
the share.

40. Any person becoming entitled to a share in consequence of the death or insolvency of
a Member shall, upon such evidence being produced as may, from time to time, be
required by the Board of Directors, have the right either to be registered as a Member
in respect of the share or to make such transfer of the share as the deceased or
insolvent person could have made: provided, however, that the Board of Directors
shall have the same right to decline to recognise the transfer or to refuse or suspend
the registration of the transfer as they could have done had the transfer been made by
the deceased or insolvent shareholder before his death or insolvency.

41. A person becoming entitled to a share, by reason of the death or insolvency of the
holder, shall be entitled to the same dividends and other advantages to which he
would be entitled if he were the registered holder of the share; except that, he shall
not, before being registered as a Member, in respect of the share, be entitled in respect
of it to exercise any right conferred by membership in relation to the meetings of the
Company.

ALTERATION OF SHARE CAPITAL

42. The Board of Directors may, with the sanction of the Company in general meeting,
increase the share capital of the Company by such sum, to be divided into shares of
such amount, as may be prescribed in the general meeting.

43. The new shares shall be subject to the same provisions with reference to the payment
of calls, lien, transfer, transmission, forfeiture and otherwise as the shares in the
original share capital.

44. Subject to any resolution sanctioning the increase of share capital, all new shares
shall, before issue, be offered to such persons as at the date of the offer are entitled to
receive notices from the Company of general meetings in proportion to the amount of
the existing shares to which they are entitled. The offer shall be made by notice
specifying the number of shares offered and limiting a time within which the offer, if
not accepted, will be deemed to be declined and after the expiration of that time or on
the receipt of an intimation from the person to whom the offer is made that he
declines to accept the shares offered, the Board of Directors may dispose of the same
in such manner as they think most beneficial to the Company. The Directors may,
likewise, so dispose of any new shares, which, by reason of the ratio the new shares
bear to shares held by persons entitled to an offer of new shares, cannot, in the
opinion of the Directors, be conveniently offered under these Articles.

45. The Company may, by special resolution, reduce its share capital in any manner and,
with and subject to any applicable provisions of any law for the time being in force in
Bangladesh.

46. The Company may, by ordinary resolution:

(a) consolidate and divide its share capital into shares of larger amount than its
existing shares;

(b) by sub-division of its existing shares or any of them, divide the whole or any part
of its share capital into shares of smaller amount than is originally fixed by
the Memorandum of Association subject, nevertheless, to the provision of
paragraph (d) of sub-section (1) of Section 53 of the Act; and

(c) cancel any shares which, at the date of the passing of the resolution, have not been
taken or agreed to be taken by any person.

BORROWING POWERS
47. The Board of Directors may, subject to the provisions of Section 121 of the Act, from
time to time, at their discretion, raise or borrow from any source any sums of money
required for the purpose of the Company and raise and secure the payment or re-
payment of such sums of money or loan in such manner and upon such terms and
conditions in all respects as they may think fit and, in particular, by the issue of shares
or debentures or by making, drawing, accepting or endorsing on behalf of the
Company any promissory notes, bills of exchange, or by giving or issuing any of the
securities of the Company or by the creation of mortgage, charge or hypothecation on
all or any of the properties of the Company, both present and future, including the
uncalled capital of the Company for the time being or by giving or creating mortgage,
charge or hypothecation on any property of any third party as collateral security, and
the Directors may, on behalf of the Company, guarantee the whole or any part of such
loan or debts incurred by the Company with powers to secure guarantee against the
liability in respect of such loan or debts and, generally, to borrow money on such
future terms and conditions as may be mutually agreed to by the lenders and the
Board of Directors of the Company.

STATUTORY AND GENERAL MEETINGS

48. The Company shall, within a period of not less than 1 (one) month and not more than
(six) months from the date at which the Company is entitled to commence business,
hold a general meeting of the Members of the Company, which shall be called the
Statutory Meeting and in connection therewith, the Directors shall comply with the
provisions of Section 83 of the Act. All the existing Directors of the Company shall
retire at the Statutory General meeting and new directors shall be elected from among
persons selected by the Selection Panel in accordance with Article 73 below.

49. A general meeting of the Company shall be held within 18 (eighteen) months from the
date of its incorporation and, thereafter, once at least in every calendar year at such
time not being more than 15 (fifteen) months after the holding of the last preceding
general meeting, and at such place as may be prescribed by the Company in general
meeting. Such general meeting shall be called Annual General Meeting and all other
general meetings of the Company, other than the Statutory Meeting, shall be called
Extraordinary General Meeting.

50. The Board of Directors may, whenever they think fit, call an Extraordinary General
Meeting and Extraordinary General Meetings shall also be called on such requisition,
or in default, may be called by such requisitionists, as provided by Section 84 of the
Act. If at any time there are not within Bangladesh sufficient Directors capable of
acting to form a quorum at a meeting of the Board of Directors, any Director or any
two Members of the Company may call an Extraordinary General Meeting in the
same manner as nearly as possible as that in which meetings may be called by the
Directors.

PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETING

51. Subject to the provisions of sub-section (2) of Section 87 of the Act relating to special
resolution, 14 (fourteen) days notice shall be served specifying the agenda, place, the
day and the hour of meeting and, in case of special business, the general nature of that
business, shall be given, in manner hereinafter mentioned, or in such other manner, if
any, as may be prescribed by the Company in general meeting, to such persons as are,
under the Act or these Articles, entitled to receive such notice from the Company; but
the accidental omission to give notice to or the non-receipt of notice by any Member
shall not invalidate the proceedings at any general meeting.

52. In reckoning the 14 (fourteen) days the day on which the notice is served or deemed
to be served is excluded but the day for which notice is given shall be included.

53. In the case of a general meeting where a special resolution is proposed to be passed,
21 (twenty-one) days notice specifying the intention to propose the resolution as a
special resolution must be given.

54. All business shall be called special business that is transacted at an Extraordinary
General Meeting, but the sanctioning of a dividend, the consideration of the accounts,
balance-sheets and the ordinary report of the Directors and Auditors, the election of
Directors and other officers in the place of those retiring by rotation and the fixing of
the remuneration of the Auditors shall not be called special business.

55. No business shall be transacted at any general meeting unless a quorum of Members
is present at the time when the meeting proceeds to transact business and, save as
herein otherwise provided, 5 (five) Members personally present shall be a quorum.

56. If within half an hour from the time appointed for the meeting a quorum is not
present, the meeting, if called upon the requisition of Members, shall be dissolved. In
any other case, it shall stand adjourned to the same day in the next week at the same
time and place, and if, at the adjourned meeting, a quorum is not present within half
an hour from the time appointed for the meeting, the Members present shall be a
quorum.

57. The Chairman shall preside at general meetings. If the Chairman is unavailable to
attend a general meeting, the Board of Directors shall select one of their Members to
preside as Chairman at a general meeting of the Company.

58. If at any meeting the Chairman is not present within 30 (thirty) minutes after the time
appointed for holding the meeting, the Members present shall choose some one of
their number to be the Chairman of that meeting.

59. The Chairman may, with the consent of any meeting at which a quorum is present,
and shall, if so directed by the meeting, adjourn the meeting from time to time and
from place to place, but no business shall be transacted at any adjourned meeting
other than the business left unfinished at the meeting from which the adjournment
took place. When a meeting is adjourned for 10 (ten) days or more, notice of the
adjourned meeting shall be given as in the case of an original meeting. Save as
aforesaid, it shall not be necessary to give any notice of an adjournment or of the
business to be transacted at an adjourned meeting.

60. At any general meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting shall be decided on
a show of hands unless a poll is, before or on the declaration of the result of the show
of hands, demanded by 5 (five) Members present in person or by proxy or the
Chairman or any Member(s) holding not less than one-tenth of the issued capital of
the Company which carries voting rights. Unless a poll is so demanded, a declaration
by the Chairman that a resolution has, on a show of hands, been carried or carried
unanimously or by a particular majority or lost and an entry to that effect in the book
of the proceedings of the Company shall be conclusive evidence of the fact without
proof of the number or proportion of the votes recorded in favour of, or against, that
resolution.

61. If a poll is demanded, it shall be taken in such manner as the Chairman directs, and
the result of the poll shall be deemed to be the resolution of the meeting at which the
poll was demanded.

62. In the case of an equality of votes, whether on a show of hands or on a poll, the
Chairman of the meeting at which the show of hands takes place, or at which the poll
is demanded, shall be entitled to a second or casting vote.

63. A poll demanded on the election of Chairman or on question of adjournment shall be


taken forthwith. A poll demanded on any other question should be taken at such time
as the Chairman of the meeting directs.

VOTES OF MEMBERS

64. On a show of hands, every Member present in person shall have 1 (one) vote. On a
poll, every Member shall have 1 (one) vote in respect of each share held by him.
65. In the case of joint-holders, the vote of the senior who tenders a vote, whether in
person or by proxy, shall be accepted to the exclusion of the votes of the other joint-
holders and for this purpose, seniority shall be determined by the order in which the
names stand in the Register of Members.

66. No Member shall be entitled to vote at any general meeting unless all calls or other
sums presently payable by him in respect of shares in the Company has been paid.

67. On a poll, votes may be given either personally or by proxy, but a member company
shall not vote by proxy so long a resolution of its directors, in accordance with the
provisions of Section 86 of the Act is in force.

68. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be:

(a) in writing under the hand of the appointor, or of his attorney duly authorised in
writing, or:

(b) if the appointor is a body corporate, either under its common seal or under the
hand of an officer or attorney so authorised; or

(c) if the appointor is a Government ministry, under the hand of the Secretary to the
Ministry, so authorised.

69. The instrument appointing a proxy and the power of attorney or other authority, if
any, under which it is signed, or notarially certified copy of that power or authority,
shall be deposited at the registered office of the Company not less than 48 (forty
eight) hours before the time for holding the meeting at which the person named in the
instrument proposes to vote and in default the instrument of proxy shall not be treated
as valid.

70. Every instrument appointing a proxy shall, as nearly as circumstances will admit, be
in the form or to the effect following and shall be retained by the Company.

I, …………………………………………of …………………….being a member of


The Holding Company Limited hereby appoint
……………………………..of…………………… or failing him ………….
………………………….of…………………………… or failing him
……………………….of ……………………………………..as my proxy/attorney in
my absence to attend and vote for me, and on my behalf at the (ordinary or extra
ordinary as the case may be) general meeting of the Company to be held on the
…………….day of………. ………….and at any adjournment thereof. As witness my
hand this day of ………..signed by the said ……………… in presence of
……………………………….. [Signature and Date]

MINUTES

71. The Board of Directors shall cause minutes of all proceedings of general meetings and
meetings of the Board to be entered in books kept for that purpose. Any such minutes,
if purporting to be signed by the Chairman of the meeting at which the proceedings
took place, or by the Chairman of the next succeeding meeting, shall be evidence of
the proceedings.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

72. Unless otherwise determined by the Company in general meeting, there shall be a
Board of Directors of the Company consisting of, at any given time, not less than 5
(five) and not more than 9 (nine) Directors, including the Managing Director.

73. Save for the first Directors, no shareholder shall be eligible to become a Director
unless he is selected by the Selection Panel constituted by the Government for this
purpose. The Selection Panel shall be comprised of the following persons, or their
nominees not more than one grade below in rank:

a) a Government representative;

b) President of the Institute of Engineers;

c) Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology


(BUET);

d) President of the Bangladesh Institute of Chartered Accountants; and

e) President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries.

The Selection Panel shall be assisted by an executive search firm as its secretariat.
The Company shall bear all the expenses of the Selection Panel.

74. Once a person is selected by the Selection Panel, he shall not be required to be
selected by the Selection Panel each time he becomes or is elected by the shareholders
to become a Director.

75. After shares are offered to the public for subscription, the Group-B Shareholders shall
elect Directors to the Board representing their shareholding. In such an event, the ratio
of Directors representing Group-A Shareholders and Group-B Shareholders shall
always be 3:2.

76. Subject to Articles 77 and 78, the directors representing the Group-B Shareholders
shall not be required to be selected by the Selection Panel and shall be elected at the
Annual General Meeting of the Company from amongst the Group-B Shareholders.

77. The Directors of the Company must be independent business persons or persons
representing independent consumers or professional interests. and shall not be persons
who are current employees of the Government or members, employees, office-bearers
or officers of any of its instrumentalities or agencies, or of any statutory authority or
who have been employees of the Government or members, employees, office-bearers
or officers of any of its instrumentalities or agencies, or of any statutory authority in
the preceding 2 (two) years. For so long as the Government or its nominees are
majority shareholders of the Company, the requirements of any notification issued by
the Government in respect of the composition of the Board of Directors shall be given
effect to.1

78. The qualification of a Director of the Company shall be the holding of, at least, 1000
(one thousand) shares in the Company in his own name. A shareholder may act as a
Director without obtaining the qualifying shares provided he obtains the required
qualifying shares within 60 (sixty) days after his appointment. A Director nominated
by a shareholder need not hold qualifying shares in his own name provided that the
nominating shareholder holds the qualifying shares.

79. The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall be elected by the members of the Board
from amongst themselves.

80. The Managing Director of the Company shall be appointed by the Board of Directors
either from amongst its members or from outside and in the latter case shall be an ex-
officio member of the Board with voting rights.

81. The remuneration of the Directors shall be set by the Company in the Annual General
Meeting.

82. The Directors shall be reimbursed for expenses reasonably incurred by them in
attending and returning from any meeting of the Directors, any committee of the
Directors or any general meeting of the Company in connection with the business of
the Company, and shall be entitled to a reasonable fee, to be determined by the Board
of Directors, for attending each such meeting.

83. If any Director, being willing, is called upon to perform any extra services for any of
the purposes of the Company, or to give any special attendance to the business of the
Company, he may be paid such remuneration for those services as may be determined
by the Board.

POWERS AND DUTIES OF DIRECTORS

84. The business of the Company shall be managed by the Directors, who may pay all
expenses incurred in forming and registering the Company and may exercise all such
powers of the Company as are not, by the Act or by the Articles, required to be
exercised by the Company in general meeting, subject nevertheless to any of the
Articles or to the provisions of the Act and to such provisions being not inconsistent
with the aforesaid Articles as may be prescribed by the Company in general meeting:
but no provision made by the Company shall invalidate any prior act of the Directors
which would have been valid if that provision had not been made.

85. Without prejudice to the general powers conferred by the last preceding Article and
the other powers conferred by these presents, it is hereby expressly declared that the
Board of Directors shall have the following powers, that is to say:

1
This is with reference to the instructions of the Government issued by memo no, BiJaKhoSho/BiBi/Pro:-2/2Bi-
1/2007/668 dated 15.11.07, which lays down guidelines for the composition of government-owned companies in
the power sector. The existing power companies have been instructed to amend their memoranda and articles of
association accordingly.
a) To pay the cost, charges and expenses preliminary and incidental to the
promotion, formation, establishment and registration of the Company.

b) To manage all concerns and affairs of the Company, to appoint, recruit and
employ officers, organizers, workmen, day labourers for the purpose of the
Company and to remove or dismiss them and appoint others in their place and
to pay such persons as aforesaid such salaries, wages or other remuneration as
may be deemed fit and proper.

c) To provide for the welfare of employees and ex-employees of the Company


and their dependents in such manner as the Board may deem fit.

d) To borrow or raise any sum of money by loan, on hypothecation or mortgage


on such terms and conditions as may be deemed fit and proper.

e) To purchase or otherwise acquire for the Company any property rights or


privileges which the Company is authorized to acquire at such price and
generally on such terms and conditions as they think fit and subject to the
provisions of Section 107 of the Act to sell, let, exchange or otherwise dispose
of absolutely or conditionally any part of the property, privileges and
undertaking of the Company upon such terms and conditions and for such
consideration as they may think fit; save that the Company shall not sell or
otherwise dispose of its undertaking in whole other than with the approval of
the shareholders in general meeting.

f) At their discretion to pay for any property, rights or privileges acquired by or


services rendered to the Company either wholly or partially in cash or in
shares, bonds, debentures or other securities of the Company, and any such
shares may be issued either as fully paid up thereon as may be agreed upon
and any such bonds, debentures, or other securities may either specifically
charged upon all or any part of the property of the Company, including its
uncalled capital not so charged.

g) To secure the fulfilment of any contracts, agreements or engagements entered


into by the Company, mortgage or charges on all or any of the property of the
Company and on its uncalled capital for the time being or in such other
manner as they may think fit.

h) To appoint any person or persons (whether incorporated or not) to accept and


hold in trust for the Company any property belonging to the Company or in
which it is interested or for any other purposes and to execute and do all such
deeds, documents and things as may be requisite in relation to any such trust
and to provide for the remuneration of such trustee or trustees.

i) To institute, conduct, defend, compound or abandon any legal proceedings by


or against the Company or its officers or otherwise concerning the affairs of
the Company and also to compound and allow time for payment or satisfaction
of any claims or demands by or against the Company.
j) To make and give receipts, releases and other discharges for money payable to
the Company and for the claims and demands of the Company.

k) To act on behalf of the Company in all matters relating to bankruptcy and


insolvency.

l) Subject to the provisions of Sections 58, 103, 120(1), 121 and 122 of the Act,
to invest and deal with any of the purposes thereof upon such securities (not
being shares in this Company) and in such manner as they think fit, and from
time to time vary or realise such investment.

m) To give to any person employed by the Company as remuneration for their


services, bonuses and share of profits of the Company and such remuneration
shall be treated as part of the expenses of the Company.

n) From time to time to make, vary and/or repeal all rules and regulations of the
Company, including service rules, organizational structure and codes of
conduct for the business of the Company, its officers and servants as the Board
may deem fit.

o) To create any provident fund in such or any other manner as the Directors may
deem fit.

p) To enter into all such negotiations and contracts and rescind and/or vary all
such contracts and execute and do all such acts, deeds and things in the name
and on behalf of the Company as they may consider expedient for or in
relation to any of the matters aforesaid or otherwise for the purpose of the
Company.

q) To make, draw, endorse, sign, accept, negotiate and give all cheques, bills of
lading, orders, bills of exchange, letters of credit and promissory notes and
other negotiable instruments required in the business of the Company.

r) To insure and keep insured against loss or damage by fire or otherwise in such
manner and for such period and to such extent as they may think proper for all
or any part of the buildings, machinery, goods, stores, produce and other
movable and immovable property of the Company either separately or jointly,
also to insure all or any portion of the goods, produce, machinery and other
articles dealt with by, imported or exported by the Company, and to sell,
assign, surrender or discontinue any policy of insurance effected in pursuance
of this power.

s) To open accounts with any bank(s) or financial institution and to pay money
into or draw money from any such account from time to time as the Directors
may think fit.

t) To attach to any shares to be issued as the consideration for any contract with
or property acquired by the Company, or in payment for services rendered to
the Company, or to the transfer thereof, such conditions as they think fit.
u) To establish branch offices and agencies in any part of Bangladesh or aboard.

v) The Board of Directors may from time to time delegate all or any of their
powers and authorities herein to the Managing Director, Directors, officers of
the Company and or any other person(s) as they may decide.

