Dhaka, Jan. 29 -- Parliament has codified the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (Amendment) Bill 2022, which will give the executive discretionary powers to change electricity and energy prices whenever necessary.

The bill is already in effect as an ordinance in this regard was promulgated on Dec 1 last year.

The necessity for amending the existing law was felt when the government's move to raise fuel prices in August last year was challenged in the higher courts.

Only the Energy Regulatory Commission, or BERC, had the powers to adjust energy prices following a process set by the law.

BERC, an autonomous institution of the state, protocol dictates that it must consult with stakeholders at open public hearings before adjusting el...