Substation cost in Bangladesh: what you pay for
Two substation quotes for the same kVA can differ by lakhs of taka. Usually it's because they don't include the same things. Here is every line item, what it covers and what makes it vary.
Cost line items
| Item | What it covers | What makes it vary |
|---|---|---|
| Transformer | The transformer, delivered, with test certificate | kVA, copper or aluminium, losses, brand, warranty |
| HT switchgear | VCB or RMU, protection relays, HT metering | VCB vs RMU, brand, indoor or outdoor type |
| LT panel | PCC/MDB with main breaker and feeders | Number of feeders, breaker brand, busbar rating |
| Cables | HT and LT cables, glands, lugs, terminations | Distance, cable size, copper price |
| Room / civil | Plinth or room, fence, trench, oil soak pit | New room or existing space, site access |
| Earthing | Earth pits, strips, testing | Soil type, number of pits, lightning protection |
| Approval fees | OCEI approval and utility charges | Utility, load, connection type |
| Commissioning | Tests, inspection support, energising | Test scope and documentation |
Why quotes differ by lakhs
- One quote is transformer-only, the other is installed and approved
- Aluminium winding priced against copper
- VCB in one quote, drop-out fuse in the other
- Cable sizes or lengths cut short to look cheaper
- Civil work, earthing or approval fees left out and billed later
- No test certificate or warranty terms
Quote-comparison checklist
Print this list and tick it against every quote you receive. If a quote can't answer a line, ask the contractor before you sign.
Open the checklistHow long it takes
The timeline depends on equipment lead time, civil work and the approval process. Your written quote includes a dated schedule.
Frequently asked questions
What does a substation cost?
It depends on kVA, the HT switchgear type, cable lengths, civil work and approvals. Use the line items on this page to compare quotes, and ask us for a written quote after a free survey.
Is civil work included in a substation package?
Not always. Some quotes leave out the room, plinth, trench or oil soak pit and bill them later. Check the civil line in every quote.
Why is one quote so much cheaper than another?
Usually because it leaves something out: approvals, earthing, civil work or the right cable size. Use our checklist to compare like with like.