86. The amount for the time being remaining un-discharged of moneys borrowed or
raised by the Directors for the purposes of the Company, otherwise than by the issue
of share capital, shall not at any time exceed an amount whereby the ratio of long-
term debt to paid-up shareholders’ equity of the Company shall be in excess of 70:30
without the sanction of the Company in general meeting.

87. The Directors shall cause minutes to be made in books provided for the purpose:

(a) of all the appointments of officers made by the Directors;

(b) of the names of the Directors present at each meeting of the Directors and of any
committee of the Directors; and

(c) of all resolutions and proceedings at all meetings of the Company and of the
Directors and of committees of Directors.

Every Director present at any meeting of Directors or committee of Directors shall


sign his name in a book to be kept for that purpose.

88. The office of a Director shall ipso facto be vacated if the Director:

(a) fails to obtain within 60 (sixty) days, or at any time thereafter ceases to hold, or in
the case of a nominated director, the nominator fails to obtain within 60(sixty)
days, or at any time thereafter ceases to hold, the share qualification necessary for
his appointment; or

(b) has his nomination withdrawn by the nominator by notice in writing to the
Company for any reason whatsoever, or being a Director or member of the
company ex officio, immediately upon relinquishment of or removal from the said
office;

(c) fails to perform his duties in accordance with his performance contract; or

(d) is found to be of unsound mind by a Court of competent jurisdiction; or

(e) is adjudged insolvent; or

(f) fails to pay calls made on him in respect of shares held by him within six months
from the date of such calls being made; or

(g) without the sanction of the Company in general meeting accepts or holds any
office of profit under the Company other than that of the managing director or
manager, or legal or technical adviser or banker; or
(h) absents himself from 3 (three) consecutive meetings of the Directors without leave
of absence from the Board of Directors; or

(i) accepts a loan from the Company; or

(j) is concerned or participates in the profits of any contract with the Company; or

(k) is convicted of a criminal offence; or

(l) is punished with imprisonment for a term exceeding six months.

Provided, however, that no Director shall vacate his office only by reason of his being
a member of any other company which has entered into contracts with or done work
for the Company, but a Director shall not vote in any meeting of the Company or the
Board of Directors in respect of any such contract or work and if he does so vote, his
vote shall not be counted.

ROTATION OF DIRECTORS

89. At the first annual general meeting of the Company, all the Directors of the Company
shall retire from office. At the annual general meeting in every year after the first
annual general meeting of the Company, one-third of the Directors for the time being,
or if their number is not three or a multiple of three, then the number nearest to one-
third shall retire from office.

90. The Directors to retire each year shall be those who have been longest in office since
their last election, but as between persons who became Directors on the same day
those to retire shall, unless they otherwise agreed among themselves, be determined
by lottery.

91. A retiring Director shall be eligible for re-election for multiple terms with a maximum
of three consecutive terms. Each term shall not be more than 3 years.

92. The Company at the general meeting at which a Director retires may fill in the
vacated office by electing a person thereto.

93. If at any meeting at which an election of Directors ought to take place, the offices of
the vacating Directors are not filled in, the meeting shall stand adjourned till the same
day in the next week and shall be held at the same time and place, and if at the
adjourned meeting the offices of the vacating Directors are not filled in, the vacating
Directors or such of them as have not had their office filled in shall be deemed to be
have been re-elected at the adjourned meeting, subject to their consent to continue to
act as Directors of the Company.

94. Any casual vacancy occurring in the Board of Directors may be filled in by the
Directors but the person so chosen shall be subject to retirement at the same time as if
he had become a Director on the day on which the Director in whose place he is
appointed was last elected a Director. A Director so chosen shall be known as an
Alternative Director.
95. The Directors shall have power at any time to appoint a person, subject to
confirmation of the Selection Panel, as an additional Director who shall retire from
office at the next following ordinary general meeting but shall be eligible for election
by the Members at that meeting, as a Director.

96. The Company may, by extraordinary resolution, remove any Director before the
expiration of his period of office, and may by, an ordinary resolution appoint another
person in his stead; the person so appointed shall be subject to retirement at the same
time as if he had become a director on the day on which the director in whose place he
is appointed was last elected a Director.

97. The Directors may at the request of a Director appoint any person approved by such
Director to be an alternate Director to represent such Director during the absence of the
Director from Bangladesh for a continuous period of not less than three months and such
appointment shall have effect and such appointee while he holds office as an alternate
director shall be entitled to notice of Meetings of Directors, and in the absence of the
Director from Bangladesh whom he represents to attend and vote thereat accordingly,
and he shall ipso facto vacate office immediately after he receives information that the
original director has returned to Bangladesh, and also if and when the Director whom he
represents vacates office or the alternate Director is removed from office at the request of
the Director whom he represents. Any appointment or removal under this article shall be
effected by the Directors upon the request in writing to the Company under the hand of
the Director whom the alternate Director is to represents. Every person acting as an
alternate Director shall be an officer of the Company and he shall not be deemed to be
the agent of the Director whom he represents. A person shall not act as alternate for
more than one Director. Such appointee shall not be required to hold qualifying shares
in accordance with Article 76.

PROCEEDINGS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

98. The Board of Directors may meet together for the disposal of business and adjourn
and otherwise regulate their meetings, as they think fit. Questions arising at any
meeting shall be decided by a majority of votes. In case of an equality of votes, the
Chairman of the meeting shall have a second or casting vote. A resolution or circular
in writing signed by all the Directors shall be as valid and effectual as if it had been
passed at the meeting of the Directors duly called and constituted. A meeting of the
Board of Directors may be held through audio or audio visual or other electronic
media, provided the identity of the participants can be satisfactorily ascertained.

99. The Managing Director or a Director may, and the Secretary on the requisition of a
Director shall, at any time, summon a meeting of the Board of Directors.

100. The quorum necessary for the transaction of the business of the Board of Directors
may be fixed by the Directors and unless so fixed shall be three.

101. The continuing Directors may act notwithstanding any vacancy in their body but, if
and so long as their number is reduced below 5 (five), the continuing Directors may
only act for the purpose of increasing the number of Directors to 5 (five) or of
summoning a general meeting of the Company, but for no other purpose.
102. The Board of Directors may delegate any of their powers to committees consisting of
such Member(s) of their body, as they think fit. Any committee so formed shall, in the
exercise of the powers so delegated, conform to any restrictions and regulations that
may be imposed on them by the Directors.

103. A committee may meet and adjourn, as they think proper. Questions arising at any
meeting of any committee shall be determined by a majority of votes of the Members
present and, in case of an equality of votes, the Chairman shall have a second or
casting vote.

104. All acts done by any meeting of the Board of Directors, or of a committee of the
Directors, or by any person acting as a Director shall, notwithstanding that it be
afterwards discovered that there was some defect in the appointment of any such
Directors, or persons acting as aforesaid, or that they or any or them were
disqualified, be as valid as if every such persons had been duty appointed and was
qualified to be a Director.

MANAGING DIRECTOR

105. The Board of Directors shall appoint a Managing Director for a period of 5 (five)
years at a time and upon such terms and conditions as they think fit and may vest in
the Managing Director such of the powers of the Directors as they think fit and such
powers may be made exercisable for such period, subject to such restrictions, and
upon such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Board.

106. The remuneration of the Managing Director shall be fixed by the Board and may be
made payable by way of salary, stock options, commission, participation in profits or
partly in one mode and partly in another, as may be determined by the Board or
Directors.

107. The Managing Director shall be an ex-officio member of the Board and shall have
voting power in the Board or in any general meeting of the Company and shall enjoy
all the privileges and advantages enjoyed by a Director.

POWERS OF THE MANAGING DIRECTOR

108. Without prejudice to the general powers conferred by these Articles and to any other
powers or authorities conferred on the Directors, the Managing Director shall have the
following powers subject to the superintendence, control and direction of the Board:

a) to hire or terminate staff and officers in accordance with any association or union
agreements and to appoint, and at his discretion, remove or suspend such
manager, secretary, officer, clerk, employee, agent, adviser and consultant for
permanent, temporary or special services as he may, from time to time, think fit,
and to determine their powers and duties and fix their salaries, emoluments and
remuneration, and require security of such instances and to such amount as he
may think fit: provided, however, that the appointment, removal, discharge or
termination of immediate sub-ordinate officers of the Managing Director, in
whatever name called, including vice-presidents and head of legal, shall be made
by the Managing Director with the concurrence of the Board;

b) to call a meeting of Board or general meeting as may be required;


c) to open branches or offices of the company at any other place in Bangladesh or in
any other country as and when necessary;

d) to manage, look after and supervise the business and all other affairs of the
company;

e) to admit execution of documents before the Registrar or any other registering


authority and to conduct or defend any case before the authority;

f) generally to do all acts and things as may be necessary from time to time in
connection with the business of the Company in different departments under the
Government of Bangladesh, all commercial bank's import and export offices,
custom office, shipping office, railway office, post office and other public or
private offices;

g) to pay for rent of the hires in the name of Company;

h) to purchase or otherwise acquire for the Company rights or privileges which the
Company is authorized to acquire up to the price considered to be fair market
value and generally on such terms and conditions as he thinks fit and to sell, let,
exchange or otherwise dispose of all or any part of the properties, privileges and
undertakings of the Company at a price not less than fair market value and upon
such terms and conditions and at such considerations as he may think fit;

i) to sign, seal and execute bills, notes, receipts, acceptances, endorsements,


cheques, dividend warrants, releases, contracts and all such documents, acts,
deeds and things in the name of the Company as he deems fit so long as doing so
does not result in a cost to the Company or future obligation for payment
exceeding Tk.5,00,00,000/- (Taka Five Crore only) and/or a variation, alteration,
execution or rescission of obligations and contracts of the Company for an amount
exceeding Tk.5,00,00,000/- (Taka Five Crore only);

j) to pay for any property, rights, privileges acquired by, or services rendered to, the
Company, whether wholly or partly in cash or in shares, debentures or other
securities, either specially charged upon all or any part of the property of the
Company and its uncalled capital for the time being, or in such other manner as he
thinks fit;

k) to insure all such property and immovable effects, goods or belongings of the
Company which may be of an insurable nature against such risks and
contingencies as he may deem fit;

l) to appoint, employ and instruct counsel, legal adviser, advocates and any other
legal practitioner in the interest and for the purpose of the Company, to act for and
on behalf of the Company before all Courts (civil, criminal, revenue or otherwise),
whether original or appellate, to sign petitions, applications, affidavits, pleadings
and vokalatnama authorising legal practitioners to act for and on behalf of the
Company and to conduct and institute or defend any suit or case instituted by or
against the Company;
m) to open bank accounts, make, draw, endorse, sign, negotiate and give cheques,
bills of lading, drafts, orders and promissory notes, securities and negotiable
instruments required in the business of the Company, and may also sign and give
effectual receipt and other discharges of money payable to the Company and for
the claims and demands of the Company, and pay money into and draw money
from any such account, from time to time, as he may think fit;

n) to comply with the requirement of any local law which, in his opinion, is
necessary and expedient to comply with in the interest of the Company; and

o) to enter into all such negotiations for the purposes of the Company.

109. The Board may specifically grant the following powers to the Managing Director by
resolution:
a. to borrow or raise any sum of money by loan or on mortgage or by
hypothecation or otherwise on such securities and terms as may deem fit and
execute, sign, seal or deliver all necessary documents or do any other act or
acts on their behalf;
b. to settle, compound, submit for arbitration and compromise and withdraw all
actions, demand, whatsoever arising in any legal proceeding or otherwise;
c. to pay the costs, charges and expenses, preliminary and incidental to the
promotion, establishment and registration of the Company;
d. to pay monthly salary, remuneration and other allowances as may be
determined from time to time by the Board for the employees of the company
as well as for the Directors;
e. to purchase or otherwise acquire for the Company immovable property which
the Company is authorized to acquire up to the price considered to be fair
market value and generally on such terms and conditions as he thinks fit and to
sell, let, exchange or otherwise dispose of all or any part of the properties,
privileges and undertakings of the Company at a price not less than fair market
value and upon such terms and conditions and at such considerations as he
may think fit;
f. to secure the fulfillment of any contracts or engagement entered into by the
Company by mortgage or charge of any of the property of the Company and
its uncalled capital for the time being or in such other manner as he thinks fit;
g. to institute, conduct, defend, compound or abandon any legal proceedings
by, or against the Company, or its officers, or otherwise concerning the affairs
of the Company, and also to compound and allow time for payment or
satisfaction of any debt due, or of any claims or demands by, or against, the
Company;
h. to refer any claim or demand by, or against, the Company to arbitration and
observe and perform the awards;
i. to act on behalf of the Company on all matters relating to bankruptcy and
insolvency;
j. to invest and deal with any of the money of the Company, not immediately
required for the purpose thereof upon such securities and in such manner as he
may think fit and, from time to time, vary or realize such investments;
k. to provide for the welfare of employees and ex-employees of the Company
and their dependents in such manner as the Board may deem fit;

OPERATION OF BANK ACCOUNT

110. The Board may open a bank account or accounts with any scheduled bank or banks,
or financial institutions, or with any foreign bank in or outside Bangladesh subject
where necessary to the grant of authorisation from Bangladesh Bank, and borrow
money from such banks or any other financial institutions for the purposes of the
Company. The Board of Directors may authorise any person or persons, including the
Managing Director, to operate such bank accounts either solely or jointly with any
other Director of the Company, or any other person so designated by the Board of
Directors.

THE SEAL

111. The common seal of the Company shall not be affixed to any instrument except by the
authority of a resolution of the Board of Directors and in the presence of the
Managing Director and the Managing Director shall sign every instrument to which
the seal of the Company is so affixed in his presence.

112. The Company may, for its use outside Bangladesh, have an official seal which shall
be a facsimile of the common seal of the Company with the addition on its face of the
name of the territory, or place where it is to be used.

DIVIDEND AND RESERVE

113. The Company in general meeting may declare dividends, but no dividend shall exceed
the amount recommended by the Directors. No dividend shall bear interest against the
Company. Dividends may be paid in cash or in kind.

114. When a dividend is declared, it shall be paid within 60 (sixty) days from the date of its
declaration, provided that the period of 60 (sixty) days shall not apply, in case, where:

a) there is a dispute regarding the right to receive the payment; or

b) the dividend has been lawfully adjusted by the Company against any sum due to it
from the shareholder.

115. The Directors may, from time to time, pay to the Members such interim dividend as
appear to the Directors to be justified by the profits of the Company.

116. No dividend shall be paid otherwise than out of the profits of the year or any other
undistributed profits of the Company, nor shall be paid if the Company is insolvent or
if doing so would result in the insolvency of the Company.

117. The Company shall not pay any dividend on its shares until all its capitalised
expenditure, including preliminary expenses, organisation expenses, share selling
commission, brokerage and loss incurred and any item of expenditure not represented
by tangible assets, has been completely written off, and that current liabilities for staff
retirement benefits have been fully funded or otherwise satisfied.

118. Subject to the rights of persons, if any, entitled to shares with special rights as to
dividends, all dividends shall be declared and paid according to the amounts paid on
the shares; but, if, and so long as nothing is paid upon any of the shares in the
Company, dividends may be declared and paid according to the nominal value of the
shares. No amount paid on a share in advance of calls shall, while carrying interest, be
treated for the purpose of this Article as paid on the share.

119. The Board of Directors may before recommending any dividend, set aside out of the
profits of the Company such, sums as they think proper as reserve or reserves which
shall at the discretion of the Board be applicable for meeting contingencies, or for
equalizing dividends or for any other purpose to which the profits of the Company
may be properly applied and pending such application may, at the like discretion,
either be employed in the business of the Company or be invested in such investments
as the Directors may from time to time think fit.

120. If several persons are registered as joint-holders of any share, any one of them may
give effectual receipts for any dividend payable on the share.

ACCOUNTS

121. The Board of Directors shall cause to be kept proper books of account with respect to:

a) all sums of money received and expended by the Company and the matters in
respect of which the receipts and expenditure take place;

b) all sales and purchases of goods by the Company;

c) the assets and liabilities of the Company; and

d) cost accounts, as may be applicable.

122. The books of account shall be kept at the registered office of the Company or at such
other place as the Directors shall think fit and shall be open to inspection by the
Directors during business hours.

