As the world confronts the harsh realities of climate change, energy crisis, and environmental degradation, Bangladesh is increasingly turning its focus towards renewable energy to ensure a cleaner and more sustainable future. Being one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, the necessity of adopting renewable energy sources is not just an option for Bangladesh but a strategic necessity. This article explores Bangladesh’s ongoing journey in the renewable energy sector, the challenges faced, the initiatives taken, and the opportunities ahead.

 

 

The Need for Renewable Energy in Bangladesh

Bangladesh, with a population of over 170million and limited natural resources, faces immense pressure on its energy infrastructure. The demand for electricity has been growing rapidly due to industrial expansion, urbanisation, and rising living standards. Traditionally, the country has

depended heavily on fossil fuels such as natural gas, coal, and imported oil to meet its energy demands. This dependency has raised concerns related to energy security, environmental

pollution, and long-term sustainability.

The country’sper capita carbon emissions remain low in global terms, but the overallcarbon footprint is increasing with the growthin energy demand.Moreover, natural gas reserves are

depleting, while the costs of importing oil and coal continue to rise, straining the national budget.

Given these factors, renewable energy presents itselfas a vital alternative that not only ensures

sustainable development but also alignswith Bangladesh’s commitments to international climate goals.

 

 

Government Policy and Strategic Framework

Recognising the importance of renewable energy,the Government of Bangladesh has taken several policy measures to promote its development. The “Renewable Energy Policy of

Bangladesh,” firstintroduced in 2008 and laterupdated, set ambitious targets to generate10% of total electricity from renewable sources by 2020. Although this target was not fully met, it laid

the foundation for future action.

Under the “Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan,” Bangladesh aims to transition from climate vulnerability to climate prosperity by investing in green energy, infrastructure, and innovation. The Power Divisionand Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) have been working closely to attract investments and implement renewable energy projects across the country.

The 8th Five-Year Plan and Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 also place significant emphasison clean energy as part of sustainable economic growth and environmental protection. These strategic frameworks have provided guidance for both public and private sectors to explore renewable

options more seriously.

 

 

Major Renewable Energy Sources

Bangladesh’s renewable energy landscape primarily includes solar, wind, biogas, and hydropower.

1. Solar Energy: Solar energy is currently the most prominent source of renewable energy in Bangladesh. The country benefits from ample sunshine throughout the year, making solar power a practical and scalable solution.

Solar Home Systems (SHS): One of the most successful programs has been the Solar Home System initiative, led by Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL). More than 6 million solar home systems have been installed in rural areas, benefiting over 20 million people who were previously without electricity.

Solar Mini-Grids and Irrigation: Solar mini-grids have been set up in remote islands and off- grid areas, while solar-powered irrigation pumps are helping farmers reduce dependency on

diesel.

Rooftop Solar: Industrial and commercial buildings are being encouraged to adopt rooftop solar systems to reduce their energy bills and ease pressure on the national grid.

1. Wind Energy: Although wind energy has not yet been fully exploited, there is potential in coastal areas like Cox’s Bazar, Khulna, and coastal islands. Wind mapping projects have identified some high- wind zones, and pilot projects are currently underway to assess feasibility.
2. Biogas and Biomass: With a large rural population involved in agriculture and livestock, Bangladesh has significant potential for biogas and biomass energy. Biogas plants are being used in households, poultry farms, and dairy farms to generate electricity and cooking gas. IDCOL has been actively supporting the installation of small-scale biogas plants. Additionally,

biomass energy from agricultural residues and waste offers opportunities for cleaner rural energy solutions.

Hydropower: Hydropower potential in Bangladesh is relatively limited due to the flat terrain. However, the existing Kaptai Hydroelectric Power Station remains the primary source of hydropower,

generating about 230 MW. Micro-hydro projects in hilly regions like Chittagong Hill Tracts are also being explored.

