The University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched a major initiative to expand rooftop solar power generation across Bangladesh’s public universities, aiming to reduce electricity costs and promote clean energy through private sector investment.
According to a UGC press release, the initiative was discussed at a review meeting on rooftop solar power installations held at the Commission recently.
Under the first phase of the program, around 60 MW of rooftop solar capacity is planned for 31 public universities through an Operational Expenditure (OPEX) model, under which private investors will finance, install, operate and maintain the solar systems.
UGC said feasibility studies have already been completed at 47 public universities and one international university.
The assessment identified the potential to generate 52.5 MW of rooftop solar power at 31 public universities, with the capacity expected to increase to nearly 60 MW through future infrastructure expansion.
The Commission noted that while the current cost of solar electricity generation is around Tk 15 per unit, the OPEX model could reduce the cost by more than half.