123. Within three (3) months after the end of each financial year, the Board shall deliver to
the Members:

a) a report of the operations of the Company including its subsidiaries for that
financial year;

b) audited consolidated financial statements for that financial year consisting of the
statement of financial position (balance sheet), profit and loss, changes in
financial position, and such other statements as may be necessary to show the
financial position of the Company and its subsidiaries and the financial results of
their operations during that financial year prepared in accordance with Bangladesh
Accounting Standards and/or International Accounting Standards; and
c) the Auditor’s report on those financial statements.

124. Within two (2) months after the end of the first half of each financial year, the Board
shall deliver to the Members a report of its operations during that half-year.

125. The Board may decide to form or maintain a reserve fund out of the initial investment
or from profits. This fund may be utilized for the expansion of investment in a new
venture or for paying up company's liabilities as decided by the Board.

126. The Directors shall cause to be prepared and to be laid before the Company in general
meeting such profit and loss accounts or income and expenditure accounts, balance-
sheet and reports as are, referred to, and, required by Sections 183 and 184 of the Act.

127. The profit and loss account shall, in addition to the matters referred to in Section
185(2) of the Act, show, arranged under the most convenient heads, the amount of
any provision made to the satisfaction of the auditors for bad and doubtful debts
distinguishing the several sources from which it has been derived, and the amount of
gross expenditure distinguishing the expenses of the establishment, salaries and other
like matters. Every item of expenditure, fairly chargeable against the year's income,
shall be brought into account so that a just balance of profit and loss may be laid
before the meeting, and, in cases where any item of expenditure which may in fairness
be distributed over several years has been incurred in any one year, the whole amount
of such item shall be stated, with the addition of the reasons why only a portion of
such expenditure is charged against the income of the year.

128. A balance sheet shall be made out in every year and laid before the Company in
general meeting. The balance sheet shall be made up to a date not more than 6 (six)
months before such meeting. The balance sheet shall be accompanied by a report of
the Directors as to the state of the Company's affairs and the amount, if any, which
they propose to carry to a reserve fund.

129. A copy of the balance sheet and report shall, 14 (fourteen) days prior to the meeting,
be sent to the persons entitled to receive notice of general meetings.

AUDIT

130. Once, at least, in every year the accounts of the Company shall be audited in
accordance with Bangladesh Standards on Auditing and/or International Standards on
Auditing and the correctness of the profit and loss account and balance sheet
ascertained by Auditors appointed in accordance with the provisions of Sections 210
to 213 of the Act.

131. Auditors and their remuneration shall be proposed to the shareholders by the Board at
the annual general meeting for the ensuing year, except that the remuneration of the
first Auditors appointed by the Board may be fixed by the Board. The auditors so
nominated must be qualified chartered accountants and the firms must have adequate
resources to undertake the audit. The Company shall require the Auditors to provide a
management letter in respect of each year of accounts audited by them, which sets out
the results of the systems review and recommendations for improvement the Auditors
shall be required by the Company to perform as a part of their engagement.
132. A retiring Auditor shall be eligible for re-appointment.

NOTICE

133. A notice may be given by the Company to any Member either personally or by
sending it by registered post to him to his registered address, or if he has no registered
address in Bangladesh to the address, if any, within Bangladesh supplied by him to
the Company for the giving of notice to him.

134. Where a notice is sent by post, the service of such notice shall be deemed, to be
effected by properly addressing, prepaying and posting a letter containing the notice
and, unless the contrary is proved, to have been effected at the time at which a letter
would have been delivered in the ordinary course of post.

135. If a Member has no registered address in Bangladesh, and has not supplied to the
Company an address within Bangladesh for the giving of notice to him, a notice
addressed to him and advertised in a newspaper circulating in the neighbourhood of
the Registered Office of the Company shall be deemed to be duly given to him on the
day on which the advertisement appears.

136. A notice may be given by the Company to the persons entitled to a share in
consequence of the death or insolvency of a Member by sending it through the post by
a prepaid letter addressed to them by name, or by the title of representatives of the
deceased or assignee of the insolvent, or by any like description, at the address, if any,
in Bangladesh supplied for the purpose by giving the notice in any manner in which
the same might have been given if the death or insolvency had not occurred.

137. A notice may be given by the Company to the joint-holders of a share by giving the
notice to the joint-holder named first in the Register in respect of the share.

138. Notice of every general meeting shall be given, in such manner as has been mentioned
above, to:

a) every Member of the Company, including bearers of share-warrants, except those


Members who have no registered address within Bangladesh and have not
supplied to the Company an address within Bangladesh for the giving of notice to
them; and

b) every person entitled to a share in consequence of the death or insolvency of a


Member, who but for his death or insolvency, would be entitled to receive notice
of the meeting.

139. Any notice to be given by the Company shall be signed by the Secretary or by such
officer as the Director may appoint. Such signature may be written, printed or
lithographed.

WINDING UP

140. Subject to the provisions of these Articles, if the Company shall be wound up and the
assets available for distribution among the Members as such shall be insufficient to
repay the whole of the paid-up capital, such assets shall be distributed so that, as
nearly as may be, the losses shall be borne by the Members in proportion to the shares
held by them respectively. And, if in a winding up, the assets available for distribution
among the Members shall be more than sufficient to repay the whole of the capital
paid up at the commencement of the winding up, the excess shall be distributed
amongst the Members in proportion to the shares held by them respectively. But this
Article shall be without prejudice to the rights of the holders of shares issued upon
special terms and conditions.

141. If the Company shall be wound up, whether voluntarily or otherwise, the liquidators
may, with the sanction of an Extraordinary Resolution, divide amongst the
contributors in specie kind, any part of the assets of the Company and may, with the
like sanction, vest any part of the assets of the Company in trustees upon such trusts
for the benefit of the contributors or any of them as the liquidators with the like
sanction shall think fit.

SECRECY

142. No Member shall be entitled to require discovery of any information respecting any
detail of the Company's trading or any matter, which may be in the nature of a trade
secret, mystery of trade or secret process which may relate to the conduct of the
business of the Company and which in the opinion of the Directors will not be
inexpedient in the interest of the Company to communicate to the public.

143. Every Director, Managing Director, secretary, Auditor, accountant or any other
persons employed in the business of the Company shall have to observe strict secrecy
respecting all matters which may come to his knowledge in the discharge of his duties
except when required as to do so by resolution of the Company or by a court of law or
where the person connected is required to do so in order to run the Company with
provision(s) of the law or in these Articles.

144. The Company shall keep secret and confidential all transactions with its clients.

145. Every Director, manager, Auditor, trustee, member of a committee, officer, servant,
agent or other persons employed in the business of the Company shall, if so required
by the Directors, before entering upon his duties, sign a declaration pledging himself
to observe strict secrecy respecting all transactions of the Company with its customers
and in the matter relating thereto and shall by such declaration pledge himself not to
reveal any of the matters which may come to his knowledge in the discharge of his
duties except when required so to do by the Directors or by a court of law and except
so far as may be necessary in order to comply with any of the provisions of these
Articles.

INDEMNITY AND RESPONSIBILITY

146. Subject to the provisions of Section 102 of the Act, every Director of the Company
including its Chairman, Managing Director or officer or employee of the Company
shall be indemnified by the Company against, and it shall be the duty of the Directors,
out of the funds of the Company to pay, all costs, losses and expenses, including
travelling and living expenses, which the Chairman, Managing Director, Director,
officer or employee aforesaid may incur or become liable for by reason of any
contract entered into or act or deed done by him in such capacity or in any way in the
proper discharge of his duties.

147. Subject as aforesaid, every Director, including the Chairman, Managing Director or
officer of the Company, shall be indemnified against any liability incurred by him in
defending any proceeding, whether civil or criminal, in which judgement is given in
his favour or in which he is acquitted or in connection with any application under
Section 396 of the Act in which relief is given to him by the Court.
We, the several persons whose names, addresses and descriptions are subscribed below, are
desirous of being formed into a company in pursuance of this Articles of Association and we
respectively agree to take the number of shares in the capital of the Company set opposite our
respective names and hereunder subscribe to these Articles:

Serial Names, Addresses, Nationality, Number of Shares taken by Signature


No. Description of Subscribers. each Subscriber
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Total shares taken: _____ (______)

Names, Addresses and Signature of Witnesses:

1)

2)

Dated this the _____ day of __________, 200_.


APPENDIX D: OTHER DOCUMENTS FOR HOLDCO OPERATIONS

D.1 REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Listed below are the documents, certificates and licenses required for the formation and
basic operations of HoldCo. The specific requirements for obtaining that particular
document are noted beneath each.

1. Certificate of Incorporation from the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms
(RJSC)
• Forwarding Letter
• Name Clearance Certificate
• Resolution of Promoters’ Meeting
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (3 Copies)
• Forms:
o Form I: Declaration on Registration
o Form VI: Registered Office
o Form IX: Consent of Director to Act
o Form X: List of Persons Consenting to Act as Directors
o Form XII: Particulars of Directors
• Directors’ TIN Certificates
• Challan (5,000/- TK), original and photocopy
• Fees (Calculated on the authorized capital)
• Consent of Securities and Exchange Commission for issuing capital

2. Certificate of Commencement of Business from RJSC


• Declaration of payment of minimum subscription
• Declaration of payment of subscription by directors
• Duly verified declaration by the company secretary or a director in the
prescribed form that the above conditions have been complied with
• A statement in lieu of prospectus

3. Taxpayer Identification Number from the National Board of Revenue


• Two sets of application forms for a TIN
• A forwarding letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner of taxes of
Income Tax Circle concerned.
• Copy of the Trade License
• Copy of the land title deed/lease agreement for the office premises
• Copy of the Certificate of Incorporation of the company
• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Two photographs of the person signing the application forms (usually the
Managing Director of the company)
• Bank solvency certificate
• Letter of authorization to the person who will submit the paperwork and
collect the TIN

4. Value Added Tax (VAT) Registration Certificate from the National Board of
Revenue
• Application Form (Mushak-6)Copy of TIN certificate
• Copy of Trade License

D-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
D: Other Documents for HoldCo Operations. . .

• Import/Export Registration Certificate if applicable


• Copy of the land title deed/lease agreement for the office premises
• Copy of the Certificate of Incorporation of the company
• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Two photographs of the person signing the application forms (usually the
Managing Director of the company)
• Bank solvency certificate
• Nationality certificate of the Managing Director of the company from the
local Ward Commissioner, if he is a Bangladeshi national.
• Work Permit from BOI, if the country chief of the company is a foreign
national
• Board resolution authorizing the Managing Director to will sign and execute
all the paperwork

5. Trade License from the City Corporation/Municipal Corporation where the office
premises are situated
• Copy of the land title deed/lease agreement for the office premises
• Copy of the Certificate of Incorporation of the company
• Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company
• Two photographs of the person signing the application forms (usually the
Managing Director of the company)
• Bank solvency certificate
• Nationality certificate of the Managing Director of the company from the
local Ward Commissioner, if he is a Bangladeshi national.
• Work Permit from BOI, if the country chief of the company is a foreign
national
• Photocopy of passport with foreign address including father’s and mother’s
names, if the country chief of the company is a foreign national.
• Bank solvency certificate
• Commercial permission for the office premises and photocopy of the
Commercial Plan attested by RAJUK

6. Utility supplier registration documents for electricity, gas, water,


telecommunications etc. The documents required to obtain these vary from
provider to provider

In addition to the above, in varying circumstances HoldCo may require one or more of the
permits/licenses/authorization or other documents listed in Appendix D.

D.2 OTHER DOCUMENTS THAT MAY BE REQUIRED

OTHER REGISTRATIONS, LICENSES, CONSENTS AND PERMITS WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED FOR
OPERATIONALIZING HOLDCO AND THE RELEVANT AUTHORITY

Land Purchase and Development RAJUK or other local authority

Environmental Clearance Certificate DOE

Export/Import License, bonded warehouse facilities CCIE

Product standards mark BSTI

Patents and trade marks, design registration RTM

D-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
D: Other Documents for HoldCo Operations. . .

“Certificate of Registration” of Plant (if any) under the Factories Act, 1965 (Act IV of 1965) CIFE

Consent for opening and operating on-shore foreign exchange (FX) or offshore Foreign Currency bank accounts BB

Consent for the purchase of FX for Taka through normal commercial banking channels in Bangladesh and for the transfer of
such FX from bank accounts inside Bangladesh into bank accounts outside Bangladesh BB

Consent to make or remit payments in FX from bank accounts in Bangladesh or outside Bangladesh BB

All import permits, certificates, licenses and other consents allowing the Company to import into Bangladesh all plant,
machinery, equipment, spare parts, materials and supplies required for the plant CCIE

Statutory notifications granting exemption from Customs Duties and VAT on the importation of plant and equipment
(including spare parts) for incorporation into the Company’s plant and the temporary importation of erection materials,
machinery and equipment (subject to re-export) NBR

Statutory notification granting the Company exemption from taxation on its income related directly to the plant/tax holidays
NBR

No objection certificate to obtain export permit to export any imported equipment not forming a permanent part of the plant
BB

Permission for transporting chemicals, toxic wastes and hazardous materials on land and water routes DOE/DOEXP

Approval of installations for boilers at the Plant under Sections 6 and 7 of the Boilers Act, 1923 (Act V of 1923)
Department of Explosives/CIFE

License for the Company to obtain and have arms for the purposes of the security of the Plant MOHA

License under the Petroleum Act, 1934 (Act LXIX of 1934) for storage of petroleum products at or proximately to the Plant
Department of Explosives

Approval of the Plant as satisfying the fire safety and protection standards under the Fire Service Ordinance, 1959 (Ord. No.
XVII of 1959) and Civil Defence Act 1952 (Act. XXXI of 1952) DFSCD

Consent to operate the Plant based on the implementation of measures identified in the EIA (“Environmental Clearance
Certificate”) DOE

Consent for the execution of any financing documents, including approval of the term sheets for the Company’s foreign
currency loans MOF (ERD)/BOI

Registration of the executed financing documents BOI

Registration for availing infra-structural facilities and institutional support including TIN Certificate, Trade License,
Incorporation Certificate etc BOI

Work permits for foreign personnel including the Company’s employees and residence visas BOI

National security clearance for expatriate employees of the CompanyMOHA

Consent for remittance of up to fifty percent (50%) of salaries and savings by expatriate employees of the Company without
restriction BB

Registration of agreements under which royalties, technical know-how fees and technical assistance fees are payable by the
Company BOI

Statutory notification granting foreign collaborators, companies and experts exemption from tax or withholding tax on such
of their income as is paid as “royalties”, “technical assistance fees” and “technical know-how fees” by the Company in
connection with the Plant NBR

Exemption from Section 3D(2) of the Insurance Act 1938 (Act IV of 1938) to permit the Company to obtain insurance for
the Plant from companies outside Bangladesh MOC/CI

Certificate under Section 3D(1) of the Insurance Act 1938 (Act IV of 1938) to enable the Company to obtain reinsurance for
the Plant from companies outside Bangladesh CI

D-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
D: Other Documents for HoldCo Operations. . .

Exemption for insurers (other than the SBC) from the obligation to reinsure all or any part of insurance cover relating to the
Plant with the SBC and permissions allowing the Company to effect such reinsurance with reinsurers outside Bangladesh on
terms whereby:

- remittance/deposit of premia in Foreign Currencies to such reinsurers by the


Company is permitted;
- the proceeds of any claims under such reinsurances may be paid directly by the
reinsurers pursuant to the loss(es) payable endorsed upon any such reinsurances
and such proceeds may be deposited/retained in Foreign Currencies outside
Bangladesh;
- the conduct and settlement of claims shall be undertaken by and at the sole
discretion of the reinsurers; and disputes between the insured and the insurers will
be resolved by the reinsurers according to such law as the relevant insurers and
reinsurers may agree CI

Statutory notification granting the Foreign Investors of the Company (if a public limited company) exemption from capital
gain tax in respect of any transfer or disposal of shares in the Company NBR

Statutory notification granting foreign employees of the Company exemptions from taxation on their personal income in
Bangladesh NBR

Statutory notification granting the Company an exemption from any tax on the sale of electricity to BPDB NBR

Statutory notification that any foreign lenders will be exempted from taxation on their income in Bangladesh NBR

Statutory notification granting exemption from stamp duties in respect of the registration of all deeds, documents and
instruments contained in any financing documents and conveyances of land NBR

Consent for payment by the Company to persons outside Bangladesh under Section 6 of the Foreign Exchange Regulations
Act, 1947 (Act VII of 1947) (“FERA”) in respect of all transactions of the Company as may be necessary BB

Consent for the issuance, export and transfer of securities in Bangladesh or outside Bangladesh under Section 13 of FERA,
purchased in Taka or in Foreign Currency. BB

Consent to lend money to the Company or purchase the Company’s securities under Section 16 of FERA (transactions
involving foreigners) BB

Easement or lease agreement and approval for construction of shoreline work, jetty, intake and outfall structures of once
through cooling system and dredging of river IWTA

Approval for construction of shoreline work, jetty, intake and outfall structures including sheet piling and dredging or rivers
BWDB/Local authority

Abbreviations:

BB - Bangladesh Bank
BOI - Board of Investment
BPDB - Bangladesh Power Development Board
BSTI - Bangladesh Standards Testing Institute
BTTB - Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board
BWDB - Bangladesh Water Development Board
CCIE - Chief Controller of Import and Export
CI - Controller of Insurance
CIFE - Chief Inspector of Factories and Establishment
DFSCD - Department of Fire Service & Civil Defence
WASA - Water and Sewerage Supply Authority
DOE - Department of Environment
DOEXP - Department of Explosives
FERA - Foreign Exchange Regulation Act 1947
GOB - Government of Bangladesh
IWTA - Inland Water Transport Authority
MOC - Ministry of Commerce
MOF - Ministry of Finance (Economic Relations Division)

D-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
D: Other Documents for HoldCo Operations. . .

