Bangladesh is planning to build its largest-ever solar power plant at Rampal in Bagerhat, on land originally earmarked for a coal-fired project, signaling a major shift towards renewable energy.
The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) has proposed a 442MW (peak DC) grid-connected solar PV plant at an estimated cost of Tk2,502 crore. The project, subject to approval, is expected to be completed by December 2029.
The plant will occupy about 685 acres of already developed BPDB-owned land at Rampal, avoiding the need for new land acquisition.
It will connect to the national grid through a new 230kV transmission system linked to the nearby Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company substation.
The project is intended to reduce Bangladesh’s dependence on imported gas, oil and coal, lower carbon emissions and strengthen long-term energy security. It will also support the government’s target of raising renewable energy’s share to 20% by 2030.
