Energy experts and civil society leaders have called on the government to undertake urgent policy reforms—including reducing import duties on solar equipment, streamlining investment procedures, and reallocating fossil-fuel subsidies—to help Bangladesh achieve its target of generating 10,000 megawatts of solar power by 2030.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Jatiya Press Club recently, participants described the target as ambitious but achievable. However, they warned that bureaucratic delays, high tariffs, and insufficient grid modernization remain major barriers to a timely shift away from imported fossil fuels.
The event was jointly organized by ActionAid Bangladesh, Bangladesh Sustainable and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA) and Just Energy Transition Network Bangladesh.
Energy expert Prof Ijaz Hossain emphasized that integrating 10,000 MW of solar capacity into the national grid could significantly reduce Bangladesh’s reliance on costly LNG and coal imports.
“Solar power is no longer an alternative—it is set to become the backbone of Bangladesh’s energy system,” he said, stressing the importance of Energy Storage Systems to ensure stable supply and utilize excess daytime generation at night.
Shafiqul Alam of the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis highlighted the untapped potential of rooftop solar installations, particularly across garment factories and large industrial facilities.
He noted that stronger net metering policies could incentivize private investment, reduce production costs, and ease pressure on public finances.