MOHA - Ministry of Home Affairs


NBR - National Board of Revenue
RAJUK - Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha
RJSC - Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms
RTM - Registrar of Trade Marks
SEC - Securities and Exchange Commission
SBC - Sadharan Bima Corporation

Using land as collateral for borrowings raises a set of registration-related issues which may
be addressed separately.

D-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX E: RESPONSES TO BPDB QUERIES ON CORPORATE ESTABLISHMENT

The following are responses to the queries and observations of BPDB forwarded to the
Country Director, ADB BRM, by letter dated 06.01.08. The queries/observations are in
italics.

a) It is known to all that BPDB has undertaken all undertakings and properties of the
then East Pakistan Power Development Authority by the President’s Order 59 of 1972.
Therefore, before finalization of this ‘Draft Final Report’ we should examine the
establishment process of different subsidiaries (Subsidiary companies) of BPDB. In other
words we should examine whether the subsidiaries have been established or are going to
be established lawfully. We also need to scrutinize the process or system we have
followed in transfer of properties and undertakings of BPDB to subsidiary companies.

P.O.59 provides that BPDB shall be a body corporate, having perpetual succession and a
common seal with power, subject to the provisions of the Order, to acquire, hold and
dispose of property, both movable and immovable, and shall by its name sue and be
sued. This provides the legal basis for BPDB to set up and hold shares in subsidiary
companies.

The five existing subsidiary companies the ownership of which is proposed to be


transferred to HoldCo are the West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited (WZPDCL),
Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Limited (EGCB), Ashuganj Power Station
Company Limited (APSCL), Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Limited (PGCB) and
North West Zone Power Distribution Company Limited (NWZPDCL). These were all
formed as companies under and in compliance with the requirements of the Companies
Act, 1994. The companies are duly and properly formed under the laws of Bangladesh.

HoldCo will be incorporated in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1994
as well, and will be authorized by its memorandum of association to “own, establish, set
up, found, form, incorporate and promote subsidiary companies”. Any subsidiary of
HoldCo to be formed in the future would also be formed in compliance with the provisions
of the Companies Act, 1994. Therefore, it may be clearly stated that the existing
subsidiaries of BPDB have been established lawfully, and the future subsidiaries, it must
be presumed, will also be set up lawfully.

In transferring properties and undertakings of BPDB to subsidiary companies, the


approach has been for BPDB to enter into a vendor’s agreement (also referred to as an
asset transfer agreement) with the subsidiary company concerned in respect of all the
movable and immovable property to be transferred by BPDB to the subsidiary. Such
vendor’s agreements have been entered into with APSCL, PGCB and WZPDCL. The
vendor’s agreement with EGCB is near finalization, although some assets, such as
Siddhirganj power plant has been physically handed over to EGCB. NWZPDCL is not yet
fully operational and no assets have been transferred to it till now.

E-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
E: Responses to BPDB Queries on Corporate Establishment. . .

Internally, the Rules of Business, 199628, in Chapter IV, Para 16 provides the following
matters, among others, to be brought before the Cabinet: proposals relating to the
creation of new corporations or companies wholly owned by the government or by a public
sector undertaking, and participation by the government or a public sector undertaking in
providing share capital to a new corporation/company or any existing corporation or
companies. While “public sector undertaking” is not defined in the Rules of Business, it
would appear that BPDB is treated as a public sector undertaking, as the Ministry of
Energy and Mineral Resources is given the task of “[A]dministration and control of
Bangladesh Power Development Board...”.

The valuation of the property to be transferred is as yet provisional in all cases. A value is
computed on the basis of BPDB’s books of accounts. In some cases, such as APSCL, a
committee has been formed by BPDB to finalize the valuation of the assets.

b) We need to review further whether the acquisitioned land has been transferred to
subsidiary companies or the value of the transferred land has been determined as per the
government Rules and Procedures. Whether the vetting/Agreement of the land Ministry
was needed for that. It should be looked into.

Once the valuation of the assets to be transferred, including immovable property, i.e. land,
has been determined, the land will be transferred to the subsidiary company as agreed in
the vendor’s agreement, upon compliance with the necessary requirements for registration
of the deed of transfer. The vendor’s agreements have been vetted by the Ministry of Law.
This presumes that the land to be transferred now belongs to BPDB, in which case the
vetting of the Ministry of Land is not required for the land transfer. If the land is owned by
the Government, then questions of lease may become relevant, in which case the
Government’s internal policies for vetting of such lease agreements, which may involve
the Ministries of Land and Law, would be followed by the Government.

c) We need to ascertain that in the way of establishing BPDB as a holding company


and in establishing its subsidiary companies, which Ministries are to be consulted and
agreement or vetting of which Ministries are to be required. For example, for VAT and Tax
we need vetting of NBR. Similarly, for transfer or lease of acquisitioned land
vetting/agreement of Land Ministry is needful.

Under the Rules of Business, Cabinet approval would be required for establishment of
HoldCo as a company wholly owned by the Government. Particular matters would need t
be reviewed in light of the Rules of Business to ascertain whether any Ministry would be
required to approve of the matter.

d) How the following matters are to be accommodated or which Authority will take the
responsibility of the following:

28
Issued by the President in exercise of powers conferred by Article 55(6) of the Constitution for
allocation and transaction of business of the Government.

E-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
E: Responses to BPDB Queries on Corporate Establishment. . .

“All debts, liabilities and obligations incurred, all contracts entered into, all matters
and things engaged to be done by, with or for the BPDB and all suits and other
legal proceedings instituted by or against the BPDB after the commencement of
P.O. 59 of 1972”.

P.O. 59 provided that on the commencement of the Order, all debts, liabilities and
obligations incurred, all contracts entered into and all matters and things engaged to be
done by, with or for, the said Authority before the commencement of this Order shall be
deemed to have been incurred, entered into, acquired or engaged to be done by, with or
for BPDB, so far as they relate to the undertakings transferred to BPDB. Since BPDB will
continue to exist, and HoldCo is intended to be formed as a new company with a clean
slate, such a vesting of debts, liabilities and obligations may not be required. If the HoldCo
is required to replace BPDB as a party to any contract, this may be done either by an
amendment to P.O.59 by insertion of a section vesting such contractual obligations upon
BPDB, or by novation of contract.

e) Whether a Deed of Agreement (Vendor’s Agreement) is to be required between the


Holding Company and the Government.

A vendor’s agreement may be required between BPDB and HoldCo in respect of the sale
and transfer of the shares held by BPDB in the subsidiary companies to HoldCo. No such
agreement will be required between the Government and HoldCo unless it is intended for
the Government to transfer any property, including shares, owned by the Government
(rather than BPDB) to the HoldCo.

f) How the Sponsor Company will be selected by the Holding Company and what
sorts of formalities are to be maintained with the Government for that?

The term “Sponsor Company” is not understood. If the intention is “Subsidiary Company”,
then all of BPDB’s existing subsidiaries as well as future operations to be corporatized are
to be transferred to HoldCo following the processes described in the Final Report.

g) To redress or to settle the above observations whether a simple Amendment of


P.O.59 of 1972 is sufficient or a new Act/ordinance is essential. It should be
mentioned/explained clearly.

In fact, a new statutory provision, whether by amendment of P.O.59, or by a new


enactment, will not be necessary to address any of the observations made above. As a
matter of abundant caution, should the Government so think necessary, a section may be
inserted in P.O.59 by amendment, similar to the existing Section 32(6), providing for the
formation of a holding company and for removing any difficulty arising out of, or in
connection with, the formation of the holding company.

NOTE: Please see attached scanned amendment to the Bangladesh Biman


Corporation Ordinance 1977 which was enacted to convert Bangladesh Biman
Corporation in its entirety to a public limited company. This is not appropriate in the case
of BPDB as BPDB is not being dissolved, but a separate legal entity, HoldCo, is being
created.

E-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
E: Responses to BPDB Queries on Corporate Establishment. . .

E-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
E: Responses to BPDB Queries on Corporate Establishment. . .

E-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX F: SAMPLE PERFORMANCE CONTRACT

F.1 INTRODUCTION

This document sets out the intentions of the Board of HoldCo with respect to the
operations of the Group over the years 2010-2015. It has been prepared and submitted to
the Shareholders and, when accepted (possibly after negotiation and amendment), will
constitute a performance contract between the Board and the Shareholder.

F.2 GENERAL STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

HoldCo’s purpose is to play a major part in giving effect to the Government’s power sector
reform objectives as set out in the Government’s 1994 publication Power Sector Reforms
in Bangladesh and the subsequent 2000 Vision Statement.

F.3 SCOPE OF BUSINESS

HoldCo’s principal function is to own controlling interests in companies that exist or will in
future exist to own and operate the Government’s power sector assets that are at present
directly or indirectly owned and operated by BPDB and its subsidiaries or other
Government entities. It may take interests in other power companies as well.

The principal activities of subsidiary companies are generation, transmission and


distribution of electric power.

F.4 OBJECTIVES & STRATEGIES

HoldCo’s principal objective is to ensure that its subsidiary companies are efficiently
directed, financed and managed.

HoldCo’s principal strategies to achieve its objective are:


• Ensure the highest level of direction and management of all companies in
the Group
• Employ capable professional staff to implement Board policies
• Provide Group-wide policies on key issues such as:
i. Evaluation, selection and financing of capital works
ii. Health, safety and environmental management
iii. Accounting and financial reporting policies
iv. Information and communication technology
v. Risk management, including compliance with relevant laws and
regulations
vi. Human resource management, including recruitment, training and
remuneration and related matters
• Implement a performance management system that will identify subsidiary
resources and plans and establish corresponding performance targets,
monitor group operational and financial performance against those targets,
and reward subsidiaries or take remedial action where necessary

F-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
F: Sample Performance Contract. . .

• Based on a review of the overall system plan, corresponding budget


requirements and resource availability, determine the optimal allocation of
capital among Group companies so as to best achieve overarching targets
agreed with the Government
• Provide technical assistance or support to subsidiaries drawing on broader
Group experience or resources to help them achieve their targets.

F.5 FINANCIAL & OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE TARGETS AND MEASURES

The effectiveness of HoldCo will be reflected in the operational and financial results of its
subsidiaries. Group-wide operational performance ratios reflect commercial performance.
The consolidated financial statements of HoldCo reflect the financial performance of the
Group.

F.5.1 Operational Performance–major objectives

[These objectives should reflect or support the Government’s broader sector-wide


objectives]

Generation: [here are planned totals of generating capacity to be available]

Transmission: [here major construction or rehabilitation projects are summarized by


completion date]

Distribution: [here are summarized major capital works by completion date and impacts on
performance]

F.5.2 Operational Performance–summary’

[Note that HoldCo commences operations with effect from 1 July 2009, so the first
reporting year is FY 2010. Although the planning period is five years, projections below
run to FY 2015, which is the end of the FRRP projections.]

F-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
F: Sample Performance Contract. . .

Item Unit 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Total sales GWh
Bulk - REB %
HV %
MV %
LV %
Retail connections k
Revenue yield Tk / kWh

System losses % Sent out


Generation plant factor % time
Transmission outages No
Transmission outages Av duration mins
Distribution outages No
Distribution outages Av duration mins

System peak demand MW


Load shed at peak %

Capital works
Expenditure % budget
Completed works % on time by value
Completed works % budget

F.5.3 Financial Performance

Item Unit 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Profitability
Operating Return on Av. Net Fixed Assets i/s % BTBI 3.7% 4.7% 5.1% 5.2% 5.3% 5.4%
Return on Revenue % BTBI 23% 24% 23% 21% 20% 19%
Net return on Equity % ATAI 7.3% 8.9% 9.1% 9.0% 8.7% 8.6%

Productivity
Revenue : Total Capital Employed % 35% 38% 41% 43% 47% 48%
Return on Total Capital Employed % BTBI 8.0% 9.0% 9.3% 9.3% 9.4% 9.4%

Liquidity
Current assets : current liabilities ratio
Trade debtors Months' rev
Long Term Debt : Equity ratio 2.4 2.3 2.1 2.0 1.9 1.8
LT Liabilities : (LT Liabilities + Equity) % 71% 69% 68% 67% 65% 64%
Debt Service Cover % 10% 11% 13% 13% 14% 14%
Selffinancing ratio % 3 yr CapEx

BTBI : B efore T ax, I nterest


ATBI : After T ax, I nterest

F-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
F: Sample Performance Contract. . .

F.5.4 Capital Structure–consolidated

Item Unit 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015


Paid in capital 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615 90 615
Retained income 5 654 13 511 21 902 26 852 34 475 39 493
less Share purchase premium 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481 3 481
Shareholders' equity 92 788 100 645 109 036 113 986 121 608 126 626
Minority interest in PGCB 5 167 5 844 6 692 7 615 8 602 9 656
Total shareholders' funds M Tk 97 955 106 489 115 728 121 601 130 210 136 282

Long term liabilities & provisions 228 481 230 293 230 963 227 464 224 305 222 965

Total Capital Employed M Tk 326 436 336 782 346 691 349 065 354 515 359 247

F.6 BASIS FOR PERFORMANCE TARGETS

[The Group performance targets stipulated above are predicated on a number of factors
outside the control of the Group. In certain cases, performance will depend on delivery on
commitments by the Government, e.g. financing and subsidies, or on decisions by the
Regulator, e.g. tariff levels. While the Government has the authority as Shareholder to
change or reward the management of HoldCo, it also has an obligation to provide support
or resources that have been promised. The Performance Contract must make these
mutual obligations between HoldCo and Government explicit. In addition, other key
exogenous factors should be highlighted to help determine ex-post whether a deviation
from target performances is the result of Board performance or factors outside its control]

The financial and operational performance targets have been developed based on
assumptions regarding various exogenous factors, financing availability, tariff levels, and
subsidies. Each set of assumptions is discussed in turn below.

F.6.1 Exogenous Factors

[The financial and operational objectives have been established on the basis of various
factors outside the control of HoldCo. Such factors include fuel prices, inflation, the
frequency and intensity of cyclones, other force majeure events, etc. These assumptions
should be enumerated here]

F.6.2 Financing Availability

[The financial projections obviously depend on continuing investment. Realization of


planned investment will also affect operational performance. This section should
enumerate the type and amount of financing expected each year, and for debt financing,
the interest rate and tenor]

F.6.3 Tariff Levels

[Tariffs are set by the Regulator, and hence are outside the control of HoldCo.
Nonetheless, they are a critical driver of financial performance, and indirectly, of
operational performance. Assumed tariff levels can be expressed as a sales-weighted
average annual tariff yield. However, SubCos obligations to prepare tariff filings in
compliance with regulations should also be noted here.]

F-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
F: Sample Performance Contract. . .

F.6.4 Subsidies

[Any Government subsidies that are included in the financial projections should be noted
here. An example is given below]

HoldCo’s distribution subsidiaries provide a first block of power to their customers below
cost as mandated by the Regulator. Based on the forecast sales for each of the following
years, the following table sets out the amount of assumed Government compensation in
the form of subsidies. Details have been submitted to the Regulator for confirmation of
reasonableness.

Item Unit 2010 2011 2012 2013


No of customers k 2 100 2 200 2 400 2 550
Average consumption pa kWh 525 600 610 625
Total sales below cost GWh 1 103 1 320 1 464 1 594
Average yield Tk/kWh 2.00 2.02 2.04 2.06
Expected revenue M Tk 2 205 2 666 2 987 3 284
Cost Tk/kWh 4.85 4.89 4.93 4.97
Cost M Tk 5 347 6 453 7 214 7 917
Subsidy sought M Tk 3 142 3 787 4 228 4 633

F.7 REPORTING

The Board shall report to the Shareholders as follows:

• Within two months of the end of each quarter: summarized financial


statements indicating the results of the Group against operating and capex
budgets and performance against the targets in the Performance
Contract.29

• Within three months of the end of each financial year: audited financial
statements and accompanying directors’ and CEO’s reports.30

The Chairman shall keep the Shareholders informed about any significant matters that
arise, especially matters affecting public expenditure, safety of staff and public, and the
supply of power.

F.8 DIVIDEND POLICY

The directors to propose to pay dividends when the following conditions are met:

• The HoldCo Group is profitable

• Sufficient cash is available

• The ratio of debt/(debt+equity) is less than 70 per cent.

29
It is proposed to follow US practice and have the auditor review the reports and make
limited comment on them.
30
Contracts with auditors incorporate these deadlines.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
F: Sample Performance Contract. . .

Dividends are expected to be payable from FY 2011 at five per cent of paid up capital,
approximately one third of tax paid profit

F.9 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Group shall observe the requirements of Bangladesh Accounting Standards.

The Board has elected to follow the fair value approach of presenting the value of fixed
assets in service and therefore of shareholder’s equity, generally in accordance with BAS
16. The cost of fixed assets in service will be restated not less often than three-yearly to
reflect changes in replacement cost depreciated at rates that reflect capital consumption
over the economic lives of plant items.

F.10 COMMERCIAL VALUE OF GOVERNMENT’S INVESTMENT

The commercial value of the Government’s investment in the HoldCo Group as at 30 June
2010 is estimated to be Tk 100,200 million, based on market value of shares of PGCB
plus the lesser of depreciated replacement cost of fixed assets plus working capital and
the present worth of future cash flows.

F.11 PROCEDURE FOR SALE & PURCHASE OF SHARES OR ASSETS

[The Group’s five year financing plan will show the extent, if any, to which it is proposed to
finance its operations by the sale of equity in subsidiaries or the issue of shares in
HoldCo.]