 

 

Key Challenges

Despite the progress made, several challenges continue to hinder the large-scale adoption of renewable energy in Bangladesh:

High Initial Costs: Renewable energy technologies often involve significant upfront investment. Without adequate financial incentives and subsidies, many private investors remain hesitant.

Lack of Technical Expertise: The sector still lacks enough trained professionals and technical knowledge required to design, install, and maintain renewable systems.

Policy Gaps and Bureaucratic Delays: While there are policies in place, inconsistent

implementation, bureaucratic hurdles, and regulatory uncertainty deter many potential investors.

Land Availability: Solar and wind projects require large tracts of land, which is difficult to secure in densely populated Bangladesh.

Grid Integration: The existing power grid is not fully equipped to handle the variable nature of renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind.

Public Awareness: Many citizens, especially in rural areas, remain unaware of the benefits and uses of renewable energy technologies. Education and outreach programs are needed.

 

 

Opportunities and the Way Forward

Despite these challenges, the opportunities for renewable energydevelopment in Bangladesh are vast and growing. With the right mix of policy support, investment, and innovation, the country can significantly scale up its renewable energy capacity.

Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging partnerships between government and private sector can mobilise resources and expertise. Incentivising investment through tax benefits, feed-in tariffs, and guaranteed purchase agreements can attract more players.

Technology Transfer and Innovation: Collaborating with international organisations and countries with advanced renewable technologies can help Bangladesh developlocal capacity.

Green Financing: Financial institutions should be encouraged to create green financing

instruments for renewable projects. IDCOL’s role as a financial intermediary can be further strengthened to disburse loans at lower interest rates.

CapacityBuilding: Investing in education and vocational trainingrelated to renewable energy can produce a skilled workforce to support the industry.

Smart Grid Development: Upgrading the nationalgrid to a smart, responsive system will enable better integration of distributed renewable energy sources.

CommunityInvolvement: Engaging localcommunities in planningand managing renewable energy projects can ensure sustainability and create a sense of ownership.

Incentives for Rooftopand Off-grid Solutions: Promoting off-grid solutionsin remote areas and offering rooftop solar incentives in urban areas can decentralise energy access and reduce pressure on national infrastructure.

 

 

Success Stories

GrameenShakti: This socialenterprise has playeda pioneering role in solarelectrification in rural Bangladesh, installing over a million solar home systems.

IDCOL Programs: With support from international donors, IDCOL’s renewable energy programs have made significant contributions to rural electrification and green technology dissemination.

PrivateSector Initiatives: Several private companies have begun investing in utility-scale solar parks, especially in the northern and southwestern parts of the country.

Local Government Engagement: In districts like Thakurgaon and Pabna, district

administrations are experimenting with clean energy use in public offices and schools.

 

Global Commitments and Climate Goals

Bangladesh is a signatory to the Paris Agreement and has submitted its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reduce carbon emissions. Transitioning to renewable energy is a central part of fulfilling these commitments. The country has pledged to generate 40% of its power from clean energy sources by 2041, a target that will require massive investment and systemic transformation.

Participation in international forums, cooperation with donor agencies, and access to global climate funds such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) will be crucial to financing this transition. Moreover, aligning energy policies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will ensure a holistic and inclusive development path.

 

 

Bangladesh stands at a critical juncturein its energy journey. Whilefossil fuels still dominate the energy mix, the growing recognition of environmental challenges and the depletion of non- renewable resourcesare pushing the country towardsa cleaner and greener future.With abundant solar potential, a young and dynamic population, and increasing global support, Bangladesh has the tools to become a regional leaderin renewable energy.

However, successwill depend on how effectively the country can overcome the existing barriers, mobilise investments, and ensure inclusive participation. The path to renewable energy is not without difficulties, but it is a necessary step towards energysecurity, environmental

sustainability, and climate resilience. The journey may be long, but with firm commitment and strategic action, a greener Bangladesh is not just a dream, but a very achievable reality.