Per the Articles of Association, and subject to Shareholder approval and the requirements
of the Companies Act:

• Shares in subsidiaries will be sold or new shares will be issued at values


established by independent valuers

• A & B shares in HoldCo will be issued on the same basis but in proportions
that retain the Government’s minimum controlling interest of 51 per cent.

F.12 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The Board has reviewed the requirements and recommendations of the SEC, the
Bangladesh Enterprise Institute and the OECD and drawn up a set of principles and
practices that will be incorporated in a manual that reflects the Board’s view of the best
interests of the Group’s stakeholders. Major subjects to be included in the manual are
noted hereunder.

F.12.1 Code of Practice

The Board will draw up and issue a code of practice for directors, managers and all
employees of the Group. It will include directors’ obligations; director and employees
standards of behavior; conflicts of interest; receipt and use of company information, gifts
and property; compliance with HoldCo’s policies and processes, relevant legislation and
regulations; disciplinary measures and processes.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
F: Sample Performance Contract. . .

F.12.2 Independent Directors

The HoldCo’s constitution limits Government employees as directors to not more than one
third. The majority of directors is therefore always independent.

F.12.3 Chairman & CEO

The Chairman of directors will be non-executive. The President (Managing Director) is the
Group’s chief executive officer.

F.12.4 Board Committees

The Board will set up the following committees with appropriate terms of reference:

• Audit and Risk Management

• Finance and Planning

• Information Technology

• Technical

• Human Resources, Nomination and Remuneration

F.12.5 Auditors

The Group’s auditors shall be independent, qualified and appointed by the shareholder for
terms not exceeding three years. They will not normally be employed to provide any other
services than advice on taxation.

F.12.6 Risk management

The Audit & Risk Management Committee, assisted by an executive subcommittee and
such technical advisers as may be necessary, will oversee the establishment of
procedures within the Group for identifying financial, operating and other risks and policies
and procedures to mitigate them

F.13 SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES

[Subsidiary companies and the scope of activities of each are enumerated here.]

Appendix–Consolidated Financial Projections

[A set of consolidated financial statements taken from the Business Plan would be
appended here indicating the planned results and key assumptions on which they are
based.]

F-7
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX G: KEY JOB DESCRIPTIONS

G-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title President & CEO

Reports to Chairman – Board of Directors

Position Responsibilities
• Develop and recommend long term strategies and business plans to the Board of
HoldCo to ensure the viability of HoldCo and the Subsidiaries.
• Implement all strategies and plans approved by the Board of HoldCo.
• Be the Boards representative on the Board of the Subsidiary.
• Submit financial statements, budgets and reports for consideration by the Board.
• Ensure that the HoldCo achieves its financial and long-term business objectives
through effective management of functional departments.
• Ensure that appropriate strategies are in place to manage the company's resources
effectively.
• Ensure the effective financial management of the HoldCo and the Subsidiaries,
including all treasury functions, financial reporting, and planning.
• Ensure that HoldCo fulfills all it statutory obligations
• Ensure that HoldCo and the Subsidiaries keeps abreast of current market,
economic, technology and political trends to maximize business opportunities and
minimize risk.
• Establish effective relationships and performance contracts with the Government
and the Subsidiaries ensuring the delivery on performance contracts are of the
highest quality while meeting the laid objectives.
• Build and maintain an effective working relationship with all senior managers
ensuring all functional groupings align with other organizational priorities and
initiatives
• Provide leadership, vision and direction for all employees of HoldCo and the
Subsidiaries.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Bachelor / Master of Engineering or Technology with a Business Degree


• Minimum 15 – 20 years experience in the power sector
• Cross functional experience in the power sector is a must
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Vice President – Financial Planning

Reports to President & CEO

Position Responsibilities
• Responsible for the internal management of the financial planning department
ensuring that all financial objectives, requirements and timeframes are met.
• Obtain information from Government System Planner, review Subsidiary technical
plans and designs and conduct techno feasibility studies on subsidiary plans for
better financial planning. Evaluate proposed projects and provide technical
expertise as required related to financial planning and management.
• Identify the financing requirements including Capex, loans, repayments etc. for the
subsidiaries.
• Identify sources of funds and conduct negotiations with funding agencies on terms
and in turn negotiate terms with subsidiaries for their financing requirements.
• Provide senior management with financial reports, statistics, forecasts and other
information necessary for effective financial planning, management and control of
the HoldCo and the subsidiaries including monitoring of net position and develop
strategies for managing surpluses or shortfalls.
• Participate in the development of the HoldCo accounting policies and ensure that
accounting methods and procedures are used in accordance with HoldCo policies.
Develop financial reporting procedures for the subsidiaries.
• Oversee production of financial and management accounts, budgeting and
forecasting, treasury, financial decision making and tax responsibilities
• Understand and anticipate financial risks, putting in place appropriate strategies to
avoid and/or alleviate negative outcomes
• Manage and maintain effective relationships with Banking and Insurance service
providers and negotiate best terms / rates with them. Insure the subsidiary and
where applicable HoldCo assets.
• Member of Senior Management team and contributor to strategic direction and
development of the HoldCo's long range strategies and business plans.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Bachelor / Master of Engineering or Technology with a Business Degree –


preferably with specialization in Finance
• Minimum 15 years experience in the power sector
• In depth understanding of the financial planning requirements in the power sector
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Vice President – Performance Management

Reports to President & CEO

Position Responsibilities
• Develop performance parameters for evaluation and Monitoring of performance of
HoldCo and Subsidiaries.
• Negotiate between the parties concerned on drawing up of performance contracts
and the targets laid therein. Present the results of the negotiations on performance
to the management and Board of the HoldCo.
• Assist development of performance contracts and evaluation criteria including
promoting adoption of best practices.
• Set procedures for monitoring of performance contracts and ensure collection,
collation and analysis of data with regard to evaluating performance against set
targets.
• Use data available and create a detailed set of Benchmarks related to performance
targets.
• Ensure compliance across HoldCo and subsidiaries in meeting norms related to
environment, human resources etc.
• Audit performance contract related issues across subsidiaries.
• Develop IT policy across the HoldCo and the subsidiaries. Identify and develop MIS
requirements between HoldCo and Subsidiaries and ensure compliance.
• Ensure IT enablement of services and data across the HoldCo and the subsidiaries.
• Member of Senior Management team and contributor to strategic direction and
development of the HoldCo's long range strategies and business plans.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Bachelor / Master of Engineering or Technology with a Business Degree


• Minimum 15 years experience in the power sector
• Well versed with both financial and technical aspect of operations in the power
sector
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Vice President – Program and Projects

Reports to President & CEO

Position Responsibilities
• Review, monitor and implement multi lateral donors / government funded projects
at HoldCo and Subsidiary level
• Develop procedures for project planning and monitoring as per donor guidelines.
Report on a regular basis progress and achievements. Present the report to the
HoldCo management and the Board.
• Prepare project plan, terms of reference for new projects in coordination with the
donors.
• Identify and Initiate new efficiency improvement programs with subsidiaries.
• Develop project plan for such programs with subsidiaries and monitor
implementation and success. Identify key resources across the sector to work on
these special program
• Develop and document key processes to ensure better coordination between the
Subsidiaries and the HoldCo.
• Member of Senior Management team and contributor to strategic direction and
development of the HoldCo's long range strategies and business plans.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Bachelor / Master of Engineering or Technology with a Business Degree


• Minimum 15 years experience in the power sector
• Past experience in Project Monitoring and Implementation is a must.
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title General Manager – Accounting

Reports to Vice President – Financial Planning

Position Responsibilities
• Prepare accounting statements and reports in compliance with the requirements as
set by the Bangladesh Accounting Standards.
• Ongoing contribution to and evaluation of, legislative and financial report
requirements, and modification to accounting procedures and systems where
necessary
• Consolidation of Accounts of the HoldCo and the Subsidiaries and preparation of
consolidated financial statements.
• Provide financial reports inputs for preparation of Annual report of the HoldCo
• Responsible for Treasury Asset Management.
• Ensure financial priorities are identified and actioned swiftly
• Maintain overall accuracy of the accounting system including all ledgers
• Coach, lead and supervise accounts and support staff

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Chartered Accountant with minimum 10 - 14 years experience in accounting and


related activities
OR
• M.Com with atleast 15 years experience in audit
OR
• B.Com with Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Management with 15 -20 years
experience in accounting
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title General Manager – System Planning Review

Reports to Vice President – Financial Planning

Position Responsibilities
• Carry out design review of engineering plans of the subsidiaries through application
of the knowledge of engineering theory and practice.
• Identify any problems in the design if any and provide recommendations
• Conduct and present techno feasibility of the reviewed design as input for financial
planning activity.
• Review master plan of the government as obtained from Single buyer. Ascertain
feasibility of subsidiary plans ensuring that it is in line with the master plan.
• Prepare preliminary and/or detailed estimates cost estimates for the submitted plan.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Engineering Graduate
• Minimum 12 – 14 years experience preferably in the power sector
• Past experience in System design and review is a must
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title General Manager – IT & MIS

Reports to Vice President – Performance Review and Monitoring

Position Responsibilities
• Develops, together with the Vice Presidents of the HoldCo a cost effective and
sustainable IT strategy for the HoldCo through consultation and collaboration with
all Departments.
• Implement practicable cost effective Information Technology Solutions to ensure
strategic goals of the HoldCo are realized.
• Develop MIS parameters and develop mechanism of data exchange between the
HoldCo and the Subsidiaries including IT enablement of this process.
• Manage and coordinate the maintenance of the operating systems and software to
ensure user requirements are being met as effectively as possible from a systems
perspective
• Implement procedures and controls to effectively manage the use of the Information
Technology System
• Create, implement, maintain and review Information Technology specific
processes, methods, principles of working, systems and models that are the most
effective and reflect the business needs and develop and enhance them on a
regular and on-going basis, to generate continuous improvement in quality and
service.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Engineering Graduate with IT Specialization


• Minimum 12 – 14 years experience preferably in the power sector
• Past experience in development of MIS systems is a must
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Senior Manager / Manager – Internal Audit

Reports to Chairman – Board of Directors

Position Responsibilities
• Monitor the achievements of the organizational objectives
• To identify, assess and manage risks to those objectives
• To advise on, formulate internal audit policy
• To ensure compliance with policies, laws and regulations
• To ascertain the integrity and reliability of financial and other information provided
to management and stakeholders, including those used in decision making
• To ascertain that systems of control are laid down and operate to promote the most
economic, efficient and effective use of resources and to safeguard assets
• Lead and manage a team of auditors to conduct regular audit and checks across
the HoldCo and in some situations the subsidiaries.
• Review Subsidiaries Internal Audit Report and present findings to the Board.
• Trains staff and creates a positive learning and working environment through
delegation and coaching.
• Add value by acting as a facilitator in business risk management and carrying our
value for money reviews, thereby assisting the management and the board of the
HoldCo in the effective discharge of their responsibilities.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Chartered Accountant with minimum 7 - 10 years experience in auditing and


related activities
OR
• M.Com with atleast 10 - 12 years experience in audit
OR
• B.Com with Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Management with 10 – 12 years
experience in audit
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Senior Manager / Manager – Corporate Communications

Reports to President & CEO

Position Responsibilities
• Create, implement and oversee communication programs that effectively describe
and promote the organization and its objectives
• Prepare presentations for effectively communicating company programs and
policies to employees and other stakeholders
• Liaison with and build relations with media and other bodies to manage the
corporate image including preparation of publicity and press materials
• Manage internal and external corporate events and ensure the event meets its
intended objective
• Provide corporate communications support to subsidiaries as and when required
• Develop confidence in HoldCo involving various public stakeholders and positioning
the HoldCo as a company of choice through communication activities.
• Regularly communicate, coordinate and create and maintain good and cordial
contacts with administrative, legislative and judicial members of the Royal
government.
• Keep the employees informed of the important sector (industry) changes at all unit
levels that could have impact or affect HoldCo or its Subsidiaries.

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Graduate with Business Degree


• Communications specialization
• Minimum 10 years experience preferably in the power sector
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Senior Manager / Manager – Human Resources & Training

Reports to President & CEO

Position Responsibilities
• Design, develop and implement Human Resource Strategies consistent with the
business objectives of the HoldCo.
• Provide HoldCo expert knowledge of human resource activities and processes
including recruitment, human resource planning, training and development,
performance management, remuneration and staff benefits.
• Ensure compliance with the obligations of the HoldCo to meet its legislative and
contractual obligations as an employer.
• Identify long-term staffing resource issues, including planning for succession and
development and delivering training strategies to resolve resource issues.
• Training needs analysis to determine organizational and individual training needs
including preparation of annual training plans including monitoring and evaluation of
training and development programs
• Ensure that the Human Resources Cell achieves its targets and business
objectives through effective and integrated leadership and management of all its
functions

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Graduate with Business Degree with specialization in Human Resources


• Minimum 10 years experience preferably in the power sector
JOB DESCRIPTION

Title Senior Manager / Manager – Corporate Communications

Reports to President & CEO

Position Responsibilities
• Develop and oversee systems that ensure company’s compliance with all legal and
statutory requirements
• Ensure the Group's compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
• Provide advice in relation to the Group's acquisitions, disposals and other corporate
and contractual transactions, whether financial or otherwise
• Providing legal support to the Subsidiaries as and when required.
• Responsible for maintaining Shareholder relations including register of
shareholders and monitoring changes in share ownership
• Represent the HoldCo at the Registrar of Companies on all company related
matters.
• Arrange Annual General Meetings, prepare agendas, Minutes of the meeting and
assist in the production of company annual reports
• Monitor changes in relevant legislation and regulatory environment and take
appropriate action

Position Competencies
Some of the competencies required for the position are:
• Performance Focus
Committed to exceeding targets and improving performance and does this by
being creative and innovative. Links business plan goals and key result
areas with stakeholder needs in order to achieve goals.
• Commercial Orientation
Develops and implements innovative and robust business strategies which
explore opportunities and display a thorough appreciation of the market and
industry conditions, risks and anticipated stakeholder needs.
• Managing Change
Displays a positive attitude to change and persists in the face of ongoing
obstacles and challenges by maintaining morale and enthusiasm.
• Teamwork
Leads, contributes to, and co-operates willingly with the team and promotes
team spirit. Communicates needs clearly and effectively by clarifying
responsibilities, goals and outcomes to be achieved.
• Leadership & Vision
Actively promotes HoldCo’s principles and the organization's strategies and
goals internally and externally. Represents policies and decisions of HoldCo
positively. Inspires others to adopt the principles and goals of the
organization. Promotes and adopts the creation and implementation of
innovative approaches, new ideas and methods. Is able to consider requests
to change plans and goals with an open mind; and to evaluate others’ views
logically.

Qualification

• Graduate with Degree in Law


• Minimum 10 years experience with in depth understanding of the power sector
operations
APPENDIX H: VALUATION OF FIXED ASSETS & INVESTMENTS

H.1 PURPOSE OF PAPER

The GoB’s plan for development of the power sector envisions that all entities in it will in
time become operating subsidiaries of a holding company. It is therefore necessary to
examine briefly the policies that have been followed to date in the sector, notably in the
bifurcation of BPDB to create DESA and, subsequently, DESA’s spin-off of DESCO, as
well as in the formation of BPDB’s present subsidiaries, APSC, PGCB and WZPDCL.

This paper examines policies adopted and recommendations made in the past, identifies
issues relating to the valuation of assets intended for long term holding and prior to their
transfer to a NewCo31 and options for dealing with them.

In principle, the valuation of fixed assets in all companies in the sector should be made on
bases that are mutually consistent, economically justified and commercially sound. It is
essential that the accounting policies employed by a group of subsidiaries of one holding
company are the same.

Achieving a consistent and logical basis of fixed asset valuation throughout the HoldCo
group is an issue that will need to be resolved in due course by the Board of HoldCo. The
financial projections in the FRRP, which have been adopted for the purpose of presenting
HoldCo’s and the HoldCo group’s opening balance sheets and financial projections, are
based on the existing (2006) book value of fixed assets in the various companies.

H.2 SITUATION

BPDB’s fixed assets have been valued on various bases for establishing total capital
employed32 in NewCos. They differ from one another and from the values in BPDB’s
books. Most differ from the customary methodology for assessing current values of
infrastructure assets for financial reporting purposes.

Since an important aim of restructuring the power sector into companies is to make the
sector financially viable, efficient and commercial33 it is important that realistic values are
placed on the capital employed in each company. The major component of capital
employed in the power sector is electrical plant and equipment, i.e., fixed assets.

H.2.1 BPDB

BALANCE SHEET

The value of BPDB’s fixed assets in its balance sheet was restated in 1992. Since that
time additions have been included at cost. Thus, the value in the latest accounts (2005) is
a mixture of taka of differing purchasing power, it is understated in 2005 taka, and the real

31
‘NewCo’ refers to any subsidiary of BPDB or DESA whether already existing or to be
formed. The proposed holding company is referred to as ‘HoldCo.
32
Total Capital Employed = Working Capital + Fixed Assets = Long term liabilities + Owners'
Equity; Working Capital = Current Assets - Current Liabilities.
33
As stated in the GoB’s Policy Statement on Power Sector Reforms, January, 2000.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

cost of capital consumption is likewise understated each year while the operating profit is
overstated. It follows that, if the tariff were constructed to reflect book costs, the rates in it
would also be understated.34

It should be noted that there is an asymmetry in BPDB’s accounting for fixed assets and
the foreign currency denominated loans that financed a large part of them: loans not yet
due for repayment are revalued annually and the resulting gain or, more usually, loss due
to devaluation of the taka, is charged to revenue. No corresponding restatement of the
foreign content of fixed assets is made. The effect is to understate the value of reported
equity when, in fact, losses on foreign debt are complemented by an (unrecorded)
increase in replacement cost of the assets they financed.

Transfers from capital works in progress to fixed assets in service are not supported by
schedules that identify the works in the detail needed, for example, to identify clearly all
the distribution assets created within the Zones in which they exist. Total fixed assets are
not subdivided further than by the main functions of generation, transmission, distribution
and ‘other’.35

IVVR

In 2000 BPDB set up a project–the asset Identification, Verification, Valuation & Recording
(IVVR) project–to undertake a country-wide inventory of fixed assets and stores.36

This was a major project and resulted in a complete inventory and up-to-date valuation of
BPDB’s fixed assets and stores. The 2000 valuation was based on assessed replacement
cost of assets and remaining service lives. Table 1 gives the book values of BPDB’s fixed
assets at 30 June 2000. Table 2 gives the values resulting from the reappraisal made as
at the same date.

Table 3 compares the appraised value of fixed assets with BPDB’s balance sheet values
at 30 June 2000.

Overall, the appraised value of assets in 2000 is 43 per cent higher than the book values
at the same date and about the same as the increase in the GPI between 1992 and 2000.

H.2.2 2005 Update

The IVVR values at 2000 have been updated in the following way:
• Additions and disposals37 shown in BPDB’s financial statements were taken
into account in the relevant year

34
We understand that BPDB decided in June 2005 to adopt the IVVR 2000 valuation of fixed
assets in its financial statements for FY 2006.
35
However, additions since 2000 are mostly identifiable by project and those that affect more
than one distribution zone were allocated on rational bases.
36
The intention was not only to establish reliable asset records but to integrate the asset and
stores systems with the general ledger established under the FMU project. However, like
the FMU systems, the IVVR system lapsed for want of management commitment to
funding and extending it country-wide. It has not been updated since 2000.
37
Mainly to Ashuganj Power Station Co Ltd and Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd.

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H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

• Additions were depreciated using average overall rates derived from BPDB’s
financial statements
• Movements in the 12 month average General Inflation Index published by the
Bangladesh Bank were used to express the resulting replacement costs and
depreciation provisions in terms of 2005 purchasing power.

Table 4 compares the book value of fixed assets as per the financial statements for
FY 2005 with the value restated in terms of 2005 purchasing power. Table 5 shows the
allocation of fixed assets to actual or proposed NewCos after restating the values. Some
assets of PGCB and WZPDC are still in BPDB’s 2005 balance sheet.

Table 1: Book Value of Fixed Assets at 30 June 2000


Land Buildings Plant Other Total
Sector
M Taka

Generation 7 504 5 134 58 704 121 71 462


Transmission 878 392 16 546 30 17 845
Distribution 1 886 1 478 32 927 78 36 369
Other 4 82 1 217 491 1 795
10 272 7 085 109 393 720 127 471

Table 2: Appraised Value of Fixed Assets at 30 June 2000


Land Buildings Plant Other Total
Sector
M Taka

Generation 5 718 9 126 78 963 237 94 043


Transmission 3 222 1 368 40 147 94 44 832
Distribution 8 970 2 686 23 491 4 198 39 344
Other 3 246 586 70 239 4 141
21 155 13 766 142 671 4 768 182 360

Table 3: Comparison of Appraised & Book Values of Fixed Assets at 30 June 2000
Land Buildings Plant Other Total
Sector
Appraised Value % of Book Value

Generation 76 178 135 196 132


Transmission 367 349 243 316 251
Distribution 476 182 71 5 355 108
Other 79 166 714 6 49 231
206 194 130 662 143

Table 4: Fixed Assets of BPDB at 30 June 2005, M Tk.

Item Revalued Cost Depreciation Nett BV


Restated value 252 712 115 306 137 406
Reported value 172 956 101 392 71 564
Appraisal surplus 79 756 13 914 65 842

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H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

Table 5: Allocation of BPDB Fixed Assets at 30 June 2005, Restated M Tk.

Item Revalued Cost Depreciation Nett BV


OtherGenerating Cos 147 313 69 352 77 960
PGCB 31 291 13 992 17 299
NZPDC 29 117 10 919 18 198
CZPDC 15 507 7 201 8 306
WZPDC 6 354 5 191 1 163
SZPDC 15 502 6 863 8 639
BPDB for disposal 7 627 1 786 5 841
Restated value 252 712 115 306 137 406

H.2.3 Ashuganj Power Station Company Ltd (APSCL)

BPDB-appointed consultants38 appraised the value of fixed assets at Tk 21,130 million as


at 7 January 2003 on the basis of depreciated replacement cost.

ADB-appointed consultants39 considered the result “unrealistic and unsustainable in terms


of the future revenue earning capacity of the plants” and therefore based their valuation on
the historic cost of assets determined from a range of documents including project costs
records, project Pro-formas and Project Completion Reports. The resulting valuation,
allowing for the remaining service lives, was Tk 13,088 million.

The agreement for the transfer of fixed assets dated 22 May 2003 records a value of
Tk 19,892 million. A paragraph in the agreement notes that BPDB and the Ashuganj
Power Station Co Ltd agreed to finalize the value of net assets and liabilities with
assistance from an IVVR consultant on the basis of “international commercial norms and
international accounting standards”.40

Based on updated IVVR data, the replacement cost of assets transferred to APSC as at
the end of FY 2003 was Tk 52,705 million and accumulated depreciation was Tk 28,526
million, a net value of Tk 24,179 million, 60 per cent greater than the value used to
capitalize APC and not out of line with the independent valuation of Tk 21,130 million.

The value of assets acquired from BPDB has been settled at Tk 15,117 million, a figure
reduced to make the company appear profitable while selling prices are held down.41

H.2.4 West Zone Power Distribution Company Ltd (WZPDCL)

The Consultant for the corporatization of the West Zone distribution operations
summarized the IVVR value of assets to be taken over by WZPDCL at Tk 7176 million.

38
Consortium of M R Hasan & Associates for the IVVR Project. See later Note re Power
Stations.
39
Nexant under TA 3343-BAN.
40
The valuation of plant is an accounting matter only to the extent that Bangladesh
Accounting Standard 16, Property, Plant and Equipment, requires values reported in
financial statements to be based on either DHC or DRC and prescribes the treatment of
appraisal surpluses and deficits.
41
See later Note re Relationship Between Asset Values & Energy Prices

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H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

Some adjustments were made to reflect the results of check inspections of significant
assets to verify the reliability of the IVVR quantities and remaining asset service lives.

The Consultant made valuations on two bases:


• Written down original cost having regard to expected residual lives
• Earnings capability, i.e., present worth of net future cash flows.

The first basis gave a total value of Tk 4308 million; the second, recommended value was
Tk 4754 million.42

The IVVR valuation of fixed assets employed by WZPDCL at 30 June 2005 is Tk 8204
million, 70-90 per cent greater than the Consultant’s valuations.43

H.2.5 South Zone Power Distribution Company (SZPDC)

The consultant’s Final Report for the corporatization of SZPDC44 gives in the opening
balance sheet, without explanation, fixed assets a value of Tk 20,716 million.. Since the
first projections made are for FY 2009, we infer that the date of the opening balance sheet
is 1 July 2008.

No information is given in the report to enable reconciliation of this value with the results of
the updated IVVR value given in Table 5, which assessed the DRC of fixed assets in the
South Zone at 30 June 2005 at Tk 8639 million.

H.2.6 Power Grid Company (PGCB)

A series of five agreements between BPDB and PGCB records the transfer of assets at
historic cost less depreciation. Some of the assets were formerly owned by the East
Pakistan Power Development Board and no records remained. Estimates of cost of some
assets were made by working backwards from the pre-1992 revaluation of assets in
BPDB’s books.

Based on updated IVVR data, the current depreciated replacement cost of assets
transferred from BPDB to PGCB as at the end of FY 2003 plus the balance remaining in
BPDB’s books at FY 2005 is Tk 47,969 million. This sum does not include assets taken
over from DESA. The total is almost twice the net book value shown in PGCB’s financial
statements as at FY 2005 and reflects the understatement of asset values acquired by
PGCB as a result of using depreciated historic costs.

H.2.7 DESA

At the time of writing (June 2006) we had not received information about the basis on
which DESA’s fixed assets are valued.

42
British Power International’s report Review of Existing Fixed Assets, March 2004, did not
disclose how revenue was calculated in its cash flow model. The discount rate used was
6.6 per cent.
43
It is noted that BPDB’s financial statements for FY 2005 show the transfer of fixed assets to
WZPDC at a net Tk 4600 million (IVVR value Tk 7041 million); at the same time, further
assets with a net IVVR value of Tk 1163 million remain in BPDB’s FY 2005 balance sheet.
44
Soluziona, Development of South Zone Power Distribution Project, 3 June 2007.

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H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

H.2.8 DESCO

The Mirpir area fixed assets taken over by DESCO from DESA were valued by ADB-
appointed consultants45 as at 30 June 1997 on the DRC basis. Subsequent transfers were
brought into the books at DRC assessed by DESCO’s engineers.

Worley’s statement of Valuation Principles is excellent and worth reproducing.

2.4 Valuation Principles

Ideally, the final value of the physical assets transferred from DESA to DESC should
represent their market value.. Market value can be defined as the estimated amount for
which an asset should exchange on the date of valuation between a willing buyer and a
willing seller in an arms length transaction after proper marketing wherein the parties had
each acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion.

In this case, however, there is no open market for the assets, and therefore they cannot be
valued in accordance with the market value definition. For this reason, the Depreciated
Replacement Cost (DRC) method has been applied. DRC is based on an estimate of the
current market value of land for its existing use, plus the current gross replacement costs of
network assets less allowances for physical deterioration and obsolescence. The result is
an estimate of the value to DESC in taking over DESA’s Mirpur operations at the valuation
date of 30 June 1997.

The DRC method must always be expressed as subject to adequate potential profitability.
Therefore it combines elements of market and non-market considerations. However,
because the DRC method is concerned with the valuation of individual assets rather than
the business as a whole, it is essentially different from Going Concern Value methods and
concepts and is properly used in this asset valuation for financial statements.

It was suggested to us that the assets be valued at historical replacement cost. If assets
are valued at their historic cost then depreciation and return on capital are recovered on
this basis. Although the capital cost of the assets will be recovered, an inflationary
environment will lead to insufficient return being generated to replace the assets at current
costs. By adopting a depreciated replacement cost regime the market value of equity is
maintained through the periodic revaluation of the asset base. Thus sufficient funds are
able to be provided to renew the asset base. In principle, nominal returns on historic cost
should yield the same net cash flow as real returns on replacement cost.

We considered the use of “deprival” value for this valuation but rejected the concept as
inappropriate in this case. A deprival value is a forward-looking valuation in which assets
are valued at the lesser of their capitalized future earnings or their optimized DRC.
Determination of a future tariff path is necessary for use of this method. Note that a
circularity of argument arises if a price-determined value is adopted and then used as the
base for future tariff fixing.

Use of an optimized DRC (ODRC) was considered, and is an improvement on a DRC


value without going as far as a deprival value. Optimization attempts to answer the
question of whether the overall configuration of the network is optimal and efficient for the
purpose intended, and whether individual elements are correctly sized. Redundant
elements or surplus capacity should be removed from the valuation or written down. All
replacement costs need to be fixed on the basis of modern equivalent assets. To be
theoretically correct, optimization should be applied rigorously. This requires detailed
power systems studies and analysis beyond the scope of the present exercise. However, it

45
Worley International, TA 2715-BAN. At the time the US dollar equalled Tk 45/-.

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H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

is possible to make a rough estimate of the need for optimization if any and this we have
done in Section 3 of the report. Our experience on other valuations suggests that such
adjustments, if necessary, seldom amount to more than around 5% of the total value of the
assets.

H.2.9 Summary of Practices to Date

The values of electrical plant and equipment in sector entities’ financial statements are
expressed in various ways, few consistent with the policy of BPDB from which each
entity’s initial assets were transferred. Even BPDB’s subsidiary companies have been
permitted to adopt lesser values than those in BPDB’s books. Not all assets employed by
subsidiaries have been reflected in their respective books.

BPDB has decided to update the values it uses for financial reporting purposes and its
subsidiary companies should adopt the same basis. It would be contrary to good
accounting practice to consolidate subsidiary assets valued on dissimilar bases.

H.3 VALUATION OPTIONS

It is sound commercial accounting practice for capital intensive industries (such as power,
steel, pulp & paper) to restate the value of fixed assets from time to time, especially during
periods in which the currency is rapidly losing value. By restating fixed asset values the
value of shareholders’ equity more nearly reflects the current economic value of the
investment. Total capital employed is more realistically stated.

In the absence of markets for power system plant and equipment in service it is not
possible to base valuations on market prices. Other bases of setting values are required.
Those available include:
• Book value (BV)
• Depreciated historic cost (DHC)
• Depreciated replacement cost (DRC)
• Going concern value (GCV)
• Optimized deprival value (ODV)

H.3.1 Book Value

BV is simply the amount showing the in the entity’s ledger and reported in its balance
sheet. It is often the depreciated balance of the cost of assets acquired at widely differing
times and therefore includes values recorded in currencies of differing purchasing
power.46 It is not suitable basis for capitalizing capital-intensive industries. It is generally
the same as DHC.47

46
The significance of this may be seen by considering an item of plant purchased in one year
for $1000 and a second one of identical specification and service life purchased later for
$2000: the annual depreciation charge for the first machine will be half that for the second,
but it will cost at least twice as much to replace
47
Under BAS, a company’s ‘books’ may also reflect DRC.

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H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

H.3.2 Depreciated Historic Cost

DHC suffers from two weaknesses:


• Assets acquired at different times are recorded in currencies of differing
purchasing power
• It results in undercharging capital consumption (depreciation) against revenue,
overstating profits, and understating real asset values and equity.

H.3.3 Depreciated Replacement Cost

Under DRC policy, asset values are restated from time to time by substituting for the
historic cost of assets the cost of replacing them with modern assets that provide the
same service and depreciating the higher values. It thereby overcomes the weaknesses in
DHC.

H.3.4 Going Concern Value

Profitable businesses are often valued by reference to the free cash flows that they
generate, i.e., the funds available after meeting debt service obligations, income tax and
normal levels of capital investment for maintenance of system capability.. The present
worth of the free cash flows is the current value of the business. Deduct the value of
working capital and cash and the balance of the value may be attributed to the fixed
assets. However, this is an oversimplification as profitable businesses often have an
intangible asset, goodwill, that is also reflected in the present worth of the free cash flows.
The value of goodwill is not depreciable as plant, so plant values have to be established to
determine the goodwill component and the depreciable asset base.

Going concern values so obtained may be cross-checked against share market valuations
of companies in similar lines of business, using the ratio of market prices to earnings.

It should be noted that the ODV method takes the value of future cash flows into account.

H.3.5 Optimized Deprival Value

The ODV methodology is a two-stage one. First it values system assets by assuming that
the owner is ‘deprived’ of the elements of the supply system which are then notionally
replaced with new assets that will provide equivalent service using modern equivalent
equipment in an ‘optimized’ system (i.e., the lowest cost system that would provide the
same level of service.) The elements of the replacement system are then depreciated
according to age and remaining life of the equipment they replace.

Optimizing the assets of the system requires a level of technical inputs that is beyond the
scope of this technical assistance. An approximation sufficient for present purposes is the
DRC of assets that are to continue in service.48

The second step in valuation is to ensure that the results of the first stage are not
overstated. This requires an assessment of the present worth of the free cash flows49 that

48
Assets not required for efficient operation of NewCos should be retained by BPDB and
disposed of to the best advantage.

H-8
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

asset combinations (such as a power plant or distribution network) are likely to produce in
future.

The commercial value to be assigned to assets is the lower of these two values.

H.4 NOTE RE POWER STATIONS

The real–or economic–value of BPDB’s gas fired power plants can be better estimated by
reference to the prices paid for the output of the IPPs. The ‘revenue’ stream is derived
from the sum of capacity payments and output projections over the service life of the plant
multiplied by the price paid to IPPs; net cash flow is obtained by deducting O & M costs,
including the cost of major overhauls. The resulting cash flows are discounted to arrive at
their present worth, i.e., the value of the power plant. As with ODV, the commercial value
is the lower of DRC or the present worth of the cash flows.50

H.5 NOTE RE COMPANIES

Valuation of utility company shares that are not traded in financial markets differs from the
methods described above only in that all assets and liabilities need to be taken into
account. The principal assets are valued as described. Other assets are valued at
realizable value, i.e., what they can be converted into cash for. Deductions are made for
liabilities at the date of valuation and the result is the total value of the shareholders’
interest. If a sale of shares is contemplated, share values may be adjusted to reflect
price/earnings ratios of similar businesses listed on stock exchanges and other market
factors.

H.6 NOTE RE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ASSET VALUES & ENERGY PRICES

Working papers indicate there was some dissension over the calculation of price for use of
PGC’s system. All calculations were based on costs derived from BPDB’s financial
statements. One paper referred to ‘the abnormal and excessive mark-up based on return
on net fixed assets has arisen due to revaluation of assets in 1991’.. The rate in use
reflects the historic cost of assets and is about 40 per cent below the rate derived from the
higher asset values.51

The Ashuganj consultants rejected asset values derived from DRC methodology,
describing the result “unrealistic and unsustainable in terms of the future revenue earning
capacity of the plants” and therefore based their valuation on the historic cost of assets.

The WZPDCL consultant made valuations on two bases: written down original cost having
regard to expected residual lives and on earnings capability, i.e., present worth of net
future cash flows. The second value was about 10 per cent higher than the first and was

49
Free cash flows are the funds remaining after deducting O & M costs and major
maintenance costs from revenues; their present worth is assessed by discounting the
annual free cash flows at the firm’s weighted average cost of capital (WACC).
50
A valuation of power station assets on this basis is beyond the scope of this technical
assistance.
51
It is noted that PGCB’s UOS charge is based on energy delivered, despite the fact that
none of its costs is incurred on this basis. The main determinants of cost of a transmission
grid are capacity provided (MW) and circuit length (km). Most recurring costs are time-
related. UOS charges commonly reflect these factors.

H-9
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
H: Valuation of Fixed Assets & Investments. . .

recommended. However, since the difference in value was so small it is likely that the
recommended value was still below DRC. Additionally, the basis of calculating revenue
was not given but it is inferred from the relatively low valuation that a continuation of tariffs
similar to existing levels was assumed.

All the examples indicate a view that the cost of supply–as opposed to the price that is
charged–depends inter alia on the value placed on fixed assets. This is not so. The cost of
supply is the real cost of the resources consumed valued in the currency of the day and
that cost is independent of any balance sheet figures. A commercial selling price is one
that recovers the real costs of supply, including the return of the present worth of the
capital sunk into fixed assets and a return on total capital employed.

It needs to be recognized that setting a less-than-commercial level of tariff rates results


not only in an artificially reduced capital base but, more seriously, in cash flows reduced
below the level likely to be necessary to enable a company to maintain, reinforce,
augment and replace fixed assets as needs arise as well as to meet its other obligations.

It is the depression of selling prices below the real, economic level that results in the
commercial value of fixed assets to the business falling below their real value. The
reduction in value so caused is equivalent to a one-off deprecation charge (or write-down)
that is not accounted for in the entity’s income statement nor disclosed to the owners. It is
not recovered from customers either, thereby reducing the internal funds available for
reinvestment and increasing future capital costs.

H.7 ISSUES

A major issue is: what is to be done to value the capital employed by BPDB’s successor
holding and subsidiary companies on a rational and consistent basis? As pointed out, one,
major, determinant of the value of business assets is future net cash flows, but there is not
at present a rational retail pricing policy that enables cash flows to be estimated. Historic
cost is not appropriate given the very large changes in the purchasing power of the
currency over the long lives of electric plant and equipment.

Another issue is BPDB’s failure to adopt the asset records of the IVVR project and to
update them as assets are built, augmented, transferred to other companies or taken out
of service. The longer the interval before incorporating the IVVR asset records in BPDB’s
accounting system and updating them, the greater the effort that will be required to make
inventories of assets transferred to NewCos at vesting date and to place a value on them.

H.8 OUR VIEW

There needs to be a uniform basis that reflects current values used consistently across
the BPDB/DESA groups. The most appropriate basis is depreciated replacement cost
(DRC) of assets that continue in use, restated from time to time to keep them up-to-date.52

52
An alternative for generation plants is suggested above, based on the value of output from
IPPs’ plants.
H-10
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX I: PROPOSED SECTOR FUNDING MODALITIES
PROPOSED
POWER SECTOR INVESTMENT FUNDING PROGRAM (PSIFP)

Rationale

Power demand is growing at a rate of about 10% per annum. A sector wide assessment
indicates that power generation capacity and energy generation will have to be further
increased to support higher GDP growth rates of 6.5% in 2007 and 7% in 2008. By the
year 2015, the required power generation will be 15,000 MW merely to keep pace with
present demand growth. This certainly warrants efficient and timely investment in the
sector. The current public sector investment procedure is extremely time consuming and
cumbersome producing delayed and suboptimal results and pushing the sector further
behind the required schedule in terms of increasing generation capacity. Measures are
needed to address constraints to current public sector funding procedure in the power
sector because power sector investment by nature takes relatively long time and the current
approach makes it more lengthy and protracted as well.

Promoting corporatized entity participation in investment decision making and associated


activity for power sector development is opportune since there is that necessity of
introduction of corporate practices replacing government system, surplus generation and
sustainability at this juncture. For instance, private companies including several
international power developers have demonstrated corporate investment planning and
practices in the power sector of Bangladesh and it is incumbent upon the public sector
corporatized entities to assume the culture of corporate practice.

There will be three principal constraints that would impede realization of the corporate
goal if investment of public resources in the power sector has to continue under the current
mode of Government bureaucratic funding procedure:

• investments are entirely project-specific and provide little or no flexibility for


necessary adjustment and interfacing with other projects as well as leveraging of
funds to make overall sectoral investment efficient;
• project proposal needs to go through many stages of the system mostly for the
similar scrutiny causing long delay and thus making the analysis out of date by the
time the project is approved; and
• every episode of fund release has to go to the Ministry of Finance, sometime also
Planning Commission, and usually funds are released at the fag end of financial
year which greatly hampers implementation of the project.

The proposed Power Sector Investment Funding Program (PSIFP) will be a corporate plan
based initiative to increase flexibility to deploy public resources for meeting more
compelling power sector investment need. The creation of this new program of funding
under a sector-wide approach will also complement actions being in parallel by the private
sector investment activity and to rehabilitate public sector power plants. The funding
nature will be a ‘common pot’ of GoB and donor contribution/outlay. Taken together, this
I-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

approach of investment will bring about overall improvement in the generation and
delivery of electricity services to the people of Bangladesh.

PSIFP Description

The overall objective of the investment funding program is to provide the much needed
corporate and market emphasis on the investment capital even though it is sourced from
public resource allocation and thereby to highlight appropriate cost of capital and ensure
efficient and timely investment in the sector.

This would be designed to address the constraints described above so as to:

• provide flexibility to the holding company to take investment decision based on


ground realities and use the fund efficiently;
• allow Holdco acquire institutional capability to handle investment process
responsibly with the requirement of shifting focus on that of acting in a market
oriented situation;
• meet the long-term investment need of the sector and make the sector financially
viable and sustainable;
• strengthen Holdco’s ability to attract, negotiate and close private sector power
project transactions by building capacity to evaluate and negotiate projects with
private sponsors; and
• secure avenues to increasingly leverage private capital for investment in new
projects.

The objectives are sought to be achieved through creation of a power sector program fund
(named Power Sector Investment Funding Program-PSIFP) of ten years term from a mix
of:
(i) GoB outlay;
(ii) (ii) donor assistance; and
(iii) surplus of the entities channeled through Holdco framework.

The fund size will be about the quantum of power sector investment requirement in the
coming ten years. This will be better decided on the basis of the corporate investment plan
of the Holdco. This will be imbued with the spirit and philosophy of productive capital
investment and surplus generation. Fund will be lent to the subsidiary companies and the
lending component will address the project financing constraint through government.

The lending will be operated through the funding mechanism (the Power Sector Investment
Funding Program -PSIFP). This will be established in a form consistent with GoB’s power
sector development objectives. Its design and operation will take account of corporate
culture and institutional experience of the GoB sponsored donor assisted development
funding mechanism such as Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL) in the
infrastructure sector and Palli Karma Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) in the social sector of
Bangladesh.

I-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

The important thing to note is that the proposed Power Sector Investment Funding Program
(PSIFP) is meant to be a transitional facility and geared to meet GOB’s objectives of
promoting investment in critical power sector projects over the next 6-10 years. The
financing support from the PSIFP will provide up to 80 percent to subsidiaries’ demand,
i.e., project costs as medium-term debt for sound investment. By proving long term debt
finance to the subsidiaries, the Holdco will enable timely investment in projects. There will
be guidelines to help establish a ‘Fund Facilitation Unit’ (FFU) in the Holdco for
interfacing with subsidiaries and of potential projects.

However structured, the PSIFP would have four basic components, an oversight
mechanism (referred to as the Steering Committee), a decision-making body -the Board of
the Holding company, a fund facilitation unit (FFU) and a suitable mechanism to house the
fund preferably in the Bangladesh Bank. In order for the PSIFP to act prudently and enjoy
the confidence of the GoB, it needs to operate on clearly spelled out guidelines and
articulated commercial principles, be professionally and transparently managed and
maintain an efficient interface with the subsidiaries and the Holdco. It is envisaged that in
the near term the PSIFP will be sourced from the commercial sources both home and
abroad.

Fund Facilitation Unit (FFU): The PSIFP will complement ongoing and planned initiatives
for sector development in terms of generation capacity and generation. In general, there
will be scheme for project and fund management skill development training for HoldCo
staff through a TA for capacity building at the FFU and in other relevant units of the
HoldCo. The FFU is expected to house the expertise and skills necessary to
appraise/reappraise and package projects proposed by subsidiary companies, including
facilitation of private participation under different model. A workshop may be organized to
conceptualize and articulate the role and institutional and operational framework of the
proposed PSIFP and FFU at the HoldCo before completion of the first phase (the major
episode) of the migration process of the coporatization program.

Given BPDB’s overall financial situation and enormous power sector investment need
whereas the existence of underdeveloped capital market and the constraints of the private
investment, such financing of capital investment through PSIFP mechanism would lead to
better investment potential and framework within the sector itself. This mechanism would
provide long-term funding window to qualifying projects of the subsidiary companies until
capital markets are more established and other sources particularly the private commercial
ones are forthcoming. Most importantly, it would help GOB leverage scarce resources to
maximum advantage and also the corporatized BPDB play a more integrated and meaning
role in the development of power sector.

PSIFP Structuring and Framework

Under the program, Government and donor funds (multilateral and bilateral) would be
provided as a credit to the HoldCo which would be placed in the proposed Power Sector
Investment Funding Program (PSIFP). The FFU of the HoldCo or the HoldCo will be/have
the institutional mechanism to manage the PSIFP as per the laid out corporate policies and
strict commercial principles. The HoldCo would place loans from PSIFP to eligible
projects from the subsidiaries, on the basis of terms to be determined. The FFU of the
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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

HoldCo would thus have to be equipped to reappraise potential projects, make


recommendations on placement of funds, negotiate terms and inter-creditor agreements,
and supervise and monitor loan accounts. The PSIFP would have four basic components,
an oversight and strategic body-the Steering Committee; a decision-making body-the
‘Board’ of the Holdco; a professionally equipped and market-oriented operational
structure-referred to as Fund Facilitation Unit (FFU); and an institutional mechanism to
house the fund. The PSIFP needs to operate on clearly established and articulated
commercial principles, be professionally managed and maintain an efficient interface with
the HoldCo and the Government.

Basically, three options are suggested here to structure the PSIFP. It has been clarified by
the Ministry of Finance that the Fund itself can be maintained as an account in the
Bangladesh Bank (BB) without having to be a part of the Government's Consolidated
Fund. Thus the PSIFP would be established as a Special Purpose Fund, through which
donor funds would be accounted for and into which loan repayments would be received. It
is recognized that due to the difference in the borrowing rates of GOB from donors, and the
lending rates from the PSIFP (which would be close to long term market lending rates) and
the difference in the maturity of loans between donor/GOB and GOB/HoldCo, the PSIFP
would accumulate a substantial build-up of funds. These would be employed to lend for
other new power projects, as they materialize, thereby ensuring sustainability and future
expansion of such financing. Once established, the Steering Committee would represent
GOB's interest in making decisions about strategic placement of PSIFP funds for candidate
projects. On the other hand, the HoldCo Board should have a clear mandate to apply
commercial principles for choosing investments and make independent decisions.
Government's involvement in investment decision making by the Steering Committee
should be minimized, as it may create a risk of noncommercial decisions and detract from
timely response. Therefore, all operational and institutional implementation shall be
handled/decided by the ‘Board’ of the Holding Company (HoldCo).

Basic Structure of PSIFP

Donors GOB/PSIFP
Steering
Committee
Repayments Fund -overseeing function

HOLDCo
(PSIDF) BOARD

Approvals
Loan disbursement & Recommendations
and Control
Repayment

SubCos FFU
& Projects
Project reappraisal &
Monitoring
Negotiation & Agreement I-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

The FFU of the HoldCo has to perform several critical functions. Besides being the
interface institution between the HoldCo and the subsidiary companies, it needs to have the
capacity and expertise to reexamine/reappraise and negotiate investment funding proposals
from the subsidiary companies and other entities, particularly in the form of projects. The
current BPDB structure has experience of project appraisal and management in line with
Government criteria and guidelines. But the HoldCo would need to sharpen that expertise
and would also need to understand and adopt more professional approach, market
perspective and commercial criteria in managing the fund of the PSIFP. This may require
some training and technical assistance as well, once the fund is structured and established.
As a matter of fact, it may require a high degree of technical, financial and legal acumen to
be performed effectively. Since HoldCo and PSIFP is the lender to the subsidiary/project, it
is in its interest need to ensure that the FFU has the capacity and skills necessary to carry
out these tasks diligently and make sound recommendations to be placed to the Board on
financing/loan proposals. The Manager and staff of the FFU of the HoldCo should have
experience with non-recourse lending for power projects, the ability to participate with
other leading international lenders in project appraisal and loan negotiations, and have a
sound understanding of international procurement practices and standards.

The FFU will necessarily be small; a Manager supported by maximum 5-6 professionals
command in the financial community, definitely domestic but also preferably international.
Although it would be empowered to engage short-term consultants for more specialized
work if specific purposes/projects require so, it would normally be expected that FFU
should be able to marshal these within itself and also obtain such expertise from the
institutional capacity of the HoldCo.

Option 1- The Full Holding Company Option

Under this option, the Fund and the FFU are both housed in the incorporated BPDB-the
Holding Company. The company may be wholly or partially owned by the Government
and manage the PSIFP. The fund utilization, financing and placement and other
management decisions of the Company will be made by the Company's Board of Directors.
It would be overseen and strategically guided by the Steering Committee. In order to be
effective, the Board should have a two Government representation, one is the line
Ministry-the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and the other is the Ministry of
Finance. It should be vested with the necessary autonomy and authority to make fund
utilization and placement decisions, without having to refer the recommendations to GOB
for review and final approval. This is necessary to ensure that decisions are not delayed and
are taken only on the basis of corporate and commercial principles. It would also ensure
that GOB does not have to spend resources in carrying out a review of the appraisal already
done by the FFU. The Board will appoint a General Manager, experts and staff at the FFU
to appraise, negotiate and monitor financing proposal and projects and generally facilitate
financing as per the given guidelines. The General Manager of the FFU should ideally be a
professional investment banker, with international project finance experience. Quality and
expertise of the GM and his staff will be ensured if an international recruitment is carried
out and the HoldCo is authorized to pay competitive private sector salaries. It has been
indicated that it is difficult to introduce these arrangements for a Government Company.
Subject to the HoldCo being able to secure such arrangements on service conditions and

I-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

salaries, the principal advantages of this option would be professional management of the
Fund and the creation of expertise and capacity over time.

Institutional Structure – Option-1

GOB-PSIFP
& Steering Committee

Charter and
Capital/Endowment

Management, Control, Criteria,


Guidelines
HOLDING COMPANY-
HOLDING FUND FACILITATION UNIT
COMPANY-BOARD (FFU)
Analysis and Recommendations

Decisions,
Fund/Financing Interface, Appraisal,
Monitoring
SUBSIDIARY
COMPANY/PROJECTS/
FINANCING

Option 2 - Use of on Bangladesh Bank Option

Under this option, the PSIFP is placed as an off-balance sheet account in the Bangladesh
Bank, the fund will be managed by a specialized unit set up within the Bangladesh Bank,
with a separate Fund Manager newly appointed or seconded staff. The Fund Manager
should ideally be a professional investment banker, with international project finance
experience. The Bangladesh Bank will just administer the fund on the basis of the
recommendation of the Board of the holding company. The FFU of the HoldCo will do
appraisal, negotiation and monitor financing proposals, projects and generally facilitate
financing for the subsidiary sponsored projects. The Bangladesh Bank will make the
placement on the recommendation of the HoldCo.

The Bangladesh Bank will be allowed a small percentage spread on the on-lending rate to
pay for its services and take placement and disbursement responsibility. The principal
advantages of the arrangement are professional management of the Fund and at the same
time confidence that fund are secured and well administered provided the personnel at the
FFU and the Central Bank are chosen carefully.

I-6
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

Institutional Structure – Option-2

GOB-PSIFP
&Steering
Charter/ Committee
BANGLADESH BANK PSIFP
Capital/
ADMINISTRATION AND
Endowment
DISBURSEMENT

Management, Control, Criteria


HOLDINGCO
HLDCO-FFU
MPANY-
BOARD Analysis and Recommendations

Interface,
Appraisal,
Decisions Monitoring

SUBSIDIARY
COMPANY/PRO Funding

Option 3- Agent Bank Option

Under this option, a number of commercial banks will be contracted to manage the Fund
by GOB, on a fee plus incentive basis. Selection of the bank would be dictated by the
relative financial strength and standing of available banks, and may require detailed
assessment of a number of banks short-listed for this purpose. The selection of the agent
banks will be made by the Bangladesh Bank through competitive solicitation. However, to
ensure that the Bank exercises due diligence in placing PSIFP funds as loans on HoldCo’s
recommendations to its subsidiaries, there could be a stipulation that it also cofinance a
percentage of each sub-loan placed, from its own resources (say 20% of the loan, subject to
a ceiling). By stipulating this financial stake, Steering Committee of the PSIFP would
ensure that there are appropriate incentives for the participating Bank (s) to be more
responsible in making loan/fund placement and compensated appropriately. This will be
incentives to the agent bank(s) to exercise due diligence through the deployment of its own
funds in conjunction with the PSIFP.

The FFU as well as the Agent Banks jointly undertake reappraisal of the project or funding
proposal, negotiate and monitor and generally facilitate financing. The FFU will also
manage and maintain the individual sub-loan accounts and effect transfers of principal
repayments and interest to the PSIFP main account of the Government. The oversight of
the FFU and loan placement decisions will be taken by a HoldCo Board under the general
and strategic guidance of the Steering Committee. The Agent Banks will periodically
report to the HoldCo Board and Bangladesh Bank about the status of the utilization of the
PSIFP funds and make demand for further replenishment which will in turn be decided in
the Steering Committee with appropriate recommendation of the HoldCo Board.

I-7
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

The Agent Bank's compliance record in guarding against potential conflicts of interest will
be an issue to be considered, e.g., if the principal lending arm of the Agent were to
participate in senior debt and/or equity financing of a subsidiary company which is also
applying for PSIFP funding. Strict standards and compliance requirements in this respect
would be prescribed as part of the solicitation. The principal advantages of the arrangement
are competitive and professional management of the Fund, incentives to banks to manage
the fund through the fee and commission structure, and the ability to avoid creating or
perpetuating of new government institution. Furthermore, the prospect of independent and
fully commercial management of the Fund will provide comfort to potential applicants.
The option also has the advantage that a wide range of staff expertise will be available
from the parent institution of the Agent Bank.

However, given the generally weak state of the financial sector, the problems with DFIs
and the need for tailoring management arrangements in existing institutions to the
requirements of the PSIFP, this may not be a highly preferred option.

Institutional Structure – Option-3

GOB-PSIFP Bangladesh
&Steering Bank
Charter/
Capital/ Committee
Endowment
Contract

Management, Criteria, Fees


Agent banks
HOLDCO - HOLDCO-
BOARD FFU
Analysis and
Recommendations
Interface, Funds
Decisions Appraisal,
Monitoring
SUBCO/
PROJECT

The four parties involved in the Program, namely Government, Donor(s), HoldCo and the
Subsidiary Companies will be governed by the following legal relationships:

(a) The Government-HoldCo relationship. This relationship will be governed by an


Administration Agreement, which will enable the Holding Company to manage/administer
the "Fund" on behalf of the Government; while the technical aspects of the fund operation
will be handled through the FFU.

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

(b) The HoldCo-Subsidiary relationship. Once sub-projects have been approved for
financial support from the PSIFP, the necessary funds will be made available to the sub-
project borrowers by the HoldCo, on behalf of the Government/PSIFP, pursuant to
standard sub-loan documentation).

(c) The Government-Donor relationship. This will be subject to a standard Development


Credit Agreement.

The HoldCo-Subsidiary Company borrower; and the Government-Donor relationships are


well understood and would follow standard practice. The relationships among the parties
are illustrated in the diagram below.

PSIFP STRUCTURE and FRAMEWORK


Credit Agreement GOB-PSIFP
Donor
& SC

Administration
Agreement

Holding
Company
Decision Making
function
Audit
Committee
Administrative Management
function function
FFU
Fund
Operations

Subsidiary/
Sub-project
Borrowers

The overall supervision and implementation of the proposed Power Sector Investment
Funding Program will be done by a Steering Committee to be set up in the MPEMR. The
Steering Committee will provide strategic guide line to the Holding Company for
implementation of the Funding Program keeping in view the Government policy, road
map and sectoral development milestones. The Holding Company Board will devise

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Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

corporate policy and procedure for efficient utilization of the funding and in line with
that the Fund Facilitation Unit (FFU) of the HoldCo will conduct the operation of the
fund and funding but primarily on the basis of commercial criteria and sound analysis,
judgments and monitoring.

There will be an independent Audit Committee comprising of professorial auditors,


independent experts, representative of Comptroller & Auditor General of Bangladesh to
make thorough evaluation of the utilization of the fund.

The HoldCo Board could have sufficient representation from the Government and
constituted in a way so that it is empowered to make decisions without a need to refer the
recommendations to GOB for review and final approval. This is necessary to ensure that
decisions are not delayed and are taken only on the basis of commercial principles.

Proposed Financing Arrangements

Under the PSIDF, the Government will make available very large sums of money to
finance large power projects. It is important that adequate safeguards exist to ensure the
proper and efficient deployment of these funds. It is to be noted that the sub-projects
considered by the HoldCo for financing would have already been evaluated by the
Government during the Power Sector Program (PSP) development process. That is, on the
basis of ten year corporate investment plan entailing potential projects, the Power Sector
Program (PSP) will be developed and PSIFP will be designed with the one time but final
appraisal, programming and approval of the Finance Division/Ministry of Finance and the
Planning Commission under the concept of Sector Wide Management (SWM) as was done
in the case of Health and Population Sector Program (HPSP) for the five year period from
1997 to 2001. Thus candidate sub-projects would have received Government approval for
implementation, before the HoldCom is asked to make a determination on its suitability for
financing.

The proposed PSIFP amount will be made available to the HoldCo on a 10 year term, with
a 5 year grace period. The funds required for approved sub-projects will be made available
by the HoldCo to subsidiary companies at prevailing market rates of interest and on terms
of between 12-15 years maturity, with a maximum grace period of 5 years.

Repayment of principal and interest amounts on sub-loans will be made by the sub-project
borrowers to the HoldCo. Where foreign currency loans will be involved, payment will be
in Taka equivalents of the currency in which the loan was made and on the basis of the
exchange rate prevailing on the repayment date. In this way, the foreign exchange risk on
all sub-project loans will be borne by the HoldCo and will be paid into a “Collection
Account”. For the Donor assistance component, the interest element of such repayments
will consist of the service charge on bi-lateral or multi-lateral credit and the spread between
that service charge and the applicable sub-project lending rate. The principal and interest to
be applied in repayment of the Donor loan will be paid out from the Company’s
“Collection Account” into a Government account with the Bangladesh Bank, and repaid to
Donor as per normal practice. The balance of funds in the “Collection Account” less funds
required for the operational activities of the HoldCo, will be transferred to the Fund. Such
moneys will be administered by the HoldCo and will be made available for new sub-
I-10
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

projects in the same way as the original money supplied by the PSIFP was administered,
i.e., in accordance with the terms of the Administration Agreement. Thus the HoldCo will
not carry any loan funds on its books. It will not retain any earnings received in the form of
fees or transfers from the interest spread in excess of its own operational requirements and
would thus function on a no-profit basis.

The proposed structure for the PSIFP incorporates the following further safeguards. First,
the Board of the HoldCom will include both public and private sector representatives, and
independent experts. Second, all utilization of fund will be audited by an independent
Audit Committee. Third, it should be emphasized that on a case by case basis the PSIFP
will provide 80 to 90 percent of total financing package. A 10 to 20 percent of financing
will be provided by international and domestic commercial banks and other financiers
involved – all of who may be expected to carry out their own diligence – which will be as
thorough, if not more so than that of the FFU. Thus, projects that fail the market test of
financial viability will not come to fruition at all. Finally, the Fund Manger at the FFU will
be carefully selected and monitored by the Company and will be subjected to a
performance-based contract, which should also ensure that sub-projects are properly
structured and implemented so as to avoid any risk to the Government.

Views of Government and Relevant Agencies

On the proposed PSIFP some discussions were made with high officials of relevant
Ministries and agencies to gather views regarding the practicality and Government position
about the scheme. The general view has been found mixed, however, detailed description
of the nature and operation of the proposed PSIFP scheme and mechanism elicited mostly
positive views of the officials in those institutions. The brief account of the gathered view
comes as under.

The Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resource (MPEMR): Such proposal and
approach of Sector Wide Management (SWM) would be regarded new and thus would
require extensive analysis and trial phase of implementation before putting into for full-
fledged under the proposed 5 or 10 investment funding program. The proposal of
constituting a Steering Committee with strategic responsibility has received acceptance and
has been reiterated for two aspects: (a) balanced representation; and (b) regular
functioning, with some required technical assistance.

The Ministry of Finance (MOF): under recently introduced Medium-Term Budgetary


Framework (MTBF), some ministries have been allowed and provided assistance by the
Ministry of Finance to make budgetary allocation and give as well as fund release
following the Finance Ministry’s prescribed budgetary framework. Therefore, on a trial
basis, such proposal of PSIFP may come under the MTBF and good implementation
should be appreciated and highlighted.

Planning Commission (PC): Planning Commission in the past did approve such Sector
Wide Program, that is, for the health sector under a five year program named Health and
Population Sector Program (HPSP), and it was a single final approval by the Planning
Commission for a five financing outlay. It was a program instead of hundred specific
projects but the Ministry of Health and Family was mainly responsible for implementation
of the program (HPSP) through evaluation and approval of annual operational plan form
I-11
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
I: Proposed Sector Funding Modalities. . .

line designated line directors. The proposed PSIFP may be a program but should consist of
annual program to be reviewed and approved by the line ministry, here the Power Division
of the MPEMR.

I-12
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX J: CURRENT BPDB SUBSIDIARY IT SYSTEMS

A. West Zone Power Distribution Co. Ltd. (WZPDCL)

WDPDCL inherited a system of consolidated monthly report of selling and distribution


activities. The reports titled as ‘Commercial operation Statistics’ contain an executive
summary and detail analyses of zone/circle wise sales and distribution stations.

It contain information on sale, import of electricity, sale and system loss, Collection/Import
ratio, Collection/bill ratio, receivable, receivable by equivalent month. Information provided
in the report provides a good basis for performance monitoring and timely measures for
improvement. Spread sheet is used to prepare the consolidate report on commercial
operation and statistics Two of its officer ranks Asstt. Engineer level is entrusted to
monitor computerized billing activities performed by contractors.

West Zone is in the process of recruitment of programmer and Assistant Programmer.

West Zone floated a tender for integrated Information Management during year 2004
however the tender process was abandoned later at year 2005.

Recently they are developing a fresh requirement list for computerization of its activity.

Presently it uses Tally an off the shelve software at head office level for preparation of
Accounts. At fields office Accosting data’s are manually prepared.

Approximately 80% of Its consumer is covered under computerized billing. However it


process computerized billing at different location using software from different vendors few
of which have bill calculation and printing facility only.

It prepares commercial statements using spread sheet detailing import, sale, system loss,
receivable Collection/input ratio etc.

Reports on Accounts and Finance are prepared using spread sheet.

WZPDCL

SL No. Area of Work Present System

1. Non Financial Management information Manual


Reporting

2. Financial Management information Manual


Reporting

3. General Ledger Processing Use a S/W at head office level

J-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
J: Current BPDB Subsidiary IT Systems. . .

4. Budgeting Spread Sheet

5. Billing and Collection Use a rudimentary S/W in few


Division.

Using a standard Billing S/W in


few Division

6. Purchase and Creditor payment Manual


processing

7. Payroll Manual

8. Human Resource processing Manual

9. Asset Management Manual

10. SCADA Not Done

11. Maintenance Management Manual

12. Stock Management Manual

13. Job Costing Manual

14. Meter Management Manual

15. Load forecasting and system planning No Information Received

B. Power Grid Company Bangladesh (PGCB)

Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) Ltd is responsible for Transmission of


Electricity through National Grid.

PGCB maintains a SCADA system. Though this SCADA it supervises and control
transmission and analyses technical data.

PGCB has recently procured an off the shelve Software ‘Open sesame’ and maintain
General Ledger, Asset, Receivable management and supplier management.
Implementation of store management system using open Sesame is at initiation stage.

J-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
J: Current BPDB Subsidiary IT Systems. . .

Spread sheet based budget, payroll is maintained. They do not have any dedicated IT
manpower except a network engineer.

Maintain Manual Register at Grid Substation for recording and follow up of Maintenance.

Load dispatch center of PGCB collects and prepare daily generation data from all
generation plants under National Grid, data, includes fuel uses, load shedding, maximum
demand information etc. They prepare formatted report using spread sheet. The report
contains daily energy curve, daily load curve etc.

The Company is listed on the stock exchange and it prepares report as per the guideline
of Security and Exchange Commission.

PGCB also prepares reports on maximum and minimum voltage in some selected
substation.

PGCB’s main source of revenue is wheeling charge through its transmission line.

C. Electricity Generation Company Bangladesh Ltd. (EGCB)

Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh Ltd. (EGCB) has been formed as on out
come of Power Sector Reform.

Incorporated in February 2004, EGCB is expected to become a leading Electricity


Generation Company of Bangladesh. At present the Principle activity of EGCB is to
acquire Generation facilities and it will take same time to reach operation and
maintenance stage. It has already taken number of Major power projects and in the
process of investment for constructing those projects. EGCB is expected to take over a
210 MW Power Plant from BPDB from 1st January 2008, when it will reach revenue
earning phases.

At presents information system are not computerized, except it has introduced accounting
software ‘Nikash’ for general ledger.

It has not yet have any IT setup.

Reports on Accounts, Finance are prepared using Spread Sheet.

EGCB

SL No. Area of Work Present System

1. Non Financial Management information Manual


Reporting

2. Financial Management information Manual


Reporting

J-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
J: Current BPDB Subsidiary IT Systems. . .

3. General Ledger Processing Use ‘Nikash’ S/W

4. Budgeting Spread Sheet

5. Billing and Collection Not Done

6. Purchase and Creditor payment Manual


processing

7. Payroll Manual

8. Human Resource processing Manual

9. Asset Management Manual

10. CSADA Not available

11. Maintenance Management Manual

12. Stock Management Manual

13. Job Costing Manual

14. Meter Management Not dome

15. Load forecasting and system planning Not Done

D. Ashuganj Power Station Company Limited (APSCL)

APSCL operates as a subsidiary of BPDB. Recording and reporting system exists are
register based and manual, except it started using “Tally” an off the shelve accounting
software for preparation of accounts data i.e. General Ledger.

Recently in order to benefit from information technology it has recruited a Deputy Manager
entrusted to assess and priorities introduction of IT.

APSCL has started processing of official approval for computerization of its store
transaction and do a physical verification of stock.

Reports are prepared using spreadsheet main reports are on Daily Generation containing
Fuel use, auxiliary use, Type of Fuel, Energy export to grid.

J-4
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
J: Current BPDB Subsidiary IT Systems. . .

Prepare report on Generation performance by Plant on monthly basis, contains installed,


Net and gross energy generation. Total hour run since inception. Total hour run since last
overhauling. Fuel cost per unit of generation and other technical details.

APSCL

SL No. Area of Work Present System

1. Non Financial Management information Manual


Reporting

2. Financial Management information Spread Sheet Basis


Reporting

3. General Ledger Processing Use Tally S/W at head office level

4. Budgeting Spread Sheet

5. Billing and Collection Manual

6. Purchase and Creditor payment Manual


processing

7. Payroll Manual

8. Human Resource processing Manual

9. Asset Management Manual

10. SCADA Not available

11. Maintenance Management Manual

12. Stock Management Manual

13. Job Costing Manual

14. Meter Management Not done

15. Load forecasting and system planning Manual

J-5
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
APPENDIX K: SAMPLE MIS REPORTING FORMATS

Ashuganj Power Station Company Ltd (APSCL)

Monthly Report Month ………….


Gross G’tion Month Target % YTD Target %

MWh………………………………………………………………………

Export G’tion Month Target % YTD Target %

MWh………………………………………………………………………

Statio n Use Month Target % YTD Target %

MWh………………………………………………………………………...

Revenue Month Budget % YTD Budget %

MTk………………………………………………………………………

Operating Expenses Month Budget % YTD Budget %

MTk………………………………………………………………………

Billed outstanding Month Target % YTD Target %

MTk……………………………………………………………………….

Plant Load Factor Month Target % YTD Target %

%................................................................................................

Availability Month Target % YTD Target %

%…………………………………………………………………………

Planned outage Month Target % YTD Target %

Hours……………………………………………………………………….

Unplanned outage Month Target % YTD Target %

Hours………………………………………………………………………….

No of Employees YTD Target %

No.……………………………………………………………………….

Net GWh/employee Month Target % YTD Target %

GWh………………………………………………………………………….

K-1
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
K: Sample MIS Reporting Formats. . .

Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd

Monthly Report Month ………….

Energy Imported Month Target % YTD Target %

MKWh……………………………………………………………………

Energy Exported Month Target % YTD Target %

MKWh……………………………………………………………………

Transmission Loss Month Target % YTD Target %

MKWh……………………………………………………………….......

Revenue Month Budget % YTD Budget %

MTk ……………………………………………………………………….

Operating Expenses Month Budget % YTD Budget %

MTk ……………………………………………………………………

Billed outstanding Month Target % YTD Target %

MTk ..............................................................................................

SAIDI & SAIFI Month Target % YTD Target %

Hours/No…………………………………………………………………….

No of Employees YTD Target %

No …………………………………………………………………

Circuit-km per employee YTD Target %

Circuit-km/empl………………………………………………………

Transformer MVA per employee YTD Target %

MVA/empl.…………………………………………………………………

K-2
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08
K: Sample MIS Reporting Formats. . .

West Zone Monthly Report Month ………….

Revenue Month Budget % YTD Budget %

MTk …………………………………………………………………

Operating Expenses Month Budget % YTD Budget %

MTk …………………………………………………………………

Distribution &
Commercial Loss Month Target % YTD Target %

% …………………………………………………………………

Collection ratio Month Target % YTD Target %

% …………………………………………………………………

Billed Outstanding Month Target % YTD Target %

MTk …………………………………………………………………

SAIDI & SAIFI Month Target % YTD Target %

Hours/No…………………………………………………………………

New Connects Month Target % YTD Target %

No …………………………………………………………………

Connects Waiting Month Target % YTD Target %

No …………………………………………………………………

Employees YTD Target %

No …………………………………………………………………

Consumers/
Employees Month Target % YTD Target %

No …………………………………………………………………

K-3
Government of Bangladesh / ADB 1/8/08

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